Bean Stew Recipe Vegan: Easy, Hearty, and Delicious Ideas

Warm, hearty, and packed full of wholesome ingredients, this vegan bean stew recipe is a delicious way to nourish your body and soul. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your repertoire, this stew offers a perfect combination of flavors and textures that will satisfy your cravings.

With a medley of beans, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, it’s a comfort food classic that’s both filling and nutritious. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.

In this blog post, I’ll guide you through every step of crafting this delightful stew, share some expert tips and variations, and provide nutrition facts to help you understand why this recipe is a smart choice for your health.

Ready to dive into a bowl of warmth and wholesomeness? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan bean stew is a true crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile—you can swap out beans or vegetables based on what you have on hand.

The hearty beans provide ample protein and fiber, making it a satisfying meal that keeps you energized.

It’s also budget-friendly, using pantry staples that stretch your dollar further without sacrificing flavor. The rich tomato base, garlic, and spices create layers of taste that develop beautifully as the stew simmers.

Plus, because it’s vegan, it’s free from cholesterol and packed with plant-based nutrients for heart health.

Finally, it reheats wonderfully, meaning leftovers taste just as good—if not better—the next day. For more comforting vegan dishes, check out our Julie Marie Eats Recipes or explore the hearty flavors of the Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes (vegan style) for inspiration.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried black beans (or 2 cans, drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup dried kidney beans (or 2 cans, drained and rinsed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt to taste
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottom pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander (for rinsing beans)

Instructions

1. Prepare the beans: If using dried beans, soak them overnight in plenty of water. Drain and rinse before cooking. Cook the beans in fresh water until tender, about 1 to 1.5 hours. Alternatively, use canned beans for a quicker option.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add vegetables: Toss in the diced carrots, celery, and red bell pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
4. Season the stew: Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, cumin, thyme, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
5. Add liquids and tomatoes: Pour in the vegetable broth and canned diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle boil.
6. Simmer the stew: Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Stir occasionally.
7. Add cooked beans and greens: Stir in the cooked or canned beans and fresh spinach or kale. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the greens wilt and the stew is heated through.
8. Finish with lemon juice and salt: Remove the stew from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice. Taste and adjust salt if necessary.
9. Serve and garnish: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Tips & Variations

Tip: For an even richer flavor, try roasting your bell peppers before chopping them for the stew. You can also add a splash of soy sauce or tamari to deepen the umami notes.

Feel free to customize this stew by adding your favorite beans like chickpeas, navy beans, or pinto beans. Swap kale for collard greens or add diced sweet potatoes for a heartier stew.

If you enjoy a bit of heat, a diced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce adds a smoky kick.

To thicken the stew, mash some beans against the side of the pot and stir them back in. This gives the broth a creamier texture without adding any dairy.

If you want a creamier stew, add a splash of coconut milk at the end of cooking.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This bean stew is wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving. Spoon it over fluffy brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

It also pairs beautifully with crusty whole grain bread or warm pita to soak up the flavorful broth.

If you prefer, serve it alongside a fresh salad like our Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe to add a crunchy, refreshing contrast. For a cozy dinner, try it with some roasted root vegetables or steamed greens on the side.

Leftovers make excellent lunch options and can be enjoyed cold or reheated. If you want to get creative, use this stew as a filling for stuffed peppers or a topping for baked potatoes.

Conclusion

This vegan bean stew is a delightful, nourishing dish that fits perfectly into any plant-based lifestyle. It offers a beautiful balance of protein, fiber, and vitamins, all wrapped in a comforting, savory package.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this stew is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Its simplicity, adaptability, and satisfying flavors make it ideal for meal prepping or quick dinners. Don’t forget to experiment with the tips and variations to make it truly your own.

For more inspiring recipes to complement your plant-based meals, check out our Magic Dough Recipe for homemade breads and the indulgent Marzipan Challah Recipe. Happy cooking and enjoy every delicious spoonful!

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