Creamy Vegan Tomato White Bean Stew Recipe

Introduction

Creamy Vegan Tomato White Bean Stew is the perfect cozy meal that combines hearty white beans, rich tomatoes, and creamy plant-based ingredients into one comforting bowl of goodness. This stew is not only vegan but also incredibly flavorful, offering a balanced mix of savory, sweet, and tangy elements that will warm you up from the inside out. Packed with protein from the white beans and enriched with the creamy texture of coconut milk, this stew is a wholesome and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed year-round.

Whether you’re a long-time vegan or simply looking for a comforting plant-based meal, this creamy stew is an excellent choice. It’s simple to prepare, full of nutritious ingredients, and offers a comforting bowl that’s perfect for chilly nights, meal prep, or as a hearty addition to your dinner table. With its bright tomato flavor, creamy consistency, and rich seasonings, this stew is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Vegan Tomato White Bean Stew

• Hearty and Filling: The white beans provide a satisfying, protein-packed base, while the tomatoes add richness and depth to the flavor. The addition of coconut milk brings a velvety smoothness to the broth, making every spoonful indulgent.
• Flavorful and Comforting: With aromatic spices like garlic, thyme, and smoked paprika, this stew offers a warm and cozy flavor profile. The balance of savory, tangy, and creamy notes will keep you coming back for more.
• Nutritious and Wholesome: This stew is packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. The white beans are rich in protein and fiber, making this dish not only delicious but also highly nutritious.
• Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this stew is easy to prepare, making it perfect for beginner cooks or anyone looking for a quick, nutritious dinner option.
• Versatile: You can enjoy this stew on its own or serve it with a side of crusty bread, over rice, or with a fresh salad. It’s also easily customizable, so you can add more vegetables, change up the seasonings, or use different beans to suit your tastes.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 300-350 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300-350 kcal
• Fat: 12-15g
• Carbohydrates: 40-45g
• Protein: 12-14g
• Fiber: 8-10g
• Sugar: 6-8g

Ingredients

For the Stew:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (cannellini or great northern beans), drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (preferably fire-roasted for extra flavor)
• 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
• 2 cups vegetable broth (or more for desired consistency)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon ground turmeric (optional, for color)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Optional Add-ins and Variations:

• 1 cup chopped kale or spinach (for added greens)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar (for extra acidity)
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
• 1 potato, diced (for extra heartiness)
• 1 cup frozen peas (for added veggies)
• 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (for added flavor depth)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent. This step helps develop the base flavor of the stew.

Next, add the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and diced celery to the pot. Sauté the vegetables for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and beginning to caramelize slightly. The caramelization will bring out the natural sweetness of the vegetables and enhance the overall flavor of the stew.

2. Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings

Once the vegetables are softened, it’s time to add the diced tomatoes to the pot. Stir the tomatoes in with the other ingredients, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. This will add depth of flavor and help build the savory base of the stew.

Next, add the smoked paprika, dried thyme, turmeric (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir the spices into the vegetables and tomatoes, allowing them to toast slightly for 1-2 minutes. Toasting the spices will enhance their flavors and ensure that they infuse the stew evenly.

3. Add the Beans, Coconut Milk, and Broth

Now it’s time to add the white beans, which will provide protein and heartiness to the dish. Stir the drained and rinsed beans into the pot, mixing them with the tomatoes and spices.

Pour in the coconut milk, which will create a creamy base for the stew, and add the vegetable broth. Stir to combine all the ingredients, making sure the liquid covers the vegetables and beans. If you prefer a thinner stew, you can add more broth to reach your desired consistency.

Bring the stew to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Let the stew cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together, and the vegetables are fully tender.

4. Add Optional Ingredients

If you’re adding any optional ingredients, such as kale or spinach, diced potatoes, peas, or nutritional yeast, now is the time to incorporate them into the stew. Stir in the greens and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the greens have wilted and the potatoes are tender (if using).

If you like your stew with a little extra acidity, you can add a teaspoon of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar at this stage. This will brighten the flavors and balance out the richness of the coconut milk.

5. Adjust the Seasoning

Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference. If you want a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or chili powder.

6. Serve and Garnish

Once the stew is ready and the vegetables are tender, remove the pot from the heat. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired. The fresh herbs will add a pop of color and a hint of freshness that complements the richness of the stew.

Serve the creamy vegan tomato white bean stew with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of rice to soak up all the delicious broth. This stew is perfect for a light dinner, meal prep, or even a cozy lunch.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Vegan Tomato White Bean Stew

• Use Quality Coconut Milk: The coconut milk is a key ingredient in this stew, providing the creaminess and richness that make it so satisfying. Opt for full-fat coconut milk for the best texture and flavor. If you’re looking to cut down on fat, you can use light coconut milk, but the stew will be less creamy.
• Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add any vegetables you like to this stew. Zucchini, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes would all work well. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, depending on the vegetables you choose.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the beans with a spoon or immersion blender to create a creamier texture. If the stew is too thick, simply add more vegetable broth until you reach your desired consistency.
• Make it Spicy: For a spicier version of this stew, add more red pepper flakes or chili powder to the pot. You can also stir in some diced jalapeños or serrano peppers when sautéing the vegetables for an added kick.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This stew is perfect for meal prep! It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and the flavors continue to improve as it sits. You can also freeze the stew in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months.

Variations of Creamy Vegan Tomato White Bean Stew

• Creamy Vegan Tomato and Chickpea Stew: Swap the white beans for chickpeas for a slightly different texture and flavor. Chickpeas also work well in stews and offer a similar protein-packed base.
• Spicy Tomato White Bean Stew: For those who like their meals spicy, increase the amount of smoked paprika, add more red pepper flakes, or toss in some chopped chili peppers to bring heat to the dish.
• Tomato White Bean Stew with Spinach and Mushrooms: Add earthy mushrooms to this stew for a heartier texture. Sauté the mushrooms along with the onions and garlic for extra flavor before adding the beans and liquids.
• Tomato White Bean Stew with Sweet Potatoes: Add diced sweet potatoes for an extra layer of flavor and texture. Sweet potatoes pair beautifully with the creamy coconut milk and add natural sweetness to balance the savory elements of the stew.

Storage and Shelf Life

Creamy Vegan Tomato White Bean Stew stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to improve

as the stew sits, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stew in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of vegetable broth to adjust the consistency after freezing.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Creamy Vegan Tomato White Bean Stew

• Crusty Bread: A loaf of crusty sourdough or whole-grain bread is the perfect accompaniment to soak up the creamy broth.
• Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette will provide a nice contrast to the rich, creamy stew.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serve the stew over a bed of rice or quinoa for a more filling meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts complements the stew’s flavors and adds a bit of crunch.

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Conclusion

Creamy Vegan Tomato White Bean Stew is the ultimate comforting dish that combines the heartiness of beans, the richness of tomatoes, and the creaminess of coconut milk into one delicious, warming meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or anytime you want a healthy, satisfying dish that’s full of flavor. With customizable ingredients and simple steps, this stew is a great addition to any home cook’s repertoire.

Whether you enjoy it with crusty bread, over rice, or on its own, this vegan stew will surely become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy its creamy goodness, nutritious benefits, and comforting flavors as you cozy up with a bowl of this delectable dish!