Stewed New Potatoes by My Mom — Simple & Cozy

⏰ Prep & Cook Time: ~40 minutes

🍽️ Servings: 2-3

Ingredients

4 new potatoes (~700 g)
1 small zucchini
2 small ripe tomatoes
1 small onion
1/3 red bell pepper
2 garlic cloves
3 slices smoked bacon (kaizer)
50 ml tomato paste (bulion)
1 tbsp oil
Salt, pepper
Optional: chopped dill for garnish

Instructions

Slice the smoked bacon into strips. Fry in 1 tablespoon of oil until browned and the fat renders out. Remove bacon from the pot and set aside.
In the bacon fat, sauté finely chopped onion and diced bell pepper on low heat until very soft (about 10 minutes).
Add crushed garlic and cook for another minute.
Return bacon to the pot.
Peel and slice the potatoes into 4-5 mm thick rounds. Layer the potato slices in the pot on top of the bacon mixture, seasoning each layer with salt and pepper. Optionally sprinkle some chopped dill.
Add a layer of zucchini slices, same thickness as potatoes, sprinkle with salt.
Top with tomato slices sprinkled with salt.
Pour tomato paste and 100 ml water around the edges of the pot (no more liquid needed — zucchini and tomatoes will release juices). Gently shake the pot to settle the contents.
Bring to a boil, cover with a lid, reduce heat to low and simmer gently for about 20 minutes. Every 5 minutes, shake the pot gently to prevent sticking. Check if potatoes are tender before turning off heat.
Let stand with lid on for at least 15 minutes before serving.
Serve warm, sprinkled with fresh parsley.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

This comforting dish is perfect as a light main or hearty side. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or fresh bread to soak up the juices. Serve alongside a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.

📝 Final Thoughts

Stewing new potatoes with fresh seasonal vegetables and smoky bacon creates a rustic, nourishing meal that celebrates simple ingredients. The slow gentle cooking lets flavors meld beautifully while keeping the potatoes tender and aromatic. Perfect for cozy dinners or weekend lunches.