Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew

Name: Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked white beans (cannellini or navy beans); 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 1 celery stalk, diced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love to make this Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew as a comforting meal after a busy week. The rich and creamy texture is perfect for warming up on chilly days. Plus, it’s packed with protein and fiber, making it not only delicious but nutritious too. I find that slow-cooking the beans really enhances their flavor, and the addition of fresh herbs elevates the dish. It's a family favorite that I can easily prepare in advance, leaving us with more time to enjoy together after dinner.

Created by

Harper Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:13:12.799Z

When I first experimented with this creamy white bean stew, I wanted to create a dish that was both satisfying and hearty. The key to achieving that creamy consistency is using a combination of mashed and whole beans, which gives the stew a wonderful texture. I also incorporated a splash of coconut milk, adding a subtle sweetness that balances beautifully with the savory herbs.

One of my favorite tips is to let the stew sit for a few hours or overnight, as the flavors meld together and deepen. This stew is so versatile; you can add seasonal vegetables or your favorite greens for an even more nutritious boost.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy and rich texture that satisfies the soul
Versatile and can be customized with seasonal vegetables
Nutritious and filling, perfect for meatless meals

      

Understanding Bean Choices

The choice of beans is crucial in this stew, as they provide the foundation for both texture and flavor. Cannellini beans offer a creamy consistency due to their soft texture when cooked, while navy beans are smaller and slightly firmer, contributing a hearty bite. Both types are high in protein and fiber, making them excellent choices for a filling and nutritious meal. If you're in a pinch, you can also use canned beans; just make sure to rinse and drain them thoroughly to reduce sodium content.

Consider experimenting with different beans in your next batch of this stew! You can try borlotti or pinto beans for a unique flavor twist. Each type brings its own personality to the dish, influencing the final creamy texture and rich flavor profile. If opting for dried beans, soak and cook them beforehand, allowing for more control over their doneness and creaminess.

Perfecting the Stew's Flavor

The combination of dried thyme and smoked paprika elevates the flavor of the stew, providing depth without overwhelming the palate. Thyme works harmoniously with the sweetness of the carrots and the savory notes of the celery, while smoked paprika introduces a subtle warmth that elevates the creaminess of the coconut milk. You can balance or modify these flavors with fresh herbs like rosemary or adding a squeeze of lemon before serving to brighten the dish.

For an added layer of complexity, I sometimes incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of white wine during the simmering stage. This small addition brings a lovely warmth and acidity that brightens the creamy base and enhances the overall taste experience. Just remember to adjust your seasoning at the end to accommodate any additional ingredients.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this comforting stew:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked white beans (cannellini or navy beans)
1 cup vegetable broth
1 cup coconut milk
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to prepare any additional toppings you may want to add.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious stew:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.

Add Beans and Broth

Stir in the cooked white beans, vegetable broth, coconut milk, thyme, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

Simmer the Stew

Reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash some of the beans against the pot.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy your comforting meal!

Feel free to pair this stew with crusty bread or a side salad.

Pro Tips

For an added punch of flavor, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of your favorite hot sauce before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This stew is ideal for make-ahead meals, as it develops even richer flavors after sitting in the refrigerator overnight. After the stew has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the consistency if necessary.

For long-term storage, consider freezing portions of the stew. Ladle the cooled stew into freezer-safe containers and store for up to three months. To reheat, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then gently reheat on the stove. You may need to add a bit more broth or coconut milk to restore the original creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

When serving this creamy white bean stew, consider pairing it with rustic bread or a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal. A crusty baguette is perfect for sopping up the creamy stew, while a salad of mixed greens dressed in a simple vinaigrette will offset the richness of the dish. For a more filling experience, serve it over quinoa or brown rice, adding more protein and fiber.

For an engaging presentation, top each bowl with a drizzle of good-quality olive oil before serving. You can also experiment with garnishes, like toasted pine nuts or a dollop of dairy-free yogurt, to provide texture and a hint of crunch. Feel free to get creative with your toppings!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Yes, canned beans are a great time-saver. Just make sure to rinse and drain them first.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

The stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

→ Can this recipe be made vegan?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are plant-based, making it great for vegan diets.

→ What can I add for extra protein?

You can add cooked quinoa, lentils, or even some diced tofu for extra protein.