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 (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1/2 cup coconut milk; 1 large onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 1 celery stalk, diced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Family Favorites

We gathered around the table on a chilly Sunday afternoon, and I was inspired to create a warm bowl of creamy white bean stew. As I cooked, the rich aroma filled the air, inviting everyone to join in. This dish combines tender white beans with a medley of vegetables, all enveloped in a silky, herb-infused broth. It’s the perfect comfort food that warms the soul and is healthy enough to enjoy guilt-free. I can't wait for you to experience this hearty stew with your loved ones!

Created by

India Rutherford

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:27:35.030Z

I wanted to create a dish that’s not only filling but also nourishing, and this creamy white bean stew hit the mark beautifully. After some experimentation, I realized that blending a portion of the beans creates a rich texture while keeping the rest whole for that delightful bite. The addition of fresh herbs enhances the flavor profile and makes every spoonful a delight. My family absolutely loved it!

This stew is not just a meal; it’s an experience. I often prepare it on Sundays, making it a tradition to enjoy together as we catch up on the week. It’s easy to make in large batches and freezes wonderfully, meaning I can enjoy it anytime. Take advantage of seasonal vegetables to personalize the stew and make it your own!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that hugs every bean perfectly
Nutritious ingredients provide a boost of energy
Perfectly suited for family gatherings or cozy nights in

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this creamy white bean stew plays a pivotal role in building flavor and texture. The white beans not only provide protein and fiber but also contribute to the stew's signature creaminess. Canned white beans are a fantastic time-saver, but you can also use dried beans; just remember to soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the stew for the best consistency.

Coconut milk is the secret ingredient that gives this stew its velvety texture and a hint of sweetness. If you're looking for a lower-fat option, you can substitute with unsweetened almond milk, though it will slightly alter the flavor. The vegetable broth is essential for infusing the entire dish with rich, savory notes—opt for a low-sodium variety to better control the salt balance.

Cooking Technique Tips

Sautéing the aromatic vegetables at the beginning is crucial for developing the stew’s depth of flavor. Aim for a medium heat to ensure that the onions become translucent and the carrots soften without burning. If you notice the vegetables sticking to the pot, adding a splash of broth can help deglaze the pan and capture those tasty browned bits for extra flavor.

When simmering the stew, keep the heat low to maintain a gentle bubble. This helps meld all the flavors together beautifully. If you desire a creamier stew, blending a portion of the mix will create a luscious texture without needing to add heavy cream. A standard immersion blender works wonderfully here, but if you don’t have one, carefully transfer a few ladles into a countertop blender.

Ingredients for Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew

Ingredients

2 cans (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup vegetable broth
1/2 cup coconut milk
1 large onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Gather all the ingredients before you start to ensure a smooth cooking experience!

Cooking Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Combine the Beans and Broth

Add the drained white beans, vegetable broth, and coconut milk to the pot. Stir well to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.

Add Herbs and Season

Stir in thyme and rosemary, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the stew simmer for approximately 20 minutes. For a creamier texture, you can blend a few ladles of the stew before returning it to the pot.

Serve and Garnish

Once cooked, ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm with crusty bread on the side.

Feel free to adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with adding your favorite vegetables or spices! This stew is forgiving and can accommodate whatever you have on hand.

Storage and Reheating

This stew is great for meal prep as it stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the stew thickens too much during storage, feel free to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

For longer storage, consider freezing the stew in airtight containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer. To defrost, transfer it to the refrigerator a day before you plan to enjoy it. Reheat as mentioned above, adding a little extra liquid if needed.

Serving Suggestions

For a heartier meal, consider serving the creamy white bean stew with a side of crusty sourdough or cornbread. The bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of the rich broth. Adding a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette on the side can also balance the creaminess and make it a well-rounded meal.

Feel free to incorporate other vegetables too; kale or spinach could be tossed in during the last few minutes of simmering for extra nutrients and color. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving could take the dish to another level if you're not keeping it vegan.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, just soak and cook them beforehand to ensure they are tender.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

The stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan-friendly with the use of vegetable broth and coconut milk.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

This creamy white bean stew pairs perfectly with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh garden salad.