Vegan Butter Bean Stew

Why Make This Recipe

Vegan Butter Bean Stew is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for anyone looking for a cozy meal. It’s packed with protein from the butter beans and filled with a variety of vegetables, making it both nutritious and satisfying. This recipe is not only easy to make, but it’s also versatile, allowing you to add your own favorite spices and greens. Plus, it’s completely plant-based, making it a great option for vegans or anyone wanting to eat more plant-powered meals.

How to Make Vegan Butter Bean Stew

Ingredients:

• 1 can butter beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups spinach or other greens (optional)
• 1 cup coconut milk (optional)
• Spices to taste (e.g., cumin, paprika)

Directions:

1. In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat and sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until tender.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute.
3. Stir in the butter beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes.
5. If using, stir in the spinach and coconut milk and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve warm.

How to Serve Vegan Butter Bean Stew

Vegan Butter Bean Stew can be served on its own or with a side of crusty bread for dipping. It’s also fantastic over rice or quinoa for a more filling meal. You can garnish it with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for some heat.

How to Store Vegan Butter Bean Stew

To store Vegan Butter Bean Stew, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Tips to Make Vegan Butter Bean Stew

• Feel free to customize the veggies in the stew based on what you have on hand.
• For a thicker stew, you can blend a portion of it and stir it back in.
• Adjust the spices to your taste. Adding more cumin or smoked paprika can give it a nice depth of flavor.

Variation

You can add other legumes like chickpeas or lentils for extra protein. For a spicier kick, toss in some chopped jalapeños or chili powder.

FAQs

Can I use fresh beans instead of canned butter beans?
Yes, you can use dry beans, but you will need to cook them beforehand. Make sure they are tender before adding them to the stew.

Is this stew gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Just add the spinach and coconut milk in the last 30 minutes of cooking.