Creamy Mediterranean Root Vegetable Stew (vegan & plant-based)

This meal-in-a-bowl stew is a looker! Not just a pretty face, though, it is indescribably delicious–a little sweet and a little tangy–and the garnishes take it straight over the top. If you haven’t tried tamarind syrup, now may be the time. It is available at international food markets or online. But, if you don’t have any or can’t locate it, the stew is still one-of-a-kind.

Creamy Mediterranean Root Vegetable Stew (vegan & plant-based)

Yield: 4-6 servings

1 small yellow onion, diced or slivered
1/3 cup diced carrot
1/3 cup diced celery
1/2 red bell pepper, diced or slivered
1/2 green bell pepper, diced ir slivered
1/8 teaspoon each sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
3 large cloves garlic, minced
2.5 ounces baby kale
1-10 ounce package frozen riced cauliflower, cooked according to package directions (I microwave)
1-12 ounce package frozen root vegetables: carrots, beets, parsnips, sweet potatoes (I use Hanover brand frozen root vegetables for an air fryer, but cooked them in the microwave, as alternatively directed)
1-14.5 ounce can fire-roasted tomatoes
1 large bay leaf
1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground tumeric
2 cups vegetable stock (I use a roasted garlic paste + 2 cups water)
1-15 ounce can lite coconut milk
8 to 10 ounces hummus, plain or flavored (I use Ithica brand Lemon Garlic)
Optional garnishes: crumbled vegan feta (I love Follow Your Heart), coarsely chopped roasted and lightly salted pistachios, finely chopped parsley, tamarind syrup

In large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium. Add onion, carrot, celery, bell pepper, salt, and pepper, and saute, stirring frequently, until softened, about 3 or so minutes. Add garlic and saute, stirring, for about 30 seconds. Add all remaining ingredients, except garnishes, stir well to combine, and bring to a gentle simmer for about 20 minutes to allow flavors to marry. Adjust heat as necessary throughout, stirring occasionally. Serve warm, garnished as desired, in big bowls.