The aroma of simmering spices wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a sun-soaked island where flavors dance in harmony. Today, I’m excited to share my Coconutty Beans and Greens Stew, a vibrant, hearty vegan delight that not only comforts the soul but also nourishes the body. The magic of this stew lies in its rich blend of creamy coconut milk, tender sweet potatoes, and protein-packed beans, making it a perfect quick meal for any midweek dinner. Whether you’re a seasoned home-chef or just looking for a healthy upgrade to your dinner routine, this dish is sure to fill your kitchen with warmth and cheerful heartiness. Plus, it’s entirely adaptable—so you can customize it based on whatever you have on hand. Ready to dig in and transform your meal into a tropical escape? Let’s get cooking! Why is This Stew a Must-Try? Unmatched Comfort: The Coconutty Beans and Greens Stew is like wrapping yourself in a warm, cozy blanket after a long day. Nutrient-Packed: With rich ingredients like sweet potatoes and hearty beans, you’re nourishing your body while indulging your taste buds. Customize Easily: Don’t have Swiss chard? Use kale or spinach instead, allowing you to whip this up with whatever you have at home! Vegan Delight: Perfect for everyone, this dish caters to vegan and vegetarian diets without compromising flavor. Quick and Convenient: Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s a perfect solution for a busy weeknight meal. Pair it with a crusty baguette or over rice for something truly delicious! Coconutty Beans and Greens Stew Ingredients For the Stew Base • Medium Onion – Adds aromatic base flavors. Substitute with shallots for a milder taste. • Plum Tomato – Provides acidity and sweetness. Use canned diced tomatoes in a pinch. • Garlic Cloves (3) – Infuses robust flavor; fresh garlic is recommended. Garlic powder can work in a hurry. • Piece of Ginger (1″) – Adds warmth and depth; fresh is ideal, but ground ginger can substitute with adjusted taste. • Red Thai Chiles (2) or Fresno Chile (1) – For heat; swap with jalapeño or skip them for a milder flavor. • Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (2 Tbsp) – Essential for sautéing; coconut oil can add a tropical twist. For the Seasoning • Coriander (½ tsp) & Cumin (½ tsp) – Enhance the stew’s earthy notes; consider turmeric or garam masala for variation. • Coconut Milk (13.5-oz can) – Adds creaminess; full-fat coconut milk offers richness while light options reduce calories. For the Vegetables • Water (2 cups) – Adjusts consistency; use vegetable broth for additional flavor. • Sweet Potato (1 medium) – Provides sweetness and substance; regular potatoes or squash are great substitutes. • Swiss Chard or Kale (large bunch) – Supplies nutrition and color; swap in any tender leafy green like spinach or collards. For the Protein • Butter Beans, Gigante, or Cannellini (30 oz total) – Add protein and creaminess; any canned beans can be swapped based on preference. For the Finish • Fresh Lemon Juice (2 Tbsp) – Brightens flavor beautifully; lime juice also makes for a suitable alternative. This Coconutty Beans and Greens Stew is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and flavor to your table. Enjoy every spoonful! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Coconutty Beans and Greens Stew Step 1: Prepare the Curry Paste In a blender, combine the medium onion, plum tomato, garlic cloves, ginger, and red Thai chiles. Blend until you achieve a smooth, vibrant paste. This will take about 1-2 minutes. Set this flavorful base aside, as it will infuse your Coconutty Beans and Greens Stew with rich taste. Step 2: Cook Base Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the prepared curry paste and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 12-16 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens to a paste-like consistency and releases a fragrant aroma. Step 3: Add Spices Stir in ½ teaspoon each of coriander and cumin into the skillet with the curry paste. Mix thoroughly for about 1 minute to toast the spices. Then, pour in the coconut milk and 2 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Step 4: Cook Sweet Potato Add your sliced medium sweet potato into the bubbling stew. Lower the heat to a simmer and cover the pot, cooking for about 10-12 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender. This smoky, creamy stew begins to take shape as the sweet potatoes soften. Step 5: Incorporate Greens and Beans Once the sweet potatoes are tender, stir in a large bunch of Swiss chard and 30 ounces of rinsed beans. Cook for roughly 4 minutes until the greens wilt and brighten in color. The Coconutty Beans and Greens Stew now comes alive with vibrant greens and fibrous texture. Step 6: Finish Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, enhancing the stew’s flavor profile. