Hearty & Comforting Veggie Pea Stew

It is finally autumn, my lovely friends, which means it’s officially stew season! And I am sooo here for it! There’s something magical about the cozy warmth of a hearty stew that I live for during these colder months. To be entirely honest, this Veggie Pea Stew is perfect all year round—we eat it all the time—but there’s a certain charm it brings when it’s chilly outside.

This vegetarian stew is a staple in my family. It’s super simple to make, yet absolutely delicious and filling. Packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s perfect for a comforting meal any day of the week. Personally, I love serving it with a side of falafel or feta cheese.

I have to admit something that might be a little controversial though. I always always use whole peppercorns for stews, instead of crushed pepper. I believe it adds a deeper flavor without making the dish spicy whatsoever. But, of course, you’ll need to fish out the peppercorns before serving to avoid any spicy surprises! If you’re not a fan of this method, feel free to use freshly ground pepper instead.

What makes this Vegan Pea Stew so delicious?

What makes this Veggie Pea Stew so great is its perfect balance between hearty and light—it’s filling without being heavy. The recipe is incredibly easy to whip up using simple ingredients that you likely already have on hand. It’s the ideal dish to warm you up during chilly autumn and winter days, bringing comfort to the table with minimal effort. Plus, it’s fantastic for meal prep or enjoying over the course of a few days, as the flavors only deepen and improve with time.

Why you’ll love this recipe

• Quick and Easy: You don’t need hours to make this stew, yet it tastes like it’s been simmering all day.
• Healthy Comfort Food: It’s nourishing, plant-based, and naturally packed with veggies.
• Family-Friendly: A dish that everyone, even the pickiest eaters, will enjoy.

Ingredients

Peas – Both frozen and canned peas work wonderfully in this stew. Keep in mind that frozen peas may require a little more cooking time, while canned peas offer a slightly different taste and texture.

Onion – A good stew always starts with a flavorful onion base. It brings depth and richness to the dish.

Carrots – These add a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the peas, balancing out the savory flavors.

Potatoes – They make the stew heartier, adding texture and substance. You can skip them if you prefer a lighter version.

Chopped tomatoes & Tomato passata – Using both gives the stew a rich, slightly tangy tomato base that really enhances the flavor.

Dill – Fresh dill adds a burst of bright, herby flavor that truly elevates the stew. I’m a huge dill lover, so I often double the amount. If you’re like me, feel free to add more—it makes the dish absolutely amazing!

Bay leaves – Perfect to give the stew an extra depth of flavor.

Olive oil – Olive oil adds a beautiful richness to the stew, but if you don’t have it on hand, any neutral oil will work as a substitute.

Salt & Pepper – Season to taste, and don’t forget the peppercorn trick!

Tips for recipe success

• For an extra depth of flavor, try using whole peppercorns! They infuse the stew with a subtle kick without making it spicy. Just remember to remove them before serving. If you have a bouquet garni bag at hand, pop the peppercorns inside—it makes fishing them out a breeze once the stew is done. It’s an easy way to elevate the dish with minimal effort!
• Don’t rush it! Take your time to let the flavors build as it simmers. Your patience will be rewarded!