Missy Robbins' Speedy Kale and White Bean Stew
The first thing you’ll notice about this stew is that you can cook and serve it in about the time it would normally take for you to sauté greens. The second is that the broth is made from a second-string ingredient that other recipes tend to leave behind—the discarded juice from canned tomatoes. If you’re irked right now that you want to make this stew and don’t have a stash of leftover juice on hand—don’t worry, Missy Robbins and I thought of that! She also allows for tomato passata (also labelled strained tomatoes), a similarly thick, rich tomato puree sold by the bottle or box. Or you can do as I’ve been doing lately: Buy the cans of tomatoes for the juice, then hang onto the tomatoes for dinner later in the week (or freeze them). Adapted slightly from Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner… Life (Rizzoli, 2017).
The first thing you’ll notice about this stew is that you can cook and serve it in about the time it would normally take for you to sauté greens. The second is that the broth is made from a second-string ingredient that other recipes tend to leave behind—the discarded juice from canned tomatoes. If you’re irked right now that you want to make this stew and don’t have a stash of leftover juice on hand—don’t worry, Missy Robbins and I thought of that! She also allows for tomato passata (also labelled strained tomatoes), a similarly thick, rich tomato puree sold by the bottle or box. Or you can do as I’ve been doing lately: Buy the cans of tomatoes for the juice, then hang onto the tomatoes for dinner later in the week (or freeze them). Adapted slightly from Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner… Life (Rizzoli, 2017).
- Carbohydrate 2.3890525 g
- Cholesterol 22 mg
- Fat 7.2840725 g
- Fiber 0.246600002288818 g
- Protein 9.8868675 g
- Saturated Fat 4.349925 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (29g)
- Sodium 685.2749 mg
- Sugar 2.14245249771118 g
- Trans Fat 0.4642875 g
- Calories 114 calories
Step-by-step
- Remove the leaves from the woody stems of the kale and wash leaves. Save the stems for another use.
- Heat a shallow saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the olive oil and garlic to the pan and sweat until aromatic but not browned. Add the chile flakes.
- Rip the kale leaves into rough, 2-inch pieces and add to the pan. Lightly sweat until well-coated in the oil and starting to wilt, 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add the San Marzano juice and cook the kale until tender, about 10 to 12 minutes. If using passata and the juice is too thick, add a cup of water, which will evaporate as it cooks. The kale will also release a bit of water.
- Add the cannellini beans to the kale just to heat them through.
- Season with the salt, stir to incorporate, and taste. Add more salt if necessary.
- Transfer the kale into a large serving bowl or two soup bowls and top with Parmigiano-Reggiano.
Missy Robbins' Speedy Kale and White Bean Stew: A Weeknight Wonder
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Finding quick, healthy, and delicious meals is a constant challenge, but this recipe for Missy Robbins' Speedy Kale and White Bean Stew has become a lifesaver. It's ready in under 20 minutes, bursting with flavor, and surprisingly nutritious. The secret? Using the often-discarded juice from canned tomatoes as the base for the broth. This clever trick not only saves time but also adds a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
I've always appreciated quick recipes, but this one really stands out. The simplicity of the ingredients, coupled with the unexpected depth of flavor from the tomato juice, makes this a true weeknight wonder. I've adapted it slightly to fit my family's tastes, adding a touch more garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. The best part? My kids actually enjoy it! Getting them to eat their greens has always been a battle, but this stew somehow manages to sneak in a healthy dose of kale without any complaints.
Beyond the Recipe: Embracing Simplicity in a Hectic Life
This recipe is more than just a quick meal; it's a reflection of my approach to life. I’m a firm believer in embracing simplicity, particularly in the kitchen. Life is hectic enough without spending hours slaving over a hot stove. This stew exemplifies that philosophy perfectly. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it delivers maximum flavor and satisfaction. The beauty lies in its simplicity – no complicated techniques or obscure ingredients are required. It’s perfect for those evenings when you're short on time but still want a wholesome and flavorful meal.
Tips and Variations:
For a vegetarian option: Ensure your Parmigiano-Reggiano is vegetarian-friendly, as some cheeses contain animal rennet.
Spice it up: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your preference. A dash of cayenne pepper could add a nice extra kick.
Add protein: For a heartier meal, add some cooked sausage, chickpeas, or white beans.
Seasonal variations: Substitute other leafy greens like spinach or chard for the kale.
Make it ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day! Make a larger batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner the following day.
The Power of Leftovers:
One of the greatest advantages of this recipe is that it makes fantastic leftovers. I often double the recipe and enjoy the leftovers for lunch the next day. It reheats beautifully and the flavors meld together even more wonderfully. This makes for a quick and easy lunch without compromising on quality or taste. The convenience alone makes this a recipe worth revisiting again and again.
More than a Meal: A Moment of Peace:
In the rush of daily life, it’s easy to forget to savor the small things. But creating a simple, healthy meal like this stew allows me to pause, connect with my family, and enjoy a moment of peace amidst the chaos. It’s a small act of self-care, a reminder to slow down and appreciate the nourishment both for my body and my soul. This is more than just a recipe; it's a ritual, a way to bring a little calm and deliciousness into my otherwise whirlwind week.
In conclusion, Missy Robbins’ Speedy Kale and White Bean Stew is more than just a delicious and quick meal; it's a testament to the power of simplicity, resourcefulness, and the joy of creating something healthy and satisfying without sacrificing precious time. It's a recipe I wholeheartedly recommend to any busy individual looking for a flavorful and nutritious addition to their weeknight repertoire.
