CONTENTS
Vegetable Stew Sataraš
(Croatian: Sataraš)
Sataraš is a simple yet flavourful vegetable stew originating from Baranja, a region in eastern Croatia. Known for its versatility, this dish is enjoyed across Croatia and beyond. Its basic ingredients – onion, peppers, and tomatoes – can be adapted with seasonal or available produce, such as zucchini, eggplant, or beans, making it a staple for zero-waste cooking. Often served as a side dish alongside meats or as a vegetarian main with rice, mashed potatoes, or polenta, Sataraš is a nostalgic reminder of summer kitchens and family traditions. Whether eaten warm or cold, it is a dish that perfectly balances simplicity and deliciousness.
Ingredients
Serves 4
- 500 g peppers
- 500 g tomatoes
- 1 large onion
- 5 tablespoons oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: other spices or herbs (e.g., basil, paprika, chilli flakes, or mint)
Instructions
Preparation time: 40 minutes
- Prepare the vegetables: Peel and finely chop the onion. Wash the peppers, remove the seeds, and dice them. Wash the tomatoes and cut them into small pieces.
- Cook the onion: Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent.
- Add the peppers: Stir the diced peppers into the pot, sprinkle with salt, and cover with a lid. Allow the mixture to simmer gently. If the vegetables start to stick, add a splash of water.
- Add the tomatoes: Once the peppers have softened, add the diced tomatoes. Stir well, and allow the mixture to simmer. The tomatoes will release their juices, creating a rich base for the stew.
- Season and finish: Add black pepper and any desired spices or herbs. Continue to simmer on low heat until all the vegetables are tender and the flavours have melded together.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve warm or cold. Sataraš can be enjoyed as a side dish or a main meal when paired with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
- Serving suggestions: Sataraš pairs beautifully with a range of sides, such as polenta, rice, couscous, or freshly baked bread. For a heartier variation, crack eggs into the simmering stew, cover, and cook until the whites are set. Alternatively, use Sataraš as a stuffing for zucchini or eggplant, top with cheese, and bake for a comforting dish.
ZERO WASTE TIPS
- Use overripe tomatoes: Slightly soft or overripe tomatoes work perfectly in Sataraš, reducing food waste while enhancing flavour.
- Repurpose leftovers: Leftover Sataraš can be stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for longer storage. Use it as a pasta sauce, pizza topping, or filling for stuffed vegetables.
- Save pepper scraps: Finely chop any leftover pepper tops or stems to add to stocks or other vegetable dishes.
- Incorporate rice: Add a handful of cooked rice to the stew to absorb extra liquid and create a heartier meal.
- Make a winter stash: Preserve Sataraš by canning it in sterilised jars, ensuring you have a taste of summer ready to enjoy year-round.
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