Get cozy this winter with a warm and nourishing bowl of stew. Not only are stews comforting, but they’re also incredibly versatile and can be made with a wide variety of ingredients to suit your dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meat-based option or a plant-based alternative, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll share 20 delicious and nutritious stew recipes that are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. From classic beef and barley to innovative vegan and vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab a spoon and let’s dive in!
Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of protein-rich lentils, tender vegetables, and aromatic spices. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s ready in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken and Quinoa Stew
This hearty and flavorful stew is a perfect meal solution for busy days when you need a comforting and nutritious option. With the ease of slow cooking, this recipe requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, zucchini, bell peppers)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the chicken, quinoa, vegetables, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, and olive oil to a slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Stir in chopped parsley if using.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Moroccan Chickpea and Sweet Potato Stew
This hearty stew is a flavorful blend of chickpeas, sweet potatoes, and aromatic spices, perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of tender vegetables and creamy chickpeas will transport you to the vibrant streets of Morocco.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
2. Add the sweet potatoes, chickpeas, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and Barley Stew with Root Vegetables
This comforting stew is a perfect cold-weather treat, packed with tender beef, nutty barley, and a medley of root vegetables. A flavorful broth brings everything together for a satisfying and nourishing meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck or shank, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup pearled barley
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups all-purpose beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef in batches over medium-high heat, about 5 minutes per batch. Remove from pot.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, carrots, parsnips, barley, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return browned beef to the pot, cover, and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until beef is tender and vegetables are cooked through.
Cooking Time: About 2 hours total, including browning time.
Spicy Black Bean and Kale Stew
This hearty stew is a flavorful blend of tender black beans, crisp kale, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add the chopped kale and stir until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Curry Lentil Stew
A flavorful and nutritious stew that combines the warmth of curry with the comfort of lentils, all wrapped up in a rich coconut sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in a little water until tender.
2. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let stew cook for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turkey and White Bean Stew with Spinach
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of comforting flavors, featuring tender turkey, creamy white beans, and nutritious spinach. Serve hot with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the turkey over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the chicken broth, cannellini beans, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the turkey is cooked through.
4. Stir in the spinach leaves; cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vegetable Minestrone Stew
A hearty and comforting Italian-inspired stew filled with a medley of colorful vegetables, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, carrots, and tomatoes)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Coconut Chicken Stew
A creamy and aromatic Thai-inspired stew that combines the flavors of coconut milk, lemongrass, and chili peppers with tender chicken and vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium-sized onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 stalk of lemongrass, bruised and chopped
– 1 can (14 oz) of coconut milk
– 1 cup of mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, potatoes)
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon of grated ginger
– 1-2 Thai red chilies, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and lemongrass; cook until onions are translucent.
3. Add chicken, coconut milk, cumin, ginger, chilies, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Add mixed vegetables; cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until they are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Quinoa and Chickpea Stew with Turmeric
This hearty stew combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the creamy texture of chickpeas, all infused with the warm, earthy essence of turmeric. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a nutritious lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic until softened.
3. Add chickpeas, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Combine cooked quinoa with the chickpea mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Simmer stew for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Beef and Tomato Stew
This rich and flavorful stew is a perfect comfort food for any occasion. A blend of tender beef, fresh tomatoes, and spices will transport your taste buds to the heart of Mexico.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can crushed tomatoes)
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onions, garlic, bell pepper, chili powder, and cumin. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mediterranean Fish Stew with Olives
A flavorful and aromatic stew that combines the freshness of Mediterranean herbs with the richness of olive oil, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound firm white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add fish, olives, tomatoes, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer; reduce heat to low and cook for 10-12 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
African Peanut Stew with Sweet Potatoes
Savor the rich flavors of West Africa with this hearty and comforting stew, featuring sweet potatoes, peanuts, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound beef or chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup peanut butter
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the beef or chicken and cook until browned.
3. Add the sweet potatoes, peanut butter, broth, water, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Borscht Beet Stew with Lean Beef
A classic Eastern European stew that’s both hearty and flavorful, this Borscht recipe combines tender lean beef with sweet and earthy beets. Perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting meal anytime.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean beef (such as sirloin or round), sliced into thin strips
– 2 medium beets, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine sliced beef and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 hours, or until beef is tender.
2. Add diced beets, onion, garlic, tomato paste, sugar, black pepper, and salt to the pot. Simmer for an additional 30 minutes, or until beets are tender.
3. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes
Greek Lemon Chicken Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the brightness of lemon with the richness of chicken and spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a comforting meal on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chicken; cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add broth, wine (if using), lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Stir in parsley. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pumpkin and Red Lentil Stew
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious stew, perfect for a cozy fall evening. This recipe combines the sweetness of pumpkin with the earthy flavor of red lentils, all wrapped in a rich and aromatic broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
2. Add the cumin, smoked paprika, and pumpkin; cook for 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Indian Spiced Cauliflower and Chickpea Stew
This aromatic stew is a perfect blend of spices, vegetables, and legumes, sure to delight your senses. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a satisfying lunch, this recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add cauliflower and chickpeas. Pour in broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, until vegetables are tender, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hungarian Mushroom Stew with Tofu
A hearty and flavorful vegetarian twist on a traditional Hungarian dish, this stew is perfect for a cozy evening meal. With the earthy taste of mushrooms and the creaminess of tofu, you’ll be in for a treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cubed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
3. Add tofu, paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Gradually add broth, tomato paste, and flour, whisking continuously.
5. Bring the stew to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caribbean Callaloo Stew with Coconut Milk
Experience the rich flavors of the Caribbean with this hearty stew, made with tender callaloo greens and creamy coconut milk. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of callaloo greens (or substitute with mustard greens or spinach)
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (optional)
– 1 teaspoon of curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 2 cups of coconut milk
– 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the callaloo greens, curry powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew for 20-25 minutes or until the greens are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Kimchi and Tofu Stew
Savor the bold flavors of Korea with this hearty, spicy stew that combines tender tofu, tangy kimchi, and comforting vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups kimchi (homemade or store-bought), chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced zucchini
– 1 cup diced carrots
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion, garlic, zucchini, carrots, ginger, and red pepper flakes to the pot. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add kimchi, vegetable broth, and cooked tofu to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to warm up your taste buds with these 20 delicious and healthy stew recipes! From hearty lentil and vegetable stews to spicy black bean and kale concoctions, there’s something for everyone. Discover slow cooker chicken and quinoa stews, Moroccan chickpea and sweet potato stews, and Mediterranean fish stews with olives. Plus, explore international flavors like African peanut stew with sweet potatoes, Korean kimchi and tofu stew, and Caribbean callaloo stew with coconut milk. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting or exotic, these nutritious recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
