Bean and Vegetable Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew made with a variety of beans, colorful vegetables, and aromatic spices. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a weeknight dinner, as it's easy to make and packed with nutrients.
A Delicious One-Pot Meal
The Perfect Blend of Beans and Vegetables
Bean and vegetable stew is a classic dish that combines the natural sweetness of beans with the freshness of vegetables. This recipe uses a medley of colorful vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers, which add texture and flavor to the stew. Alongside the main ingredients, this stew also includes aromatic spices like cumin and paprika, which give it a deep and satisfying taste.
Choosing the Right Beans
There are many types of beans that can be used in this recipe, but some popular options include kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans. Each type has its own unique flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment with different varieties to find your favorite combination.
A Guide to Preparing the Stew
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried beans (such as kidney or black beans)
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 large zucchini, sliced
- 2 medium bell peppers, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions
- Rinse the dried beans and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
- Drain and rinse the beans, then add them to a large pot with the diced carrots, sliced zucchini, and chopped onion.
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add the cumin and paprika to the skillet and stir for 1-2 minutes.
- Add the garlic mixture to the pot with the beans and vegetables, followed by the vegetable broth.
- Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot over rice or with some crusty bread on the side
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro
- Offer a dollop of sour cream or yogurt as an optional topping