Description of this recipe
This hearty Somerset Stew with Cheddar & Parsley Mash is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a chilly evening. It combines a rich, vegetable-based stew with the savory goodness of cheddar and parsley infused mashed potatoes. The addition of cider lends a unique depth of flavor, while the option to include sausage provides a protein boost. It’s a delightful way to enjoy seasonal vegetables and create a satisfying, wholesome meal.
Why you will love this recipe
You’ll adore this Somerset Stew because it’s incredibly versatile, packed with nutrients, and bursting with flavor. The cheddar and parsley mash adds a unique twist to the classic stew and mash combination, making it a standout dish. The recipe is easy to customize; you can adjust the vegetables, use different types of beans, or omit the sausage for a vegetarian option. The cider infuses a subtle sweetness and tang, elevating the overall taste profile. Most importantly, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and satisfying, perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Introduction
In the heart of Somerset, England, where rolling hills meet cider orchards, lies the inspiration for this rustic and heartwarming stew. The Somerset Stew with Cheddar & Parsley Mash captures the essence of the region’s culinary heritage, blending wholesome vegetables, aromatic herbs, and the distinctive tang of local cider. This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience, a journey back to simpler times when food was celebrated for its natural flavors and nourishing qualities.
The stew itself is a symphony of textures and tastes. The sweetness of carrots, the pungency of garlic, the subtle bite of leeks, and the robust flavors of thyme and tomatoes all come together to create a rich and complex base. The addition of butter beans and flageolet beans not only adds creaminess and heartiness but also provides a substantial source of plant-based protein.
What truly sets this dish apart, however, is the Cheddar & Parsley Mash. Instead of plain mashed potatoes, this recipe elevates the humble side dish by incorporating sharp cheddar cheese and fresh parsley. The result is a creamy, cheesy, and herby delight that perfectly complements the savory stew. The mash offers a comforting and flavorful contrast to the stew’s robust flavors, creating a harmonious balance on the palate.
For those who enjoy a bit of meat, the optional addition of sausage provides an extra layer of richness and flavor. Crispy browned sausage chunks add a delightful textural contrast to the soft vegetables and creamy beans. Whether you choose to include sausage or not, this Somerset Stew with Cheddar & Parsley Mash is a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients and comforting flavors.
This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to suit your dietary needs and preferences. Substitute different vegetables based on what’s in season, use different types of beans, or omit the cider for a completely alcohol-free version. The possibilities are endless, and the results are always satisfying. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and prepare to embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Somerset.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, finely chopped
- 1 large carrot, finely chopped
- 1 leek, chopped
- 1 tbsp tomato purée
- 400g can chopped tomatoes
- 200g can butter beans, drained
- 400g can flageolet beans, rinsed and drained
- 200ml dry cider, or additional vegetable stock
- 250ml vegetable stock
- Few sprigs thyme, leaves only
- Cheddar & Parsley Mash (see recipe below)
- 2 sausages (optional)
- 1 tsp olive oil per portion (if using sausages)
Cheddar & Parsley Mash Ingredients:
- 850g potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- Salt
- Splash of milk
- 25g butter
- 75g extra-mature grated cheddar
- Handful of chopped parsley
- Seasoning (salt and pepper)
Preparation:
Cheddar & Parsley Mash:
Step 1: Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold, salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Step 2: Drain the potatoes thoroughly using a colander. Return the drained potatoes to the pot and let them steam for a minute or two to remove any excess moisture.
Step 3: Add a splash of milk and the butter to the potatoes. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher until they are smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Stir in the grated cheddar cheese and chopped parsley. Mix well until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed throughout the mash. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: For a golden and crisp finish, preheat your grill. Transfer the mash to a heatproof dish and dot the top with a few small pieces of butter. Place the dish under the grill for a few minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Somerset Stew:
Step 1: Heat the oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and leek. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened but not browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Stir in the tomato purée and cook for another minute, allowing it to caramelize slightly and deepen the flavor.