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary, adding more salt or spices if desired. Let the dish rest for a minute, allowing the flavors to settle. Step 7: Serve Ladle the luscious Coconutty Beans and Greens Stew into bowls, garnishing with an additional drizzle of olive oil if desired. Pair with toasted baguette slices or serve over rice for a hearty meal that’s perfect for cozy nights in. How to Store and Freeze Coconutty Beans and Greens Stew Fridge: Store the Coconutty Beans and Greens Stew in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheating on the stove or in the microwave helps restore its creamy texture. Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating thoroughly on the stove or in the microwave. Reheating: When reheating, you may need to add a splash of water or vegetable broth to return some creaminess. Stir well to combine before serving. Flavor Tip: The stew’s flavors develop even more after a night in the fridge, making it even tastier when reheated! Make Ahead Options These Coconutty Beans and Greens Stew ingredients are perfect for prepping ahead of time, saving you valuable minutes during busy weeknights! You can prepare the curry paste (onion, tomato, garlic, ginger, and chiles) up to 24 hours in advance—just refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its vibrant flavor. Additionally, you can chop the sweet potato and greens ahead of time, refrigerating them separately to keep everything fresh. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the curry paste, add the coconut milk and water, followed by the sweet potatoes, and finish cooking as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, wholesome stew with minimal effort! Expert Tips for Coconutty Beans and Greens Stew Blend Smoothly: A high-speed blender creates a silky curry paste that enhances the stew’s flavor. Avoid under-blending for a chunkier texture. Spice Balance: Adjust spice levels by modifying the chiles. De-seeding them provides a milder taste, perfect for family-friendly meals. Greens Care: Don’t overcook greens, as they can lose vibrant color and nutrients. Add them toward the end of cooking for the best texture. Flavor Boost: For extra depth, consider using vegetable broth instead of water when adjusting the stew’s consistency with the coconutty beans and greens stew. Cool and Store: Stew flavors deepen overnight; refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze portions for future cozy meals. What to Serve with Coconutty Beans and Greens Stew The rich and creamy stew promises to warm your soul, but a delightful side can turn your meal into a banquet of flavors. Crusty Baguette: Perfect for dipping, a warm baguette adds texture and absorbs every bit of stew’s luscious sauce. Quinoa Salad: Light and refreshing, a quinoa salad pairs beautifully, bringing a nutty crunch that balances the stew’s creaminess. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and avocado for a vibrant touch. Coconut Rice: Enhance the tropical vibes with coconut-infused rice. Its subtle sweetness complements the stew’s bold flavors while keeping the meal cohesive. Steamed Broccoli: For a fresh and vibrant element, lightly steamed broccoli adds a lovely crunch and enhances your nutrient intake with bright green color. Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado elevates the dish further, providing a cooling contrast to the warmth of the stew. Simply slice and arrange on top before serving. Pineapple Chunks: For an unexpected twist, serve fresh pineapple alongside. Its tart sweetness introduces a delightful contrast that enhances the tropical experience. Herbed Lemonade: A refreshing drink like herbed lemonade brightens the meal, while its tartness complements the stew perfectly, making it a balance of flavors. Chocolate Mousse: Cap off the meal with a rich, silky chocolate mousse for dessert—its decadent nature offers a perfect sweet retreat after savory flavors. Mixed Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a zesty dressing can lighten the palate while enhancing the meal’s freshness. Coconut Milk Tart: Keep the tropical theme alive with a coconut milk tart; its creamy sweetness will leave you with a satisfied smile after the hearty stew. Coconutty Beans and Greens Stew: Fun Twists Feel free to get creative with this delightful recipe and make it your own! Sweet Potato Swap: Replace sweet potato with butternut squash for a sweeter, nuttier taste. The texture change is subtle but enjoyable. Leafy Greens Switch: Substitute Swiss chard with kale or spinach based on availability. Each brings its own unique flavor while keeping the dish vibrant. Extra Veggies: Toss in diced carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition and crunchy texture. It’s a great way to sneak in more veggies and color. Legume Variety: If you’re out of butter beans, try chickpeas or black beans instead for a twist on texture and flavor. Each offers a unique take on a classic dish. Spice it Up: Use smoked paprika for a subtly smoky flavor or add