Rich, hearty, and comforting, this Vegan Beef Stew is the perfect cozy dinner.

#### Ingredients:

- 1/2 tbsp canola oil

- 1 package (about 16 oz) seitan or other beef substitute, cut into bite-sized pieces

- 7-8 cups low sodium vegetable broth

- 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper, to taste

- 2 bay leaves

- 1 medium onion, chopped

- 2 ribs celery, chopped

- 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped

- 2 garlic cloves, minced

- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced

- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)

- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)

- 1/4 cup tomato paste

- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)

#### Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Vegetables and Seitan:**

   - Heat the canola oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

   - Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.

2. **Cook the Seitan:**

   - Add the seitan pieces to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are slightly browned.

3. **Add the Broth and Seasonings:**

   - Pour in the vegetable broth, making sure there is enough liquid to cover the vegetables and seitan. Adjust the amount of broth as needed.

   - Add the bay leaves, fresh ground black pepper, soy sauce or tamari, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine.

4. **Add the Vegetables:**

   - Add the chopped celery, carrots, and potatoes to the pot. Stir to combine.

5. **Simmer the Stew:**

   - Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

6. **Add Final Ingredients:**

   - Stir in the tomato paste, peas, and corn. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes, or until the peas and corn are heated through.

7. **Thicken the Stew (Optional):**

   - If you prefer a thicker stew, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir it into the stew. Cook for a few more minutes until the stew has thickened.

8. **Serve:**

   - Remove the bay leaves before serving.

   - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

   - Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy this warm and comforting vegan beef stew, perfect for chilly evenings or as a hearty meal any time of the year!