Stewed Potatoes (not potato soup)

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds potatoes (about 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup water
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary)
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   1. Peel and cut the potatoes into bite-sized chunks. Chop the onion, slice the carrots, and celery, and mince the garlic.
2. Sauté Vegetables:
   1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil or butter over medium heat.
   2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
   3. Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add Potatoes and Broth:
   1. Add the potato chunks, carrots, celery, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf to the pot.
   2. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and water. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer:
   1. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
   2. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes and vegetables are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Thicken the Stew (Optional):
   1. If you prefer a thicker stew, mix the flour with a little water to create a slurry and stir it into the pot.
   2. Continue to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until the stew has thickened to your liking.
6. Season:
   1. Remove the bay leaf and taste the stew. Season with salt and black pepper as needed.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   1. Stir in chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and flavor if desired.
   2. Serve the stewed potatoes hot as a side dish or as a main course with some crusty bread.

Tips:

• Potato Varieties: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work well for stewing because they hold their shape and have a nice, creamy texture when cooked.
• Flavor Boost: You can add a splash of white wine or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
• Additional Ingredients: Feel free to include other vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans, depending on your preference.

Enjoy your delicious stewed potatoes!