a few dashes of hot sauce for an extra kick! Your taste buds will love the added complexity. Coconut Milk Alternatives: Try almond milk if you’re looking for a lighter option, but keep in mind it will alter the creaminess. Herb Infusion: Fresh basil or cilantro stirred in at the end brightens the dish, giving it fresh flavor. It’s like adding a burst of sunshine to each bowl! Serve with a Twist: Consider serving your stew over quinoa or even rice noodles for a comforting, filling meal. The options are endless! For even more delicious ideas, don’t miss out on discovering our Date Night Kale dish for a special twist, or perhaps try our delightful Mojo Bowls Sweet for a comforting family night. Enjoy your culinary adventure! Coconutty Beans and Greens Stew Recipe FAQs How do I select the right sweet potato? Absolutely! When choosing a sweet potato, look for those that have smooth skin without any dark spots or soft spots. The color can range from pale yellow to deep orange—both are excellent for this stew. Avoid any that feel overly heavy for their size, as that can indicate they’re past their prime. How should I store leftover stew? To keep your Coconutty Beans and Greens Stew fresh, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious when reheated. Can I freeze the Coconutty Beans and Greens Stew? Yes, you can freeze this stew! Pour the cooled stew into airtight containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove with a splash of water or vegetable broth for that creamy consistency! What if my greens overcook? Very! If your greens end up overcooked and wilty, they could lose both their vibrant color and some nutrients. To prevent this, add them to the stew towards the end of cooking, just long enough for them to wilt, about 4 minutes. If they do overcook, you might consider blending the stew for a smoother consistency, or serving it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added brightness. Are there any dietary considerations for this stew? Indeed! This Coconutty Beans and Greens Stew is vegan and suitable for vegetarians, plus it’s free from dairy and nuts, making it a great choice for those with specific dietary preferences or allergies. Always check the labels on canned goods to ensure they meet your dietary needs, particularly regarding allergens. What other vegetables can I add? The more the merrier! Feel free to incorporate additional vegetables like chopped carrots, diced bell peppers, or even zucchini into your Coconutty Beans and Greens Stew. These not only add extra nutrients and flavor but also enhance the dish’s texture. Just remember to adjust cooking times based on the vegetables you choose to include! Coconutty Beans and Greens Stew for Cozy Nights In Coconutty Beans and Greens Stew is a vibrant, hearty vegan delight that nourishes the body and comforts the soul. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: SaladsCuisine: Caribbean, VeganCalories: 360 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Stew Base1 medium Onion Substitute with shallots for milder taste.1 plum Tomato Use canned diced tomatoes if needed.3 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is recommended.1 inches Ginger Ground ginger can be used.2 Red Thai Chiles Substitute with jalapeño for milder flavor.2 Tbsp Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Coconut oil can be used.For the Seasoning0.5 tsp Coriander0.5 tsp Cumin1 can (13.5 oz) Coconut Milk Full-fat coconut milk is recommended.For the Vegetables2 cups Water Use vegetable broth for more flavor.1 medium Sweet Potato Regular potatoes or squash can be substituted.1 large bunch Swiss Chard Kale or spinach can be substituted.For the Protein30 oz Butter Beans, Gigante, or Cannellini Any canned beans can be used.For the Finish2 Tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice Lime juice makes a suitable alternative. Equipment BlenderLarge Skillet Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsIn a blender, combine the onion, tomato, garlic, ginger, and chiles. Blend until smooth. Set aside.Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add curry paste and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 12-16 minutes.Stir in coriander and cumin. Pour in coconut milk and water. Bring to a gentle boil.Add the sweet potato. Simmer for 10-12 minutes until fork-tender.Stir in Swiss chard and beans. Cook for 4 minutes until greens wilt.Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice, and adjust seasoning to taste.Ladle into bowls and serve with bread or over rice. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 360kcalCarbohydrates: 52gProtein: 12gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 560mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 3mg NotesThis stew is highly adaptable, allowing you to use whatever ingredients you have on hand. Let the flavors deepen overnight for a tastier dish. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
