Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew

Name: Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups white beans, soaked and drained; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 teaspoon thyme; 1 teaspoon rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for sautéing

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making my Sunday Creamy White Bean Stew because it’s a comforting dish that warms the soul. The rich flavors of garlic, herbs, and a medley of vegetables come together to create a creamy texture that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Cooking this stew on a lazy Sunday fills my kitchen with delightful aromas, bringing my family together for a cozy meal. It’s a dish that I love to serve with crusty bread for dipping, making it a perfect choice for a relaxing family gathering.

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:31:13.142Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of a creamy white bean stew, I was hesitant. Could a dish made primarily from beans be so hearty? Trying out various methods, I found that blending part of the stew creates a delightful creaminess that adds depth to each bite. I experimented with different herbs and spices, and now I can't imagine Sundays without this comforting dish.

The trick I learned is to sauté the garlic and onions before adding them to the stew. This not only enhances their flavors but also infuses the broth with a beautiful aroma that makes everyone eager for dinner. Every spoonful is a reminder of why I love cooking on Sundays.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that's absolutely comforting
Packed with nutritious ingredients that are wholesome
Perfect for meal prep with leftovers that taste even better

      

The Importance of Soaking Beans

Soaking the white beans is a crucial step that helps to reduce cooking time and improve the texture of the stew. By soaking them for at least 8 hours or overnight, you allow the beans to absorb water, which softens them and makes them more digestible. If you're short on time, a quick soak method involves bringing the beans to a boil in water for 2 minutes, then letting them sit for 1 hour before draining and proceeding with the recipe.

Additionally, soaking enhances the flavor absorption during cooking, allowing the beans to take on the rich, herb-infused broth. This is particularly important for achieving a balanced taste in your stew, where each ingredient contributes harmoniously to the overall dish.

Blending for the Perfect Texture

Blending a portion of the stew creates that signature creamy texture without needing heavy cream or excess fat. After cooking the beans until tender, using an immersion blender or transferring to a regular blender will yield a smooth consistency while retaining some whole beans for texture. Be careful not to blend too long; a few pulses should suffice to achieve creaminess without turning the mixture into a puree.

If you prefer a thicker stew, consider blending more of the mixture. Conversely, if you enjoy a chunkier stew, you can simply mash a few beans with a fork before blending. This technique not only enhances the mouthfeel but also helps the flavors meld beautifully, creating a luscious base for the vegetables and herbs.

Flavor Variations and Additions

This creamy white bean stew is a flexible dish that can adapt to your taste preferences. Feel free to add extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even leafy greens such as spinach or kale for added nutrition. If you want a bit of heat, incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes can spice things up while complementing the creamy base.

For protein lovers, adding shredded cooked chicken or turkey can enhance the heartiness of the stew. If you want to keep it vegetarian or vegan, try adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor profile that heightens the richness of the coconut milk.

Ingredients

Stew Ingredients

2 cups white beans, soaked and drained
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup coconut milk
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for sautéing

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add the Vegetables

Next, add the chopped carrots and celery to the pot, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.

Cook the Beans

Add the soaked white beans and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 25-30 minutes until the beans are tender.

Blend for Creaminess

Once the beans are cooked, remove half of the stew and blend it until smooth. Return the blended portion to the pot along with the coconut milk, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir well and heat through.

Serve

Ladle the creamy stew into bowls and serve with crusty bread. Enjoy this comfort dish with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider garnishing the stew with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving. This not only enhances the presentation but adds a bright note to the rich stew.

Storage and Reheating

This stew stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen over time, making leftovers even more delicious. If you want to prepare it in advance, you can follow the recipe steps up to the blending point and store the unblended portion until you’re ready to finish the dish.

For longer storage, consider freezing the stew. Transfer it to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can last for 2-3 months in the freezer; simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat, gradually stirring until warm.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider serving the stew with crusty artisan bread for dipping. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a drizzle of olive oil on top adds a pop of color and fresh flavor just before serving. Pairing the stew with a light green salad can also balance the creaminess beautifully.

If you're hosting a larger gathering, you could serve the stew in a bread bowl. Simply hollow out a round loaf of bread, fill it with the stew, and garnish with herbs for a rustic presentation that is sure to impress your guests.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your stew turns out too thick, simply add a bit of vegetable broth or water during the reheating process until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, you can let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate, thickening the stew naturally.

Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving! Depending on the saltiness of your broth or the freshness of your herbs, additional salt and pepper may be necessary to achieve the perfect balance of flavors. Keep in mind that flavors develop after cooking, so be sure to give it a final tweak right before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Yes, using canned beans can save time. Just ensure to rinse them well and reduce the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is this stew vegan?

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

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to include any seasonal vegetables you enjoy, such as spinach or bell peppers.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove before serving.