Chilean Tomato Stew (Estofado de Tomate)
Chilean Tomato Stew in 45 minutes! This easy vegetarian dish features fresh tomatoes and vibrant veggies. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights!

- about chilean tomato stew (estofado de tomate)
- secrets behind perfect chilean tomato stew
- why you'll love this version
- health & nutrition highlights
- recipe at a glance
- master ingredient list
- expert cooking method
- master chef's advice
- perfect presentation
- storage & make - ahead
- creative variations
- expert faq solutions
- complete nutrition guide
- Recipe Card
about chilean tomato stew (estofado de tomate)
chilean tomato stew, or estofado de tomate, has a rich history that resonates deeply in the heart of chilean cuisine, this vibrant dish showcases the country's agricultural bounty, featuring fresh tomatoes, colorful vegetables, and aromatic spices, it reflects a blend of indigenous ingredients with influences from spanish settlers who brought their culinary traditions to south america, the result ? a hearty stew that's not just a meal but a warm embrace on chilly evenings .
what sets this stew apart is its versatility and simplicity, it’s a comforting dish that can be enjoyed by anyone whether you’re cooking for your family on a weeknight or impressing guests at a dinner party, plus, it’s an incredible way to pack in those vital nutrients while indulging in delicious flavors .
secrets behind perfect chilean tomato stew
the culinary heritage behind estofado de tomate is fascinating. originating from simple peasant food, this stew evolved over generations into something cherished by many households across chile, traditionally made with whatever seasonal vegetables were available, it welcomes creativity in the kitchen while honoring its roots .
culturally speaking, this dish holds significance during family gatherings and celebrations, it's often shared among friends and loved ones as an expression of warmth and community spirit a true reflection of what home - cooked meals are all about. and let's face it; nothing brings people together like good food.
in modern times, the popularity of this delightful stew has soared beyond chile's borders, with more folks interested in healthy eating habits and plant - based diets, estofado de tomate fits perfectly into today’s dining preferences without compromising flavor or satisfaction .
why you'll love this version
you’re going to adore my take on this classic recipe. i’ve incorporated unique flavor combinations that truly elevate each bite from smoky paprika to earthy cumin that will make your taste buds dance with delight .
but don’t worry if you’re not exactly julia child in the kitchen; my foolproof techniques ensure even novice cooks can whip up this stew without breaking a sweat. i’ve tested every step thoroughly so that you can trust it's expert - approved .
and here’s where it gets even better : time - saving tips sprinkled throughout mean you’ll spend less time chopping veggies and stirring pots while still enjoying homemade goodness straight from your stovetop.
health & nutrition highlights
let’s talk nutrition because there are some serious benefits packed into every bowl of chilean tomato stew. loaded with vitamins a and c from those luscious tomatoes along with fiber - rich carrots and zucchini you get both nourishment and comfort food vibes all at once.
this recipe also caters well to various dietary considerations : vegetarian - friendly ? check. gluten - free ? you betcha. for those mindful about wellness advantages like weight management or boosting immunity through wholesome ingredients this stews got your back.
each serving provides balanced nutrition facts too : around 180 calories per serving means you won’t feel guilty digging into seconds (or thirds.), it strikes just the right balance between being filling yet light enough for any occasion .
recipe at a glance
here’s everything you need to know before diving headfirst into making your own bowl of happiness :
- total preparation time : approximately 15 minutes
- cooking time : roughly 30 minutes
- skill level required : easy - peasy.
- serving size details : serves about four hungry folks.
- cost efficiency : very budget - friendly considering how far fresh produce goes keeping both your belly full and wallet happy.
so whether you're looking for cozy comfort food on cold nights or simply want something quick yet satisfying the chilean tomato stew recipe is calling out to be welcomed into your home - cooking repertoire today. it's not just another meal; it's an experience steeped in culture filled with flavorful memories waiting to unfold right within reach even amidst busy life schedules we sometimes juggle daily .
ready ? let’s get started whipping up some magic together it'll be worth every minute spent cooking (and smelling) up this scrumptious delight that'll leave everyone asking for seconds…or maybe even thirds too.

