Vegan Stew Recipe: Hearty and Delicious Comfort Food

Updated On: October 4, 2025

When the weather turns chilly and cozy comfort food is on your mind, nothing beats a warm, hearty vegan stew. This recipe combines the rich flavors of fresh vegetables, protein-packed beans, and savory herbs to create a satisfying meal that’s both nourishing and delicious.

Perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone looking to add more plant-based meals to their diet, this stew is as versatile as it is tasty. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or prepping meals for the week, this vegan stew recipe is easy to make and bursts with wholesome goodness in every bite.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in a variety of vegetables and legumes, making it a powerhouse of nutrients and flavor.

Celebrated for its simplicity and heartiness, this stew will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Ready in under an hour, it’s a perfect blend of convenience and comfort.

Dive into this recipe to experience a delicious plant-based meal that warms the soul and fuels your body.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich in nutrients: Loaded with a colorful array of vegetables and beans, this stew is a powerhouse of vitamins, fiber, and protein.

Easy and flexible: Perfect for weeknight dinners, you can swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand.

Comfort food classic: It delivers that familiar, warm, and hearty feeling without any animal products.

Budget-friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that stretch to feed multiple servings.

Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it an ideal meal prep option for busy days!

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 medium carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 zucchini, chopped
  • 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut in half
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Can opener
  • Ladle for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
  2. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Add the carrots, celery, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the vegetables to start softening.
  5. Mix in the cubed potatoes, zucchini, and green beans, stirring well to combine all the veggies.
  6. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and vegetable broth. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  7. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and add the smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
  8. Stir in the kidney beans and chickpeas. Continue cooking for another 5-10 minutes to heat the beans through and allow flavors to meld.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper if desired.
  10. Remove the stew from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley just before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of cashew cream just before serving.

Feel free to swap out any vegetables depending on the season or what you have available—sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or mushrooms are great alternatives.

To add a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

For a smoky depth, try adding a teaspoon of liquid smoke or smoked salt.

To boost protein, add cooked lentils or quinoa in the last 10 minutes of simmering.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 280 kcal
Protein 12 g
Carbohydrates 45 g
Dietary Fiber 10 g
Fat 5 g
Sodium 600 mg

Serving Suggestions

This vegan stew is delicious served hot with a side of crusty bread or fluffy rice for soaking up the flavorful broth. For a lighter option, pair it with a fresh green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette.

You can also top the stew with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor boost or some toasted pumpkin seeds for added crunch and nutrition. If you enjoy a bit of zest, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving adds a bright, refreshing note.

For more comforting plant-based meal ideas, check out these recipes: Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas, Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals, and Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.

Conclusion

This vegan stew recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a meal that’s both nourishing and deeply satisfying. Its rich flavors and hearty texture make it an ideal dish for cold days or whenever you crave comfort food without the heaviness of meat or dairy.

The recipe’s flexibility means you can customize it to your tastes and the produce you have available, making it a versatile go-to in your culinary repertoire.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring plant-based meals, this stew offers a delightful combination of taste, nutrition, and ease of preparation. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a wholesome, homemade meal that warms you from the inside out.

Give it a try, and don’t forget to explore more delicious vegan recipes on our site to keep your menu exciting and healthful!

📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Stew Recipe

Description: A hearty and flavorful vegan stew packed with vegetables and legumes. Perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT45M
Total Time: PT60M

Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 1 large potato, diced
  • 1 cup green lentils, rinsed
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
  3. Stir in carrots, celery, and potato; cook for 5 minutes.
  4. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, and paprika.
  5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40 minutes.
  6. Season with salt and pepper, then serve warm.

Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 15 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 45 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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