Healthy Stew Options for Cold Weather Meals 

 

Winter is a time for warming comfort foods. While most people assume that stew and other comfort foods are not very healthy, this is not always the case. There are several stews that are actually chock full of nutrients but low in fat and sodium. Here are six of our favorite healthy stews.

Borscht

This classic Eastern European soup deserves more acclaim than it gets! Made of beets, potatoes, and other root vegetables, it offers a long list of nutrients along with low fat and salt content. In addition, beets are believed to help purify the blood and detox the liver.

Bouillabaisse

This French Provençal fish stew is chock full of the nutrients we associate with fish, including omega 3 fatty acids, vitamins D and B2 (riboflavin), and calcium. Bouillabaisse is actually simple to make, with a  broth made from fish stock and spices. More fish and shellfish are usually added just before serving.

Minestrone

This popular Italian stew is not just delicious, but good for you. The tomato and broth base contains garlic and onions, while the beans and pasta form a complete protein with no meat required. In addition, this stew is full of other delicious veggies.

Pozole

If you are a fan of traditional Latin American foods, this stew (which predates Columbus) is a delicious choice. Pozole has pork, but also chiles, hominy, cabbage, and other healthy additions.

Ratatouille

Another French Provençal stew with health benefits, Ratatouille is a vegan stew that is full of nutrients and vitamins. The tomato base provides vitamins C and A, while garlic and onions have phytonutrients that may help fight disease. Eggplant, zucchini, sweet bell peppers, and herbs are also a part of traditional ratatouille.

Sopa Negra

This Costa Rican bean stew includes black beans along with onions, garlic, spices, and fresh chopped cilantro. Costa Ricans also like to add hard boiled eggs for an extra kick of protein.

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