Name: Easy Vegetable Stew Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 yellow onion, diced; 1 cup sliced carrot; 1 cup sliced celery; 16 oz. baby Bella mushrooms, halved; 16 oz. baby yellow potatoes, halved; 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; 2 teaspoons dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon dried sage; 2 bay leaves; Kosher salt, to taste; Fresh cracked pepper, to taste; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons flour; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 (14.5 oz.) can tomato sauce; 3 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup uncooked split red lentils

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 70 reviews

If you’ve ever wanted a soul-warming, hearty meal that’s bursting with garden-fresh flavors and super simple to prepare, this Easy Vegetable Stew Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s loaded with wholesome ingredients like baby yellow potatoes, tender mushrooms, and vibrant carrots, all gently simmered in a rich, tomato-forward broth that’s been brightened with balsamic vinegar and deepened with soy sauce. Whether you’re cooking to cozy up on a chilly evening or aiming to satisfy your comfort-food cravings with a healthy twist, this stew feels like a warm hug in a bowl every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several white bowls and glass containers arranged on a white marbled surface. In the top left, there is a small white bowl with pale yellow olive oil, and next to it is another bowl with light beige garlic slices and dried herbs. Below is a bowl with small round potatoes that have a light brown skin. To the right of the potatoes is a large white bowl divided into three sections with chopped orange carrots, white onion, and light green celery. Below this is a bowl filled with brown mushrooms, some whole and some sliced. Above the mushrooms, a bowl is filled with small orange lentils. To the right of the lentils, two glass containers hold dark soy sauce with balsamic vinegar and a lighter brown broth. At the bottom right of the image, a glass container holds deep red tomato sauce. Each ingredient is clearly separated and visible, creating a neat and colorful layout. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this stew plays an essential role in crafting its comforting texture and flavor. The combination is simple yet thoughtfully balanced to give you a colorful, aromatic dish that’s both filling and nourishing.

3 tablespoons olive oil: This is your flavorful base for sautéing and will help develop a beautiful richness.
1 yellow onion, diced: Adds a natural sweetness that mellows during cooking for a savory backbone.
1 cup sliced carrot: Brings subtle sweetness and vibrant color to brighten the stew.
1 cup sliced celery: Provides a delicate crunch and fresh herbal notes.
16 oz. baby Bella mushrooms, halved: Their earthy depth makes the stew hearty and satisfying.
6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced: Infuses a fragrant, savory punch that wakes up every bite.
2 teaspoons dried thyme: This classic herb adds an aromatic hint of woodsy warmth.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a slightly peppery touch that enhances the tomato base.
1/2 teaspoon dried sage: Brings a subtle earthiness that balances the other herbs.
2 tablespoons flour: Helps thicken the stew for a luxuriously rich texture.
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar: Adds a tangy sweetness that brightens the entire stew.
2 tablespoons soy sauce: Deepens umami notes and lends a savory saltiness.
16 oz. baby yellow potatoes, halved: The heart of the stew that gives each spoonful a satisfying bite.
1 cup uncooked split red lentils: These add body and creaminess as they cook down.
1 (14.5 oz.) can tomato sauce: The rich, luscious base that holds all the flavors together.
3 cups vegetable broth: Provides moisture and a mild savory note, perfect for simmering.
2 bay leaves: Impart subtle herbal depth as the stew simmers gently.
Kosher salt: Enhances all the ingredients and brings the flavors to life.
Fresh cracked pepper: Adds a bit of spice and complexity.

How to Make Easy Vegetable Stew Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables

Begin by heating your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrot, and celery along with a couple pinches of salt and pepper. Cooking these vegetables slowly for about 8 minutes will coax out their natural sweetness and soften them just enough to build a rich flavor base for your stew.

Step 2: Add Mushrooms and Herbs

Next, invite the baby Bella mushrooms and sliced garlic into the pot with dried thyme, oregano, sage, more salt, and freshly cracked pepper. Stir frequently for 3 to 4 minutes until the mushrooms start releasing their earthy juices and everything becomes wonderfully aromatic.

Step 3: Incorporate the Flour and Deglaze

Sprinkle the flour evenly over the vegetables and stir to coat everything well, cooking for about a minute. This step is crucial because it helps thicken the stew later. Then pour in the balsamic vinegar and soy sauce, using your spoon to scrape up any caramelized bits from the bottom of the pot — these add irresistible depth to the flavor.

Step 4: Add Potatoes, Lentils, and Liquids

Add the halved baby yellow potatoes, uncooked split red lentils, tomato sauce, vegetable broth, and bay leaves to the pot. Season with a couple more pinches of salt and pepper. Bring everything up to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to keep the lentils from sticking and burning.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let your stew cook gently for 10 to 15 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender. The lentils will soften and slightly thicken the broth. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed to perfectly balance those savory, tangy, and earthy flavors.

How to Serve Easy Vegetable Stew Recipe

The image shows a white pot filled with a thick brown stew. The stew has many visible ingredients like sliced mushrooms, round slices of carrot, green herbs, and chunks of potato. The sauce looks rich and smooth with a slightly shiny texture. On top, fresh chopped green herbs are sprinkled for garnish. A wooden spoon is resting inside the pot, partially covered by the stew. The pot sits on a white marbled surface with a small white bowl of chopped green herbs above it. A black and white striped cloth is under the pot handle on the right side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a vibrant burst of color and a fresh, herbaceous note that contrasts beautifully with the rich stew. You can also try a dollop of plain yogurt or a drizzle of good olive oil for extra creaminess if you like.

Side Dishes

This vegetable stew pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, crusty bread for dipping, or even fluffy rice. Any side that soaks up the luscious broth and adds a comforting texture will make your meal feel complete.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the stew in hollowed-out bread bowls straight from the oven. You can also top your bowl with crunchy toasted nuts or seeds for a surprise crunch, or add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the rich stew before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making each subsequent meal even more delicious.

Freezing

This Easy Vegetable Stew Recipe freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and keep it frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave a little space as the stew may thicken once frozen.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy leftovers, gently reheat the stew on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of vegetable broth or water if it seems too thick. Microwave reheating also works but stir halfway through to ensure even warming.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Absolutely! While baby yellow potatoes are great for their tender texture, you can substitute with red potatoes or Yukon golds. Just keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly depending on the potato chosen.

Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?

This Easy Vegetable Stew Recipe is naturally vegan. To make it gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening.

What can I add to make it spicier?

Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes during cooking or sprinkle some on top when serving if you like a bit of heat. Adding spices like smoked paprika or cumin can also warm up the flavor profile without overpowering the vegetables.

Can I prepare this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes! Start by sautéing the aromatics and mushrooms on the stove as described, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes and lentils are tender.

How do I adjust the thickness of the stew?

If you’d like a thicker stew, simply let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid. To thin it out, add more vegetable broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Vegetable Stew Recipe is truly a kitchen superstar—simple to make, filled with nourishing ingredients, and totally comforting. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty meal to share, this recipe never disappoints. So grab your pot, gather those fresh ingredients, and treat yourself to a bowl of pure deliciousness. I promise you’ll keep coming back for more!