master ingredient list
premium core ingredients
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olive oil : 2 tablespoons
look for extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor, check the label for a harvest date to ensure freshness, store it in a cool, dark place to prevent rancidity . -
onion : 1 large, finely chopped
choose firm onions with dry skin and no soft spots, for storage, keep them in a well - ventilated area away from potatoes; together they can spoil faster . -
garlic : 3 cloves, minced
fresh garlic should be plump and tightly closed without any green shoots, store it in a dry place or consider putting it in the fridge if you want to prolong its life . -
bell pepper : 1 medium (red or green), diced
pick peppers that are shiny with no wrinkles – those are usually fresher. keep them in the fridge’s crisper drawer where they'll stay crisp longer . -
carrots : 2 medium, diced
opt for vibrant orange carrots that feel firm, they can last several weeks when stored unpeeled and wrapped in plastic in your fridge’s vegetable drawer . -
zucchini : 1 medium, diced
look for small to medium zucchinis that are glossy and tender, they do best stored loose in the refrigerator . -
tomatoes : fresh tomatoes :
- 6 large , peeled and chopped (or canned tomatoes : one can of about 14 oz )
if using fresh tomatoes, select ripe ones with no blemishes or cracks, canned tomatoes should have minimal ingredients listed on the label just tomatoes is ideal.
- 6 large , peeled and chopped (or canned tomatoes : one can of about 14 oz )
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vegetable broth or water : 2 cups
opt for low - sodium vegetable broth so you can control salt levels better while cooking. store unused broth in an airtight container in the fridge; most varieties will last up to a week once opened .
signature seasoning blend
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paprika : 1 teaspoon (smoked paprika is fantastic here)
select high - quality paprika marked as “smoked” if you want that rich depth of flavor. keep spices sealed tight away from light and heat to maintain their potency longer . -
cumin powder : ½ teaspoon
go for whole cumin seeds whenever possible it tastes way better when freshly ground right before use. otherwise, store powdered cumin tightly sealed; aim to use within six months after opening . -
oregano (dried) : 1 teaspoon
look out for bright green leaves instead of brownish ones the greener they are, the fresher they’ll taste. dried herbs should always be kept out of direct sunlight . -
bay leaves : 2 leaves
choose whole bay leaves rather than crushed versions they pack more flavor punch over time. just make sure they're not broken because that means they've lost some aroma already .
smart substitutions
if you're looking at making this chilean tomato stew recipe but find yourself missing some ingredients no worries.
1, replace zucchini with yellow squash or even eggplant based on what you have handy.
1, for added protein without meat try including chickpeas or lentils alongside veggies.
1, want something spicier ? toss some chili flakes into your mix.
1, seasonal variations include using roasted red peppers during summer months they add sweetness too.
kitchen equipment essentials
alrighty folks. time to gather our tools :
must - have tools
- a good sharp knife makes chopping those veggies much easier.
- a sturdy cutting board you don’t want slip - ups while slicing onions.
- a large pot or dutch oven you'll need room since we’re making stew here.
recommended appliances
- an immersion blender isn’t necessary but oh - so - handy if you prefer smoother stews.
- slow cooker could also work wonders if prep time isn't an issue.
helpful gadgets
a vegetable peeler will save your hands when tackling fresh tomatoes or just use boiling water like i do sometimes . . .oops.
home alternatives
no fancy kitchen gadgets ? no prob. use regular pots instead of dutch ovens; just monitor heat closely so nothing burns up inside there.
pro ingredient tips
now let me spill some secrets :
1, when buying vegetables look carefully at colors; dullness may indicate age as fresh produce sings vibrantly from farm freshness.
2 quality markers include checking packaging dates on dried herbs & spices fresh is always better tasting..
3 storage solutions matter too : keep herbs upright inside containers filled partially with water like flowers to extend life expectancy significantly..
