As the cold winter nights set in, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm and comforting bowl of stew. Hearty, flavorful, and easy to make, these 20 delicious recipes are sure to become your new go-to’s for cozy nights in.
From classic beef and barley stews to creamy chicken and wild rice stews, spicy sausage and lentil stews to vegetable and chickpea coconut stews, we’ve got a wide range of options to suit every taste and dietary need. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day or a satisfying dinner option that’s easy to prepare, these winter stew recipes are the perfect solution.
In this article, we’ll be diving into 20 different winter stew recipes that are sure to warm your heart (and your belly!) this season. From traditional stews to more adventurous options, we’ve got something for everyone. So grab a spoon and let’s get started!
Classic Beef and Barley Stew
Classic Beef and Barley Stew: A hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe is a staple of traditional cooking, with tender beef, creamy barley, and a rich broth that’s sure to warm your belly and your soul.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck or round, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add barley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until beef is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Stew
A hearty and comforting stew that combines tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a rich creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed wild rice blend
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Add the wild rice blend and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the stew has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Lentil Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines spicy sausage with nutritious lentils, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
2. Remove the sausage from the pot, leaving any drippings behind. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegetable and Chickpea Coconut Stew
This hearty stew is a flavorful and nutritious blend of roasted vegetables, chickpeas, and creamy coconut milk. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss carrots, potatoes, bell pepper, and onion with a pinch of salt and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes.
3. In a large pot, sauté garlic and cumin over medium heat for 1 minute.
4. Add roasted vegetables, chickpeas, coconut milk, and vegetable broth to the pot. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Slow Cooker Lamb and Root Vegetable Stew
Cozy up with a hearty and flavorful stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This slow cooker recipe combines tender lamb with a medley of root vegetables, all infused with aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups lamb broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the lamb, onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, parsnip, diced tomatoes, lamb broth, cumin, and smoked paprika to a slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Moroccan Chickpea and Sweet Potato Stew
Moroccan Chickpea and Sweet Potato Stew: A hearty and aromatic stew that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the rich flavors of Morocco. This comforting dish is perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sweet potatoes, chickpeas, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Hungarian Goulash Stew
Savor the rich flavors of this classic Hungarian dish, a hearty and comforting stew made with tender beef, vegetables, and a hint of paprika.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the beef from pot; set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium; add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Return the beef to pot; bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low; cook, covered, for 1 hour or until beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
White Bean and Kale Stew with Parmesan
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting stew that combines the creamy richness of cannellini beans with the nutty flavor of kale and the tanginess of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried cannellini beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the kale, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the beans are tender.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Irish Guinness Beef Stew
This classic Irish stew combines tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and the rich, velvety smoothness of Guinness stout to create a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck or brisket, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Guinness stout
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes in batches, then set aside.
2. Add onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Guinness, broth, tomato paste, carrots, potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return beef to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2-1/2 hours or until beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Thai Red Curry Vegetable Stew
This vibrant stew combines the bold flavors of Thai red curry paste with a variety of colorful vegetables, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal for any time of day. Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a filling and flavorful experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as bell, cremini, and shiitake)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as snap peas, corn, and zucchini)
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrot; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms, mixed vegetables, curry paste, broth, and coconut milk. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
French Onion Beef Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines tender beef, caramelized onions, and rich broth, perfect for a cozy evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck or short ribs, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef cubes; cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot; set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium; add sliced onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden, about 20-25 minutes.
4. Add garlic, cooking for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Add beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, and thyme. Stir to combine.
6. Return beef to pot; season with salt and pepper.
7. Bring stew to a boil, then cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, until beef is tender, about 2-3 hours.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot over crusty bread or egg noodles.
Smoky Black Bean and Butternut Squash Stew
This hearty stew combines the rich flavors of smoky black beans with the sweetness of roasted butternut squash, all in a comforting and aromatic broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss squash with 2 tbsp of the water, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 45 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper in a little bit of oil until softened.
3. Add black beans, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, cumin, broth, and roasted squash to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Venison and Mushroom Stew
This rich and flavorful stew is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day. With the earthy flavor of mushrooms and the tenderness of venison, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb venison steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the venison and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the beef broth, red wine, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return the venison to the pot and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until the venison is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Creamy Tomato and Sausage Stew
A hearty and comforting stew perfect for a chilly evening, featuring tender sausage and rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the pot; set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium; add onions and garlic. Cook until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in tomatoes, chicken broth, and oregano. Bring to a simmer.
6. Return the sausage to the pot; stir in heavy cream. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the stew has thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Fish Stew with Fennel
This hearty stew combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with the sweetness of fennel, creating a delicious and comforting dish perfect for any occasion. With its medley of fish, vegetables, and aromatics, this stew is sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mixed white fish (such as cod, tilapia, or halibut), cut into large chunks
– 2 medium fennel bulbs, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups fish broth
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and fennel; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the fish, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, and fish broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Pumpkin and Chickpea Stew with Spinach
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious stew, perfect for a cozy fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium pumpkin, peeled and cubed
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Optional: crusty bread for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, and paprika. Cook for an additional minute.
3. Add pumpkin, chickpeas, broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until pumpkin is tender.
4. Stir in spinach leaves. Cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
5. Serve hot, with crusty bread if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Korean Kimchi and Pork Stew
This hearty and flavorful stew combines tender pork with the bold, spicy flavor of kimchi, a traditional Korean fermented vegetable dish. Perfect for a cold winter’s night, this recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder or ribs
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups kimchi, chopped (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add kimchi, beef broth, soy sauce, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Indian Lentil and Spinach Stew (Dal Palak)
A comforting and nutritious Indian-inspired stew made with red lentils, spinach, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain and rinse the lentils again. Set aside.
3. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Cook for another minute.
5. Add the lentils and 2 cups of water to the pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Stir in the spinach leaves. Cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Spanish Chorizo and Potato Stew
Savor the bold flavors of Spain with this hearty stew, featuring smoky chorizo sausage and tender potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Spanish chorizo sausage, sliced
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chorizo sausage over medium heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Add the cubed potatoes, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
African Peanut Stew with Sweet Potatoes
African Peanut Stew with Sweet Potatoes: A rich and flavorful stew that combines the comfort of sweet potatoes with the boldness of peanuts, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 pound boneless chicken or beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, chicken or beef, sweet potato, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the peanut butter and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Warm up on chilly winter nights with these 20 hearty stews, each packed with flavor and comfort. From classic beef and barley to spicy sausage and lentil, there’s a stew for every taste and dietary preference. Try your hand at slow cooker lamb and root vegetable, Moroccan chickpea and sweet potato, or Hungarian goulash. Or opt for something new, like Thai red curry vegetable or Korean kimchi and pork. Whatever you choose, these recipes are sure to satisfy your appetite and leave you feeling cozy.
