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 cups canned white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 carrot, chopped; 1 celery stalk, chopped; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Favorite Comfort Food Favorites

We love to gather around the table on Sundays, and this creamy white bean stew has become a staple in our family. The comforting texture and rich flavors combine to create a dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome. I enjoy how easy it is to prepare, allowing me to spend quality time with loved ones while it simmers away. With every spoonful, the hearty beans and aromatic spices deliver warmth and satisfaction, making it a perfect way to wind down the week.

Created by

Isobel Fairfax

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:01:36.684Z

In my journey of creating comforting meals, I discovered that beans are not just nutritious but incredibly versatile. The creamy texture of this stew comes from blending a portion of the beans, which also thickens the broth deliciously. I usually add a dash of lemon juice at the end to balance the flavors, and it makes all the difference.

At first, I was skeptical about using only plant-based ingredients, but this recipe has proven that deliciousness doesn't have to come from meat. With a few herbs and spices, I've transformed humble white beans into a gourmet experience the whole family loves. Just add some crusty bread for dipping!

        Why You'll Love This Stew
        Creamy texture that warms the soul
Loaded with nutritious white beans and fresh vegetables
Perfect for make-ahead meals and easy weeknight dinners

      

The Role of White Beans

White beans are the heart of this creamy stew, providing a rich source of protein and fiber that contributes to the dish's hearty nature. Varieties like cannellini or great northern beans work exceptionally well due to their buttery texture, which complements the creaminess of the coconut milk. When selecting canned beans, opt for low-sodium varieties to better control the salt levels in your stew, ensuring a balanced flavor profile.

To enhance the creaminess without relying solely on the coconut milk, I sometimes incorporate a handful of soaked cashews into the blending process. This not only thickens the stew but also adds a subtle nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the thyme. If you prefer a different legume, chickpeas can also be a delightful substitute, lending a slightly different texture to the dish.

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the perfect creamy texture involves a bit of technique. When blending the stew, aim for a mix of smooth and chunky consistency. This method creates a more appealing mouthfeel as you get pops of whole beans alongside the velvety backdrop. If you don't have an immersion blender, carefully transferring part of the stew to a countertop blender works just as well. Just remember to secure the lid tightly to prevent splatters while blending hot liquids.

Keep an eye on your heat levels during cooking. A gentle simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully without overcooking the beans, which can lead to mushiness. If you notice the beans starting to break down too much, reduce the heat and give it a gentle stir to keep them intact. For an even thicker stew, you can let it simmer uncovered for an additional 10 minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy white bean stew pairs wonderfully with hearty, crusty bread that can soak up the flavors. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad, such as a simple arugula mix dressed with lemon and olive oil, to add a bright contrast to the richness of the stew. For a complete meal, you could also introduce some protein; grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp can be served on top for those who prefer a heartier option.

As for storage, this stew keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container. If you want to make it even further in advance, this stew freezes beautifully. Store it in portion-sized containers and thaw in the refrigerator overnight for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before starting to make the preparation smooth and efficient.

Ingredients

2 cups canned white beans, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 carrot, chopped
1 celery stalk, chopped
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup coconut milk
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious creamy white bean stew.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, minced garlic, chopped carrot, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Beans and Broth

Stir in the white beans, vegetable broth, and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.

Blend for Creaminess

Using an immersion blender, blend about half of the stew until smooth. This adds a creamy texture while keeping some whole beans for a hearty bite.

Finish with Coconut Milk

Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes until it’s heated through.

Serve

Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy it with crusty bread!

Feel free to customize the stew with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of chili flakes before serving. This helps enhance the brightness of the dish.

Ingredient Insights

The incorporation of coconut milk not only contributes a delightful creaminess but also adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements of the stew. If you're looking for a lower-fat option, light coconut milk can work well without sacrificing much flavor. However, avoid using plain milk or cream, as they won’t provide the same depth of taste and may alter the consistency you desire.

Fresh parsley not only serves as a lovely garnish but also brightens the dish's flavors. I recommend chopping it roughly right before serving to maximize its freshness. Additionally, you can experiment with other herbs such as thyme or basil to introduce new flavor profiles to the stew.

Dietary Adjustments

For those avoiding gluten, this stew is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences. If you're looking to keep it vegan, ensure that all your vegetable broth is plant-based and check the labels on any canned beans you use.

If you want to spice things up, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika during the cooking process. These can elevate the stew’s flavor profile, adding warmth without overpowering the creaminess of the dish. Alternatively, a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can also brighten the entire bowl.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, you can use dried beans! Just be sure to soak them overnight and boil them until tender before adding to the stew.

→ Is this stew vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is entirely plant-based and packed with flavor.

→ How can I store the leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to a month.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

Crusty bread, a side salad, or even rice complement this creamy stew wonderfully.