Slow Cooker Vegan White Bean Stew
Try this Slow Cooker Vegan White Bean Stew recipe.
Try this Slow Cooker Vegan White Bean Stew recipe.
- 1 bay leaf
- ground black pepper to taste
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 large celery stalks diced
- 10-12 cups water
- 2 large carrots peeled and diced
- 2 tbsp. salt (according to taste can start with 1 tablespoon and add more at end if needed)
- 1 large can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes (i like muir glen organ
- 5-6 cups (or more) roughly chopped leafy greens (spinach chard, kale)
- rice polenta or bread for serving
- 2 pounds white beans (see note below)
- 3 cloves garlic minced or chopped
- 1 tsp. each: dried rosemary thyme, oregano
- Carbohydrate 2.091187 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.082574 g
- Fiber 0.760389996337891 g
- Protein 0.281193 g
- Saturated Fat 0.017594 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -12 serving (125g)
- Sodium 25.3418 mg
- Sugar 1.33079700366211 g
- Trans Fat 0.017516 g
- Calories 10 calories
Step-by-step
- Sort through and rinse beans several times in cool water.
- Add to the slow cooker along with the diced carrots, celery, onions, garlic, bay leaf and dried herbs.
- Add the water. (Use less for a thicker stew, more for more of a soup.)
- Cover and cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours, or LOW for 8-10 hours.
- Remove lid from slow cooker and add the salt and pepper, and diced tomatoes.
- Let cook for another 1-1½ hours, or until beans are very soft. (If they are already soft after the initial cooking time, different kinds of beans may vary in cooking time, then add the tomatoes and greens and serve immediately.)
- Before serving, stir in the chopped greens.
- Serve over hot cooked rice, polenta, or with bread.
My Go-To Comfort Food: Slow Cooker Vegan White Bean Stew
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook nutritious and delicious meals can feel like a Herculean task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and keeping the house somewhat organized, the last thing I want to do is spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. That's why I've become a huge fan of slow cooker recipes – they’re my secret weapon for effortless, healthy eating. And this Slow Cooker Vegan White Bean Stew is a definite favorite in our household.
This stew is incredibly versatile. It’s hearty and filling enough to be a complete meal on its own, yet light enough to not weigh you down. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying broth. The best part? It requires minimal prep time. I usually throw everything in the slow cooker in the morning before I head to work, and come home to a warm, comforting meal ready to serve. My kids love it, and even my picky husband finds himself going back for seconds (which is saying something!).
Why I love this recipe:
• Simplicity: The ingredient list is straightforward, and the instructions couldn't be simpler. Even a beginner cook can master this recipe.
• Flavor: The combination of herbs, garlic, and tomatoes creates a delicious and savory flavor profile that's both comforting and sophisticated.
• Health Benefits: This stew is packed with protein and fiber from the beans, vitamins from the vegetables, and it’s completely vegan, making it a healthy option for everyone.
• Versatility: Serve it over rice, polenta, or with a crusty slice of bread. You can easily adjust the consistency to your liking by adding more or less water. It’s also great for meal prepping – I often make a large batch and freeze half for a quick and easy weeknight meal later.
• Adaptability: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables! Add some potatoes, zucchini, or even sweet potatoes for added flavor and texture. You can also switch up the herbs to suit your taste preferences.
This recipe has become a staple in my meal rotation, not only for its ease and deliciousness but also for the sense of comfort it brings. Coming home to the aroma of this simmering stew after a long day is truly invigorating. It's more than just a meal; it's a symbol of home, nourishment, and the simple pleasures of life.
Beyond the Recipe:
This stew is a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly special. It’s a reminder that nourishing ourselves doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. In the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding shortcuts and easy solutions is often key, and this slow cooker recipe is the perfect example of that. I encourage you to try it and adapt it to your own preferences. Cooking should be enjoyable, and this recipe makes it easy.
Beyond the practicality, there’s a certain sentimental value attached to this dish for me. The warmth of the stew reflects the warmth of my family, and the sharing of this simple meal creates lasting memories. It's about more than just sustenance; it's about connection and the joy of simple things. It's a reminder that even amidst the chaos, there's always time for a comforting, delicious meal, shared with loved ones.
So, give this recipe a try. Let me know what you think in the comments below. I hope it brings you the same joy and comfort it brings to my family!