4 lastly…money - saving tip ? buy bulk pantry staples such as dried beans/legumes ahead…and store properly until ready - to - use.. you'll thank me later during grocery runs..
so there ya go a complete guide packed full of tips & tricks that'll help elevate your chilean tomato stew game.. happy cooking friends and remember : it's all about enjoying each delicious step along this culinary journey together...
expert cooking method
essential preparation steps
before diving into making your chilean tomato stew, let’s get organized. mise en place is key here, start by gathering all your ingredients : olive oil, onion, garlic, bell pepper, carrots, zucchini, fresh tomatoes (or canned), vegetable broth or water, and spices like paprika and cumin .
next up is prep techniques, if you're using fresh tomatoes which i highly recommend blanch them for about a minute in boiling water to easily peel off their skins, chop them afterward and set aside, dice the onion, bell pepper, carrots, and zucchini into uniform pieces so they cook evenly .
time management is crucial too. aim to have your vegetables prepped before you start cooking, this saves you from scrambling around when things heat up in the pot, trust me; i've learned this lesson the hard way.
lastly, keep your workspace tidy while you cook, a clutter - free area can prevent accidents and help you focus on making that delicious stew .
professional cooking method
now onto the actual cooking process. heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or dutch oven over medium heat ensure it’s hot but not smoking (about 350°f/175°c), add the finely chopped onions first; sauté them until they’re translucent this should take about 5 minutes .
once those onions are looking good, toss in minced garlic for another minute until fragrant a sure sign you're doing it right. after this aromatic base is ready, add diced bell peppers and carrots next; sauté these for about 5 minutes as well until they soften slightly .
here comes the fun part : adding zucchini along with those beautifully peeled and chopped tomatoes (or canned if that's what you've got), stir everything together really well so each veggie gets coated with flavor .
when it's time to season our stew add paprika (smoked if possible), cumin powder, oregano leaves all those fantastic herbs that make this dish sing. don’t forget salt and pepper to taste.
now pour in 2 cups of vegetable broth or water, bring it all to a boil then reduce heat down low - medium (around 300°f/150°c) so it gently simmers for about 20 minutes , cover partially with a lid but leave some space for steam to escape that's how we avoid watery stew.
expert techniques
let’s talk expert techniques now because there are some critical steps worth noting. first off in terms of timing precision make sure you stir occasionally during simmering; check every five minutes or so just to ensure nothing sticks at the bottom .
after about 20 minutes , check on your stew it should be thickened nicely but not too dry either; adjust liquid levels as needed by adding more broth or water if necessary that's where experience kicks in.
quality checks are vital too : taste - test before removing from heat. adjust seasoning if required you want everything perfectly balanced before serving up this hearty dish full of love.
success strategies
alright folks we're nearing completion here. troubleshooting tips ? if your stew turns out thinner than expected after cooking time has passed don’t panic just yet. you can always let it simmer uncovered longer till desired thickness is achieved .
for quality assurance : look out for vibrant colors among veggies that means freshness and keep an eye on flavors blending together nicely without any single ingredient overpowering others.
to achieve perfect results guide : trust yourself throughout this process because even seasoned cooks face hiccups sometimes but hey that’s where creativity shines bright.
finally the last touches before serving include ladling into bowls garnished with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley…just makes everything pop visually don’t ya think ?
and there you have it a foolproof method combined with essential preparation steps leading straight toward culinary success while whipping up a fabulous chilean tomato stew recipe everyone will adore.

master chef's advice
when it comes to cooking up a storm, having the right insights can make all the difference, so here's some professional advice for your chilean tomato stew .
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professional insights : always start with high - quality ingredients, fresh veggies and good olive oil elevate the flavors significantly trust me, i learned this the hard way after using stale spices once.
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expert techniques : don't rush through sautéing those onions, caramelizing them slowly brings out their sweetness and adds depth to your stew, take that extra five minutes; it’s worth it.
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kitchen wisdom : if you're short on time, you can prepare your veggies ahead of time or even use pre - chopped ones from the store, just keep in mind that fresh is always best for flavor .
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success guarantees : taste as you go. this little habit can save your dish from being too salty or bland, feel free to tweak seasoning until it feels just right .
perfect presentation
let’s talk about making that chilean tomato stew not only delicious but visually appealing too.
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plating techniques : a deep bowl works wonders here. ladle the stew generously into a bowl, allowing some of those vibrant vegetables to show off their colors .
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garnish ideas : fresh cilantro or parsley sprinkled on top adds a pop of green and freshness, you could also thinly slice some radishes for an unexpected crunch seriously, try it.
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serving suggestions : pair with crusty bread on the side for dipping (because who doesn’t love sopping up every last drop ?), serve alongside a light salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette it balances everything perfectly .
