Earthbound Root Vegetable Stew with Smoked Paprika

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-06-17 · Updated 2026-06-17

A hearty stew combining earthy root vegetables and smoky paprika, inspired by the struggle for sustenance on a changing Earth. This Mediterranean-inspired vegan recipe, ready in about 55 minutes, pairs carrots, parsnips, potatoes for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 180 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 3 medium, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes carrots
• 2 medium, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes parsnips
• 2 medium, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes potatoes
• 1 large, diced yellow onion
• 4, minced garlic cloves
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp, chopped fresh thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tbsp, chopped for garnish fresh parsley

The Dutch oven we’d braise this in → Best Dutch Ovens for 2026: Top Picks + Buying Guide

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 large diced yellow onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
2. Step 2: Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 2 tsp smoked paprika, cooking for 1 minute until aromatic.
3. Step 3: Stir in 3 diced carrots, 2 diced parsnips, and 2 diced potatoes, sautéing for 4 minutes to slightly soften the vegetables.
4. Step 4: Pour in 4 cups vegetable broth, add 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme, and 1 bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30 minutes until vegetables are tender and stew thickens.
5. Step 5: Remove the bay leaf, adjust seasoning if needed, and garnish with 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley before serving warm.