Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew

Name: Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans of cannellini beans, rinsed and drained; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup coconut milk; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making this Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew as a comforting meal for family gatherings. It’s hearty, wholesome, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect dish for cozy evenings. Each spoonful is filled with creamy beans and aromatic vegetables that warm you from the inside out. I appreciate how simple ingredients can create such a rich and satisfying stew. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to showcase seasonal vegetables, adding color and nutrients to our plates. It’s truly a family favorite that I look forward to every week!

Created by

Camilla Rhodes

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:28:18.152Z

When I first made this Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew, I was amazed at how quickly it came together without sacrificing flavor. I experimented with various herbs and spices until I landed on the perfect blend that enhances the creaminess of the beans. I recommend using fresh herbs to elevate the dish, as they add a vibrant freshness.

One lesson I learned is to allow the stew to simmer gently, which helps meld the flavors beautifully. It’s essential to stir occasionally and monitor the thickness, as adding a splash of vegetable broth can adjust the consistency to your preference. This has become my go-to recipe for chilly Sundays.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture balanced with vibrant vegetables
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy Sundays
Healthy plant-based meal that's satisfying

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The stars of this stew are the cannellini beans, which provide a creamy texture and rich flavor. Their smooth consistency makes them an excellent base for the stew, absorbing the flavors of the spices and vegetables. If cannellini beans aren't available, you can substitute them with navy beans or great northern beans, but the taste and texture may vary slightly.

Vegetables such as onions, carrots, and celery not only add depth of flavor but also contribute essential nutrients to the dish. It’s important to cut them into evenly sized pieces to ensure they cook uniformly. Sautéing them first helps to release their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall taste of the stew. You can add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers alongside to diversify the flavors.

Cooking Techniques and Tips

When sautéing the vegetables, make sure to stir them frequently to avoid burning. You want them to become soft and slightly translucent, which usually takes around 5 minutes. If the vegetables start to stick to the pot, consider adding a splash of vegetable broth to deglaze the bottom, lifting those flavorful bits.

Simmering is crucial in allowing the ingredients to meld together. Keep an eye on the stew during this period; you want a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil. A good indication that it’s simmering correctly is when small bubbles break the surface. This method ensures the flavors develop nicely without overcooking the beans.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

This stew can be served as a robust main dish, but it pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for added texture. A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end not only enhances the presentation but also contributes a fresh brightness to each bowl. You could also add a squeeze of lemon for an extra zing if desired.

As for storage, this stew keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors may deepen over time, making leftovers even more delicious. For longer storage, consider freezing it in airtight containers for up to three months. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or water to loosen the texture, as it can thicken when chilled.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 cans of cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup coconut milk
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables have softened.

Add Garlic and Spices

Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and smoked paprika. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Add the rinsed cannellini beans and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Simmer the Stew

Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes.

Add Coconut Milk

Stir in the coconut milk and let it simmer for another 5 minutes until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Top with fresh parsley and serve warm, enjoying with crusty bread.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a splash of lemon juice before serving. You can also incorporate other vegetables like spinach or kale to enhance the nutritional value.

Make-Ahead Options

If you're planning a family gathering, this stew can be made ahead of time. Prepare it up to the point of adding coconut milk, refrigerate overnight, and then simply stir in the coconut milk and heat before serving. This allows the flavors to develop and ensures a quick meal when needed.

To save time during the week, you can also chop your vegetables in advance. Keep them stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, so you can easily toss them into the pot when it's time to cook. This step can cut down your cooking time significantly on busy Sundays.

Flavor Variations

For those looking to spice things up, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sauté phase for a mild kick. Alternatively, you can incorporate diced tomatoes or spinach at the end for extra color and flavor. This not only elevates the dish but also boosts its nutritional profile.

Another variation could be using different herbs. While thyme is classic in this recipe, feel free to experiment with rosemary or even a bay leaf for a different flavor dimension. Just remember to adjust the quantities, as these herbs can be more potent than thyme.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes, this stew can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove.

→ Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! All the ingredients used are plant-based, making this stew a perfect vegan option.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, this stew freezes well. Just ensure it’s in an airtight container and used within 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.