Oh, how I adore this Creamy Vegan Tomato White Bean Stew! Every time I prepare this dish, I find myself enveloped in its warmth and vibrant flavors, and it reminds me of those cozy evenings spent with friends and family around the dinner table. Picture this: the golden hour sun streaming through the window while we laugh and share stories, the rich aroma of tomatoes, garlic, and herbs wafting through the air, coaxing everyone to gather close. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an embrace in a bowl.
Why you’ll love this recipe
Now, why should you whip this up tonight? Let me tell you why! For starters, this stew is the epitome of comfort food — think of it as a big hug for your insides. It’s hearty enough to satiate, but light enough that you won’t feel sluggish afterward. The combination of creamy white beans and sweet cherry tomatoes creates a delightful balance, while the herbs bring a touch of freshness that dances on your palate.
Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder. You don’t need to mess around with multiple pans or complicated steps here. Everything comes together beautifully in a single pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. And did I mention it’s vegan and packed with nutrients? Honestly, what’s not to love? Cooking it makes your kitchen smell divine, elevating even the dreariest of days. Who could resist?
Gather these ingredients
Let’s talk about what you need to gather for this delightful stew:
White Beans: Just one can, drained and rinsed — these little guys pack a punch. They provide protein and creaminess that will make your stew luscious without any dairy.
Cherry Tomatoes: Two cups, halved. Sweet and juicy, they bring brightness to your bowl. You can toss in regular tomatoes if that’s what you’ve got lying around, but cherry tomatoes always add a beautiful pop of color.
Vegetable Broth: Two cups of this liquid gold acts as the stew’s base, enriching the overall flavor. You can make your own or grab your favorite store-bought version; just aim for low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
Greens: One cup of spinach or kale, chopped. Greens add nutrients and a lovely textural contrast. If you’re not a fan of either, you could sneak in some chopped zucchini or whatever greens you have on hand!
Onion: One onion, diced. Onions form the magical flavor base of the stew. Their sweetness blooms as they sauté, imparting depth.
Garlic: Three cloves, minced. Garlic is the superhero ingredient here — its aromatic properties infuse the stew with deliciousness.
Olive Oil: One tablespoon, for sautéing. Olive oil brings a wonderful richness that enhances the overall flavor.
Dried Thyme: One teaspoon provides an earthy note; feel free to swap in other herbs like oregano if that’s what you have.
Salt and Pepper: To taste. Simple seasonings, but they’re absolutely crucial for balancing flavors and highlighting all those wonderful ingredients.
Preparing Creamy Vegan Tomato White Bean Stew
Let’s get our hands dirty and make this stew, shall we?
- In a large pot, drizzle in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent — this should take about 5 minutes. Don’t rush this; it’s where the magic begins!
- Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes. Stir and let them cook down until they start to soften (about 3-4 minutes). They should become juicy and fragrant.
- Now, add in the white beans, vegetable broth, and dried thyme. Bring this delightful mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for around 10 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Finally, stir in your chopped greens and cook until they’re wilted and tender, just a minute or two.
- Give it a taste and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Serve warm and enjoy the love you’ve just created!
Best way to enjoy it
So, how to serve this delectable stew? It’s delicious on its own, but I suggest pairing it with crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a well-rounded meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top, like parsley or basil, can elevate it even more. If you’re feeling a little adventurous, toss in a splash of lemon juice for a zesty kick that brightens every bite.
Keeping leftovers fresh
Let’s talk about storage. This stew is fantastic for meal prep, so if you have leftovers (which is unlikely because it’s so good, but just in case!), you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you’d like to freeze it, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it will hold up beautifully for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up.
Pro chef tips
Now, a few tips for a seamless cooking experience. First off, if you want an extra depth of flavor, try toasting the dried thyme in the olive oil for about 30 seconds before adding the onions. It really brings out that herbaceous note! Trust me; it’s a game changer. Also, if you like a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes will add a nice zing.
Creative Twists
Feel free to let your creativity run wild! Swap out the white beans for lentils if you fancy a different texture, or add in chopped carrots and celery for added crunch. If you’re a fan of spice, why not incorporate some diced red chili pepper or a splash of balsamic vinegar to balance the flavors?
Your questions answered
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen.
- How can I make it spicier? Simply add more garlic, or toss in some chili flakes or diced jalapeño!
- What can I serve it with? Crusty bread, quinoa, or a light salad pair perfectly.
- How do I reheat it? Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick.
- Can I freeze it? Absolutely! It freezes wonderfully. Just ensure it cools completely before freezing.
I hope you give this recipe a shot and indulge in the cozy vibes it brings to your kitchen! This Creamy Vegan Tomato White Bean Stew is not just a dish; it’s a reminder to slow down, savor the little things, and nourish ourselves in the process. Have fun with it, explore your variations, and don’t forget to come back and share your experience!
Creamy Vegan Tomato White Bean Stew
Description
This creamy vegan tomato white bean stew is hearty, nutritious, and simple to make in one pot. It combines tender white beans with sweet cherry tomatoes, fresh greens, and fragrant herbs, creating a delightful dish that warms both the heart and the palate.Ingredients
Main Ingredients
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, drizzle in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.Cook Tomatoes
Add the halved cherry tomatoes and let them cook down until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.Combine Main Ingredients
Add in the white beans, vegetable broth, and dried thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for around 10 minutes.Add Greens
Stir in the chopped greens and cook until they're wilted, about 1-2 minutes.Season and Serve
Taste and season with salt and pepper to preference. Serve warm.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 250kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 10g16%
- Saturated Fat 1g5%
- Cholesterol 0mg
- Sodium 400mg17%
- Potassium 600mg18%
- Total Carbohydrate 35g12%
- Dietary Fiber 10g40%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 12g24%
- Vitamin A 30 IU
- Vitamin C 25 mg
- Calcium 8 mg
- Iron 10 mg
- Vitamin K 20 mcg
- Thiamin 15 mg
- Riboflavin 10 mg
- Niacin 12 mg
- Vitamin B6 8 mg
- Folate 15 mcg
- Pantothenic Acid 5 mg
- Phosphorus 15 mg
- Magnesium 10 mg
- Zinc 8 mg
- Copper 5 mg
- Manganese 25 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
