The Candidate Winter Stew

I recently watched The Candidate on DVD. Robert Redford plays a young California man of vaguely liberal ideals who challenges a heavily favored incumbent in a race for the United States Senate. The Redford candidate’s good looks, frank opinions, and campaign savvy transform this underdog into a dark horse contender. Michael Ritchie directed this well paced, exciting film in 1972; and the scene of the “lost people” (i.e. hippies) on the beach notwithstanding, its tone of anxious optimism still feels relevant today. Like the candidate of the film’s title, this stew I’ve been making lately is wholesome, fresh, and appealing—a winning combination.

In a large soup pot, sauté about 2 cups each of chopped onions, carrots, and celery. If you want a spicy stew add a couple of chopped jalapeños. Use just enough oil to cover the bottom of the pot. When the onions start to brown add enough vegetable stock or water to cover the following: 2 or 3 chopped turnips, 6-8 small potatoes, a chopped calabasita, a cup or two of chopped winter squash or pumpkin, A bunch of chopped greens (e.g. kale, collards, or chard). Add salt, paprika, and black pepper to taste. Simmer until the potatoes have cooked through. Serve hot over shredded cabbage or with toasted bread. Enjoy!