Are you tired of the same old boring vegan recipes that lack excitement and flavor? Prepare to be amazed by this incredible Israeli Wheat Berry Stew that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of the Middle East! Packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with hearty, nutritious goodness, this plant-based wonder is about to become your new favorite comfort food. Get ready to impress your friends, family, and even yourself with a dish that proves vegan cooking can be both incredibly delicious and deeply satisfying.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup wheat berries, rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the wheat berries under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer. This helps to remove any dirt or debris. Set aside to drain.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the diced carrots and celery to the pot. Stir well and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
- Stir in the rinsed wheat berries, ensuring they are well combined with the sautéed vegetables. Cook for another 2 minutes to toast the wheat berries lightly.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the thyme. Stir to combine all the ingredients. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the wheat berries are tender but still chewy.
- After the cooking time is complete, check the stew for seasoning. Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference.
- If the stew is too thick, you can add a little more vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Once seasoned, remove the pot from heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the Israeli Wheat Berry Stew hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your hearty and nutritious vegan meal!
Tips
- Rinse your wheat berries thoroughly to remove any excess starch and potential debris.
- Toast the wheat berries lightly before adding liquid to enhance their nutty flavor.
- Use high-quality vegetable broth for maximum flavor depth.
- Don't rush the cooking process - slow simmering is key to developing rich, complex tastes.
- If you prefer a softer texture, you can extend the cooking time by 10-15 minutes.
- For added protein, consider stirring in some cooked chickpeas or lentils near the end of cooking.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro make an excellent garnish and add a bright, fresh note.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and often taste even better the next day!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 118kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg