Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew

This Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew is the perfect hearty and comforting dish for cooler days. With a rich, savory broth, tender white beans, and meaty mushrooms, this stew is both filling and nourishing. It’s a plant-based recipe that’s packed with flavor, making it a great option for vegetarians or anyone looking for a wholesome, satisfying meal. Whether you serve it with crusty bread or a simple salad, it’s sure to become a new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Comforting: A warm bowl of stew that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with nutritious white beans, mushrooms, and fresh vegetables.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps and minimal prep make this an ideal weeknight dinner.
• Plant-Based: Great for vegetarians or those looking for a meatless meal option.
• Versatile: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Olive oil
• Onion
• Garlic
• Carrots
• Celery
• Mushrooms
• White beans (canned or cooked from dry)
• Vegetable broth
• Thyme
• Bay leaf
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and the onions are translucent.
2. Cook the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes, until they release their moisture and become tender.
3. Add Broth and Beans: Stir in the white beans, vegetable broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Season and Serve: Remove the bay leaf, season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 4-6 people.
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

• Add Greens: Stir in a handful of spinach or kale at the end of cooking for extra nutrients.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a bit of heat.
• Swap the Beans: Try using chickpeas or lentils instead of white beans for a different texture.
• Make it Creamy: Blend a portion of the stew and mix it back into the pot for a creamier consistency.
• Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked sausage, chicken, or tofu.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze this stew for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

How do I thicken the stew?

You can thicken the stew by mashing some of the beans or blending a small portion of the stew and mixing it back in.

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes! If using dried beans, cook them separately before adding them to the stew.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. You can add vegetables like potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the vegetable broth you use is gluten-free, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can. Sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes, this stew reheats beautifully, so it’s perfect for meal prep or making ahead.

What type of mushrooms work best?

Button mushrooms, cremini, or even portobello mushrooms work well in this recipe.

Can I use water instead of vegetable broth?

You can, but the vegetable broth adds more flavor. If using water, you may want to increase the seasonings.

How long will the leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

How do I make this stew more filling?

You can serve it with a side of crusty bread or add grains like quinoa or barley to the stew.

Conclusion

This Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew is a simple yet delicious meal that’s perfect for any time you need a comforting, nourishing dish. With wholesome ingredients and plenty of room for variations, it’s a versatile recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you enjoy it on its own or with your favorite sides, it’s sure to warm you up and leave you satisfied.

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