Vault-Tec Welcome Stew (Cozy Survival Edition)

Overview
A Fallout-themed, cozy-herby chicken stew designed to be nutritionally dense, comforting, and flexible with pantry staples.
Theme: Post-war comfort food
Profile: Moderate-carb, high-protein, low-fat, family-friendly
Protein: Chicken breast
Vibe: Warm, herby, comforting, not spicy
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 2 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 3/4 tsp dried)
- 1.5 tsp fresh thyme, finely chopped (or 3/4 tsp dried)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small leek, thinly sliced and rinsed (white + light green parts)
- 4 oz green beans, trimmed and chopped
- 1/2 cup frozen corn kernels (about 75 g)
- 1 1/2 cups cauliflower, diced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 28 oz cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 tsp kosher salt (divided), adjust to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper, adjust to taste
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (or 1 tsp low-sodium soy sauce)
Instructions
1) Infusion Protocol
In a small pan over medium heat, melt the butter with olive oil. Add rosemary, thyme, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Cook 45–60 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
2) Vault Base Activation
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the infused butter mixture over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, bell pepper, bay leaf, and about 1/2 tsp salt. Cook 5–6 minutes until softened.
Lower heat, cover, and let vegetables release moisture for another 6–8 minutes.
3) Broth Deployment
Add broth and diced cauliflower. Bring to a gentle simmer. Cook 6–8 minutes until tender.
Add green beans and leek. Simmer 3 minutes.
4) Protein Reintegration
Add shredded chicken, corn, Worcestershire, black pepper, smoked paprika, and remaining salt to taste. Simmer 3–4 minutes until heated through.
Remove bay leaf. Adjust seasoning.
Notes
Estimated Macros (Per Serving)
Calories: ~220–250
Protein: ~25–28 g
Fat: ~5–7 g
Carbs: ~18–22 g
Optional Upgrade (More Moderate-Carb)
For higher-carb days: stir in 1 cup cooked diced potatoes (about 150 g), or serve over 100–150 g cooked rice.