Witch's stew, also known as detox stew, has traditionally been celebrated as a vegetable-forward dish that nourishes the body. Adding protein transforms this already nutritious stew into a complete meal that satisfies hunger while still providing the cleansing benefits of the vegetable base.

A Customizable Approach to Witch's Stew

One of the best features of this stew is its adaptability. Adding 1 cup of your choice of protein—whether it's lean steak, chicken breast, tofu, tempeh, or even white beans—makes perfect sense and turns this dish into a more substantial meal. This protein addition is especially helpful for:

• Balancing blood sugar levels
• Promoting fullness and satisfaction
• Supporting muscle maintenance
• Accommodating different dietary preferences

What Makes It Special

This protein-enhanced stew celebrates wholesome ingredients:

• Your choice of protein provides essential amino acids and makes the dish more filling
• Colorful root vegetables like carrots, beets, and turnips offer natural sweetness and antioxidants
• Cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, kale, and broccoli contain beneficial compounds
• Mild-flavored vegetables like zucchini, celery, and mushrooms create a balanced base
• Warming spices like turmeric, cumin, and black pepper add depth without overwhelming
• Citrus elements brighten the flavor while potentially aiding digestion

Perfect for Meal Prep

The addition of protein makes this stew ideal for meal preparation:

• Keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days
• Flavors often deepen and improve overnight
• Can be portioned and frozen for quick future meals
• Provides a balanced meal-in-one option for busy days

Whether you're looking for a satisfying dinner, a post-workout recovery meal, or a gentle nutritional reset, this protein-enhanced witch's stew offers a perfect balance of cleansing vegetables and satisfying protein.

Protein-Packed Witch's Detox Stew

This nutrient-dense stew combines the cleansing power of vegetables with satisfying protein for a complete meal that nourishes and rejuvenates. Perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner at home!

Ingredients:

Base Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
• 1 cup or more protein of choice (diced chicken breast, beef sirloin, firm tofu, or tempeh)
• 2 carrots, diced
• 3 celery stalks, diced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup broccoli cuts
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 1/2 cup cabbage, chopped or shredded
• 4-5 fresh tomatoes, chopped or diced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 cup water or vegetable, chicken broth (depending on protein choice)

Spices:

• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon curry
• 1 teaspoon cumin (optional)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Sea salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon ketchup (optional)

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 cup kale or spinach, chopped
• 1 sweet potato, diced
• ½ cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Protein:
If using meat, season lightly with salt and pepper. If using tofu or tempeh, cut into ½-inch cubes.

2. Heat the Pot:
In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the oil over medium heat.

3. Cook the Protein:
Add your protein of choice to the pot and cook until browned on all sides (about 5–7 minutes for meat, 3–4 minutes for tofu/tempeh). Remove and set aside on a plate.

4. Build the Flavor Base:
In the same pot, add the carrots and celery. Cook for 3–4 minutes until they begin to soften.

5. Add Remaining Vegetables:
Add the bell pepper, zucchini, mushrooms, broccoli, and cabbage. Cook for another 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Add Liquids and Seasonings:
Pour in the tomatoes and the water or broth. Add the bay leaves, turmeric, curry, and black pepper. Stir well.

7. Return the Protein:
Add the cooked protein back to the pot.

8. Simmer:
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer covered for 20–25 minutes, or longer, until vegetables are tender.

9. Add Optional Greens:
If using kale or spinach, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

10. Finish the Stew:
Remove from heat and discard the bay leaves.

11. Taste and Adjust:
Season with salt to taste and adjust any other seasonings as needed.

12. Serve:
Ladle into bowls and enjoy while warm.

Storage:

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freeze portions for up to 3 months

Notes:

• For a heartier stew, add ½ cup of rinsed quinoa or barley when adding the broth
• This stew tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to develop
• For added nutrition, top with avocado slices or a dollop of plain yogurt when serving
• You don't need to add a lot of water or broth, because when the stew simmers, the vegetables start to make broth

Thank you for being here as I start this journey. I can’t wait to share more recipes, tips, and stories with you — one crumb at a time.

Stay tuned,
~ Clever Crumbs