When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm stew to wrap you in comfort. This cozy white bean and mushroom stew is my go-to for those frosty days. It’s hearty, filling, and packed with delicious flavors that just scream warmth. I remember the first time I made it for a family gathering; everyone gathered around the table, bowls in hand, and the smiles were contagious! It quickly became a staple in our home, especially during the holidays. The combination of creamy white beans and earthy mushrooms creates such a delightful texture that it warms you from the inside out. Trust me, once you try this stew, you’ll find yourself making it again and again, just like I do!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this cozy white bean and mushroom stew truly special. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups white beans: I usually soak these overnight for the best texture. You can use dried beans for a heartier flavor, but canned beans are a great shortcut if you’re short on time!
- 1 cup mushrooms: I love using sliced cremini or button mushrooms, as they add such an earthy depth to the stew.
- 1 onion: A chopped yellow or white onion works wonders; it adds a nice sweetness when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced garlic is a must for that aromatic base we all adore.
- 4 cups vegetable broth: Use a low-sodium variety if you’re watching your salt intake. Homemade broth makes a world of difference, but store-bought is perfectly fine too!
- 2 carrots: Diced carrots add a pop of color and natural sweetness—don’t skip them!
- 2 celery stalks: Diced celery adds a nice crunch and flavor balance to the stew.
- 1 teaspoon thyme: Dried thyme brings a lovely herby note. Fresh thyme can also be used if you have it on hand!
- 1 teaspoon rosemary: This fragrant herb complements the mushrooms beautifully—just a little goes a long way.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Always season to your liking; it really makes the flavors pop!
How to Prepare Instructions
Making this cozy white bean and mushroom stew is a joy, and I promise it’s easier than you might think! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a steaming pot of deliciousness ready to warm your soul.
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Start by draining and rinsing your soaked white beans. If you’re using canned beans, simply drain and rinse them to remove excess sodium.
- In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of oil and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they’re soft and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes. You want them to be translucent and tender.
- Next, toss in the sliced mushrooms, diced carrots, and celery. Stir everything together and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the veggies are tender and the mushrooms have released their juices. The smell at this point will be heavenly!
- Now, it’s time to add the star ingredients! Add the rinsed beans, vegetable broth, dried thyme, and rosemary. Give it all a good stir to combine.
- Bring your stew to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes. This allows all those lovely flavors to meld together perfectly.
- Once it’s done simmering, taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. I always recommend starting with a little and adding more to your preference.
- Serve the stew warm in bowls and enjoy the cozy vibes!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to cozy dishes like this white bean and mushroom stew, you might be curious about the nutrition. Here’s a general breakdown per serving, but keep in mind that the exact values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use:
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Always remember to check your specific ingredients for the most accurate nutritional information! Enjoy your hearty stew guilt-free!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- This cozy white bean and mushroom stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings.
- It’s hearty and filling, making it a satisfying main dish that everyone will adore.
- With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s an easy recipe that even beginner cooks can tackle!
- This stew is not only delicious but also packed with plant-based protein and fiber, making it a healthy choice.
- Plus, it’s versatile! You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs.
Tips for Success
To make your cozy white bean and mushroom stew truly outstanding, here are some pro tips that I swear by! First, if you want a deeper flavor, try sautéing the mushrooms until they’re nicely browned before adding the other veggies. This adds a delicious umami boost!
If you don’t have white beans on hand, feel free to substitute them with chickpeas or even lentils for a different twist. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, especially with lentils.
Another great tip is to add a splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice right before serving for a pop of brightness that really elevates the flavors. And don’t forget, this stew is perfect for meal prep—make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week! Just warm it up on the stovetop and it’ll taste just as amazing as the first day!
Variations
One of the best things about this cozy white bean and mushroom stew is how adaptable it is! If you’re feeling adventurous, why not switch up the veggies? Try adding diced sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness or throw in some spinach or kale right at the end for an extra nutrient boost. I also love adding a handful of frozen peas—so vibrant and sweet!
If you’re in the mood for a little heat, consider tossing in some red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. For a different flavor profile, experiment with spices like smoked paprika or cumin to give the stew a warm, smoky depth. And if you want to make it even creamier, just stir in a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of cream right before serving. The possibilities are endless, so have fun with it!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your cozy white bean and mushroom stew is super easy! Just let it cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for about 4-5 days. If you want to save it for later, you can freeze it for up to 3 months—just make sure to leave some space in the container, as it will expand when frozen.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it’s warmed through. You might want to add a splash of broth or water if it thickens up too much. Enjoy the cozy warmth all over again!
FAQ Section
Can I use different types of beans?
Absolutely! While I love white beans for their creaminess, you can easily swap them for chickpeas or even kidney beans. Just adjust the cooking times as needed.
Is this stew gluten-free?
Yes, this cozy white bean and mushroom stew is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check your vegetable broth to ensure it’s gluten-free as well.
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Definitely! Just sauté the onion and garlic first, then add all the ingredients to your slow cooker. Cook on low for about 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, and you’ll have a delectable stew waiting for you.
What can I serve with this stew?
This stew is perfect on its own, but if you want to elevate your meal, serve it with some crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete dining experience.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for later enjoyment. Just reheat gently on the stovetop before serving!
Cozy White Bean and Mushroom Stew Recipe for Chilly Nights
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A warm and hearty white bean and mushroom stew perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients
- 2 cups white beans, soaked overnight
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Drain and rinse the soaked beans.
- In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- Add mushrooms, carrots, and celery. Cook until tender.
- Add beans, vegetable broth, thyme, and rosemary.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Use canned beans for a quicker option.
- Feel free to add other vegetables.
- This stew freezes well.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: cozy white bean and mushroom stew recipe
