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Vegan Butter Bean Stew

Easy Vegan Butter Bean Stew (40-Minutes)

This Vegan Butter Bean Stew is a hearty, nutrient-packed Mediterranean-inspired dish made with tender butter beans, aromatic vegetables, savory herbs, and a rich tomato base. It comes together in just 40 minutes and provides a comforting, protein-rich meal perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
With flexible add-ins like greens, coconut milk, or spices, this stew is adaptable to any taste preference. It is easy to prepare, freezer-friendly, and ideal for anyone looking for a warm, wholesome plant-based meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean, Vegan
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

Base Stew

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 carrots diced
  • 2 celery stalks diced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced or crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cans (15 oz) each butter beans drained and rinsed
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice optional, for brightness

Optional Add-Ins

  • 1 cup chopped kale or spinach
  • ½ cup coconut milk for creaminess
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Sauté the Aromatics

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until softened.

Add Garlic and Spices

  • Stir in the garlic, thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, and bay leaf. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.

Add Tomato Paste and Tomatoes

  • Add tomato paste and mix until the vegetables are coated. Pour in the crushed or diced tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Add Beans and Broth

  • Stir in the butter beans and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Simmer the Stew

  • Cover and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until flavors have blended and the stew thickens.

Optional Add-Ins

  • Add spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking, or stir in coconut milk for a creamier texture.

Adjust Seasoning

  • Taste and season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice if desired.

Serve

  • Remove the bay leaf. Ladle into bowls and garnish with parsley.
Keyword Vegan Butter Bean Stew