If you are looking for a cozy, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Creamy Tomato and White Bean Stew Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines the bright acidity of ripe tomatoes with the satisfying creaminess of white beans and coconut milk, creating a luscious, comforting stew that’s both nourishing and delicious. Perfect for any season, this stew is packed with flavor, vibrant colors, and wholesome ingredients that come together effortlessly for a satisfying plant-based dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, wholesome, and bursting with flavor—each ingredient in this stew plays a crucial role in building its rich taste and inviting texture. From smoky paprika to fresh greens, every component is essential to making your Creamy Tomato and White Bean Stew Recipe a memorable dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a fruity, silky base for sautéing and brings depth to the stew.
- 1 small yellow onion (diced): Provides sweetness and aroma as it softens.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the stew with vibrant, savory notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Offers a gentle heat to lift the flavors without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings subtle earthiness and herbaceousness.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds smoky warmth and a beautiful reddish hue.
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes: The heart of the stew, lending tang and freshness.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavor and thickens the broth.
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) white beans (drained and rinsed): Creamy texture and plant-based protein make this stew filling and hearty.
- 2 cups vegetable broth: Keeps everything simmering and melds layers of flavor.
- 1/2 cup canned coconut milk or heavy cream: Adds luscious creaminess, balancing tomato acidity.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without being intrusive.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides gentle spice and complexity.
- 2 cups baby spinach or chopped kale: Brightens the stew with fresh, tender greens.
- Juice of 1/2 lemon: Adds a refreshing zing to finish.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Brings a pop of green and fresh herbal notes on top.
How to Make Creamy Tomato and White Bean Stew Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering. Add the diced onion and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until it softens and becomes translucent. Then stir in the minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, dried thyme, and smoked paprika. Let those spices wake up the pan by cooking everything together for about 30 seconds; this step releases wonderful fragrance and builds a solid flavor foundation.
Step 2: Combine Tomatoes and Beans
Next, pour in the can of diced tomatoes along with the tomato paste to intensify the tomato essence. Add your drained and rinsed white beans, then pour in the vegetable broth. Give everything a good stir so the flavors mingle beautifully. Bring the mixture up to a gentle simmer and let it cook uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes, allowing the stew to thicken slightly and the flavors to marry perfectly.
Step 3: Stir in Creaminess and Season
Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in your choice of canned coconut milk or heavy cream. This introduces that silky, creamy texture that distinguishes this stew. Season with salt and black pepper, then let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes, giving the creaminess time to infuse the stew and soften further.
Step 4: Add Greens and Finish With Lemon
Right before serving, toss in the baby spinach or chopped kale and cook just until wilted—usually about 2 minutes is perfect. The greens add a refreshing contrast in texture and color. Finally, squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the stew to brighten all the flavors and add a tantalizing fresh finish. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then you’re ready to serve this heartwarming dish.
How to Serve Creamy Tomato and White Bean Stew Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a touch of vibrancy and herbal brightness, lifting the stew’s flavor profile beautifully. You could also try a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes if you love a bit more spice. These little touches make your stew look and taste that much more inviting.
Side Dishes
This stew shines alongside a crusty slice of rustic bread, perfect for soaking up the creamy tomato sauce. You can also serve it with garlic toast, a simple quinoa salad, or even over mashed potatoes for a heartier meal. The versatility of this dish means you can tailor it to whatever fits your mood or pantry.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving the stew in charming individual bowls with a swirl of coconut cream or a dollop of vegan yogurt for an elegant touch. You could also turn it into a stew-based pasta sauce by tossing it with penne or rigatoni. For a casual dinner, ladle it into a bread bowl—a cozy, edible presentation that guests will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Creamy Tomato and White Bean Stew Recipe actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors deepen and develop overnight. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a perfect dish to prepare in advance for busy weeknights.
Freezing
You can freeze this stew with ease, which is ideal for meal planning and saving time. Cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Because the stew thickens as it cools, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up to your desired consistency. Stir frequently to warm evenly and avoid sticking.
FAQs
Can I use canned beans other than white beans in this stew?
Absolutely! While white beans like cannellini or great northern are ideal for their creamy texture, you can substitute with chickpeas or butter beans depending on your preference. Just be sure to drain and rinse them well before adding to the stew.
Is this stew vegan?
Yes, this recipe is fully vegan when you use canned coconut milk or another plant-based cream. If you prefer, you can also use heavy cream for a non-vegan version, but the coconut milk provides a wonderful dairy-free creaminess.
Can I make this stew spicier?
Definitely! The recipe calls for crushed red pepper flakes but you can increase the amount or add fresh chili, cayenne, or even a dash of hot sauce to suit your heat tolerance.
What can I substitute for coconut milk?
Feel free to swap coconut milk for heavy cream, cashew cream, or any other creamy plant-based milk. Each option will bring a slightly different flavor but maintain the luscious texture this stew is known for.
How long does it take to prepare this stew?
This recipe is wonderfully quick, taking about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, making the total time just around 30 minutes. Perfect for a nourishing weeknight meal without a lengthy wait.
Final Thoughts
Honestly, once you try this Creamy Tomato and White Bean Stew Recipe, it might just become one of your all-time favorite go-to meals for comfort food that’s both wholesome and flavorful. It’s approachable, packed with good ingredients, and comes together in no time. So go ahead, pour yourself a bowl, and savor the creamy, tangy, and satisfying taste that only this stew can deliver. You absolutely deserve it!
Print
Creamy Tomato and White Bean Stew Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This creamy tomato and white bean stew combines hearty cannellini beans with rich coconut milk and vibrant Mediterranean spices to create a comforting, plant-based main course. Featuring a blend of diced tomatoes, spinach, and warming smoked paprika, this easy stovetop recipe is both nourishing and flavorful, perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups baby spinach or chopped kale
- fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Spices and Flavorings
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- juice of 1/2 lemon
Beans and Tomato
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) white beans such as cannellini or great northern, drained and rinsed
Liquids and Creaminess
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup canned coconut milk or heavy cream
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until softened and translucent, building the base flavor for the stew.
- Add Spices and Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), dried thyme, and smoked paprika. Cook for another 30 seconds to release the spices’ aromas without burning the garlic.
- Combine Tomatoes, Beans, and Broth: Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, drained white beans, and vegetable broth to the pot. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer Stew: Allow the stew to cook uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes, enabling flavors to meld and the liquid to reduce slightly for a richer taste and thicker texture.
- Add Creaminess and Season: Reduce heat to low and stir in the coconut milk or heavy cream, followed by salt and black pepper. Continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to incorporate the creamy element thoroughly.
- Wilt Greens: Add the baby spinach or chopped kale and cook just until wilted, about 2 minutes, providing freshness and added nutrition to the stew.
- Finish with Lemon and Adjust Seasoning: Squeeze in the juice of half a lemon to brighten the flavors, then taste the stew and adjust salt or pepper if necessary.
- Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot, accompanied by crusty bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- This stew thickens as it sits—add a splash of vegetable broth when reheating to loosen the texture.
- Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a satisfying meal.
- For a nutty flavor alternative, substitute coconut milk with homemade cashew cream or use dairy cream if preferred.
- Crushed red pepper flakes are optional depending on your heat preference.
