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.