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visual appeal tips : use contrasting colored bowls to make those reds and greens stand out more. a splash of color can really elevate your table setting .
storage & make - ahead
got leftovers ? or maybe you want to prep in advance ? here are my tips for storage and reheating :
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storage guidelines : after cooling completely, store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge, it’ll keep well for about 3–4 days .
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preservation methods : for longer storage, consider freezing portions. just ensure it's in freezer - safe containers; it'll be good for up to three months perfect when you're craving comfort food later on.
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reheating instructions : reheat gently on low heat over stove or microwave until warmed through, add a splash of water if it seems thick you don’t want a paste consistency.
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freshness tips : always check before serving again if it's been sitting around too long (you know how life gets sometimes), trust your instincts and toss if unsure .
creative variations
feeling adventurous ? spice things up with these fun variations :
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flavor adaptations : want something spicier ? toss in red pepper flakes while cooking or add chopped jalapeños at the beginning it’ll kick things up several notches.
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dietary modifications : for vegan options, swap vegetable broth instead of water; adding chickpeas boosts protein without losing that hearty feel either .
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seasonal twists : in summer, throw in corn kernels or bell peppers when they’re at their peak freshness; winter calls for root vegetables like sweet potatoes instead you get what i mean ?
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regional variations : if you’re feeling bold enough to experiment further, consider adding traditional latin spices like cumin or coriander which deepen flavor profiles beautifully too.
expert faq solutions
got questions ? i've got answers. here’s what people often wonder about :
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common concerns : "what if my stew is too watery ?" no worries. let it simmer uncovered longer so excess liquid evaporates away a quick fix for soupy situations.
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expert answers : “can i use canned tomatoes ?” absolutely the key is ensuring they’re quality brands without added sugars .
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troubleshooting guide : if flavors seem flat post - cooking ? don’t hesitate adding salt gradually till brightness returns that pinch makes all difference.
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success tips : remember patience pays off here flavors meld together beautifully by letting everything simmer happily together before serving hot steaming bowls full happiness straight from pot.
complete nutrition guide
wanting health benefits along with taste ? look no further than our nutrition breakdown :
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detailed breakdown : each serving contains roughly 180 calories loaded primarily from fiber - rich veggies packed goodness inside each bite score.
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health benefits : rich antioxidants found within tomatoes support heart health plus may help lower cancer risks (yay.), plus fiber keeps digestion happy .
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dietary information : low - calorie yet filling meal option suitable across various diets including vegetarian lifestyles so everyone wins here folks.
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portion guidance : stick around four servings per batch unless hungry friends crash dinner party unexpectedly then…all bets are off.
now you’ve got everything needed from cooking tips down right presentation ideas to enjoy this delightful chilean tomato stew recipe fully. happy cooking friends.

⚖️ Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 large Onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 medium Bell Pepper, diced (red or green)
- 2 medium Carrots, diced
- 1 medium Zucchini, diced
- 6 large Fresh tomatoes, peeled and chopped (or one can of about 14 oz canned tomatoes)
- 2 cups Vegetable Broth or Water
- 1 teaspoon Paprika (smoked paprika for extra flavor)
- ½ teaspoon Cumin Powder
- 1 teaspoon Oregano (dried)
- 2 Bay Leaves
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- Fresh Cilantro or Parsley for garnish
🥄 Instructions:
- Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients: If using fresh tomatoes, blanch them in boiling water for about a minute to easily peel off the skin. Chop and set aside. Dice onion, bell pepper, carrots, and zucchini.
- Step 2: Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in minced garlic; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Step 3: Add Vegetables: Add the diced bell pepper and carrots to the pot. Sauté for another five minutes until slightly softened.
- Step 4: Incorporate Zucchini & Tomatoes: Toss in the zucchini along with peeled/chopped fresh tomatoes (or canned). Stir well to combine.
- Step 5: Seasoning: Add paprika, cumin powder, oregano, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
- Step 6: Simmer with Liquid: Pour in vegetable broth or water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low-medium; cover partially with a lid and simmer gently for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally.
- Step 7: Final Touches: Taste-test before removing from heat; adjust seasoning if necessary by adding more salt/pepper as desired. Remove bay leaves before serving.
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