Step 3: Add the chopped tomatoes, drained butter beans, rinsed and drained flageolet beans, dry cider (if using), and vegetable stock to the pan. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4: Add the thyme leaves. Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, or until the stew has thickened and the vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: If adding sausages, snip each sausage into 3-4 chunks. Heat the olive oil in a separate frying pan over medium heat. Add the sausage chunks and brown them on all sides, about 5 minutes.
Step 6: Stir the browned sausage chunks into the stew and gently simmer for the remaining cooking time, about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If not adding sausage skip to serving.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Somerset Stew hot, with a generous helping of Cheddar & Parsley Mash on top.
- Garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme or a sprinkle of chopped parsley for added freshness.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful stew.
- Accompany with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
- For a heartier meal, serve with a side of roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or butternut squash.
Tips:
- For a vegetarian option, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth.
- If you don’t have dry cider, you can substitute with additional vegetable stock or a splash of apple cider vinegar for a similar tang.
- To make the stew ahead of time, prepare it up to the simmering stage and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.
- The Cheddar & Parsley Mash can also be made ahead of time and reheated in the microwave or oven.
- Add other vegetables to the stew such as parsnips, celery, or sweet potatoes, based on your preferences and what’s in season.
Prep Time: 25 minutes Cook Time: 40 minutes Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Per Serving, without sausage)
- Calories: Approximately 450
- Protein: 18g
- Sodium: 600mg
Conclusion
The Somerset Stew with Cheddar & Parsley Mash is a delightful and satisfying dish that brings together the best of British flavors. It’s a comforting and wholesome meal that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family. The combination of the rich, vegetable-based stew and the creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes is a match made in culinary heaven. The recipe is easy to customize, so you can adapt it to suit your own tastes and preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find this recipe to be a rewarding and delicious experience. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the flavors of Somerset in your own home.
Q&A:
Q1: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A1: Absolutely! This recipe is easily adaptable to a vegetarian diet. Simply omit the sausage from the recipe and ensure you’re using a vegetable-based stock. The stew is already packed with vegetables and beans, providing plenty of protein and nutrients. You can also add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini to enhance the flavors and textures. The Cheddar & Parsley Mash is already vegetarian-friendly, so no changes are needed there.
Q2: What kind of cider should I use for this recipe?
A2: A dry cider is best for this recipe, as it adds a subtle tang and sweetness without overpowering the other flavors. Look for a cider that is not too sweet or fruity. If you can’t find dry cider, you can substitute with additional vegetable stock or a splash of apple cider vinegar to achieve a similar flavor profile. The key is to balance the sweetness and acidity of the stew to create a harmonious blend of flavors.
Q3: Can I make this stew ahead of time?
A3: Yes, you can definitely make the stew ahead of time. In fact, the flavors often meld together and improve after a day or two in the refrigerator. Prepare the stew up to the simmering stage, then allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the stew gently over medium heat until heated through. The Cheddar & Parsley Mash can also be made ahead of time and reheated in the microwave or oven.
Q4: Can I freeze this stew for later?
A4: Yes, this stew freezes well. Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Be sure to leave some headspace in the containers, as the stew will expand slightly as it freezes. The stew can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the stew in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it gently over medium heat until heated through. The texture of the potatoes in the stew might change slightly after freezing, but the flavor will remain delicious. Freezing the Cheddar & Parsley Mash is not recommended, as it can become watery and lose its creamy texture.
Q5: What other vegetables can I add to this stew?
A5: This stew is incredibly versatile, and you can add a variety of vegetables based on your preferences and what’s in season. Some great additions include parsnips, celery, sweet potatoes, mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. Root vegetables like parsnips and sweet potatoes add sweetness and heartiness, while mushrooms and zucchini contribute to the savory depth of the stew. Bell peppers add a pop of color and a slightly sweet flavor. Feel free to experiment with different combinations to create your own unique version of this Somerset Stew. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, depending on the type and size of the vegetables you’re adding.
