Are you looking for a hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend? Look no further! We’ve gathered 20 delicious vegetarian stew recipes from around the world to warm your belly and your soul. From classic comfort foods to exotic international flavors, these stews are sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.
From creamy curries to smoky lentils, and from Mediterranean eggplant to spicy black beans, our collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these recipes are easy to make and packed with nutrients. So why wait? Dive into this flavorful world of vegetarian stews and start cooking up a storm!
Lentil and Sweet Potato Stew
Warm up with this hearty Lentil and Sweet Potato Stew, a nutritious and comforting dish perfect for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
2. Add the lentils, sweet potato, vegetable broth, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Moroccan Chickpea and Vegetable Stew
This hearty stew is a flavorful blend of chickpeas, vegetables, and aromatic spices, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz)
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 small red onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the chickpeas, vegetable broth, and any desired seasonings. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Coconut Curry Stew
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful stew that combines the richness of coconut milk with the spices of Indian cuisine. This creamy curry stew is perfect for a chilly evening or as a unique dinner option.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until tender.
2. Stir in curry powder and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
3. Pour in coconut milk and broth; bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low; let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Black Bean and Quinoa Stew
This hearty stew combines the protein-rich power of quinoa with the bold flavors of black beans, onions, garlic, and a hint of heat from cumin and chili flakes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cumin, chili flakes, and black beans; cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in red bell pepper and cooked quinoa. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer stew for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rustic Tomato and White Bean Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of sweet tomatoes, creamy white beans, and savory herbs, simmered to perfection in a rich chicken broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried cannellini beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the soaked and drained cannellini beans, chopped tomatoes, chicken broth, and thyme.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the beans are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mediterranean Eggplant and Chickpea Stew
This hearty stew is a flavorful blend of roasted eggplant, chickpeas, and aromatic spices, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With its rich flavors and tender textures, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss eggplant slices with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large pot, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cooked eggplant to the pot. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Stir in chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Lentil Stew
This hearty stew combines the rich flavor of lentils with the smoky heat of chipotle peppers, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, red bell pepper, diced tomatoes, chipotle peppers, and cumin.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Thai Red Curry Vegetable Stew
This flavorful and aromatic stew is a staple of Thai cuisine, packed with tender vegetables and savory red curry paste. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner or as a comforting meal on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup firm tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, and snap peas)
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers, tofu, and mixed vegetables; cook for 5 minutes.
4. Stir in curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk and fish sauce (if using); bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let stew for 15-20 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
French Onion and Mushroom Stew
French Onion and Mushroom Stew Recipe
Savor the rich flavors of caramelized onions and earthy mushrooms in this hearty stew, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 bay leaf
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (20-25 minutes).
2. Add mushrooms to the pot and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown (5-7 minutes).
3. Sprinkle salt and pepper over the mixture.
4. Pour in beef broth, white wine (if using), and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes.
African Peanut and Sweet Potato Stew
African Peanut and Sweet Potato Stew Recipe
This hearty stew combines the rich flavors of peanuts with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, creating a deliciously unique dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon peanut oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup peanuts
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the peanut oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced sweet potatoes, peanuts, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Indian Chana Masala Stew
This popular North Indian recipe is a flavorful and comforting stew made with chickpeas, onions, garlic, and aromatic spices. Serve it over basmati rice or with naan bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, garam masala, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hungarian Paprika Potato Stew
Savor the hearty flavors of Hungary with this comforting potato stew infused with sweet and smoky paprika.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Hungarian sweet paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the paprika, caraway seeds, and potatoes; cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Three-Bean Stew
This hearty stew is a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening. A blend of tender beans, savory spices, and tangy tomatoes come together to create a deliciously rich and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper in a little oil until tender.
2. Add the black beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Bring the stew to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the beans are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Winter Root Vegetable Stew
As the weather cools down, warm up with this hearty Winter Root Vegetable Stew that’s packed with nutrients and flavor. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and chopped
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 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 chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped carrots, parsnip, and sweet potato. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Greek Lemon and Artichoke Stew
This hearty stew combines the bright flavors of lemon and artichokes with tender chicken, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large artichoke hearts, canned or fresh, chopped
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, chicken, artichoke hearts, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuscan Kale and White Bean Stew
This hearty stew combines the nutty flavor of cannellini beans with the slightly bitter taste of Tuscan kale, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups chopped fresh Tuscan kale
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
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 garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the thyme, then add the cannellini beans, kale, broth, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the kale is tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If using Parmesan cheese, stir it in during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Persian Herb and Bean Stew
This hearty stew is a staple of Persian cuisine, packed with the flavors of fresh herbs and tender beans. With its aromatic spices and comforting warmth, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add beans, parsley, cilantro, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add broth, tomatoes, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Caribbean Callaloo Stew
Callaloo, a popular Caribbean dish, is a delicious and nutritious stew made with leafy greens, protein-rich chicken, and aromatics. This recipe brings together the bold flavors of the Caribbean in a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 cups chopped callaloo (amaranth or pigweed)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup coconut milk
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and Scotch bonnet pepper; cook until softened.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add callaloo, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in chicken broth and coconut milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the greens are tender.
5. Serve hot over rice or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Korean Kimchi and Tofu Stew
A classic Korean comfort food dish that combines the bold flavors of kimchi with tender tofu and a rich, savory broth. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 cups kimchi (store-bought or homemade), chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine kimchi, vegetable broth, soy sauce, Gochujang, and sesame oil.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat.
3. Add tofu and cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with scallions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Provençal Ratatouille Stew
A classic Provençal dish from the south of France, this hearty stew is a flavorful celebration of summer vegetables and aromatics. With its rich, velvety texture and deep flavors, it’s perfect for a cold winter night.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, diced
– 2 large bell peppers, diced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can of crushed tomatoes (14 oz)
– 1 cup of vegetable broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, eggplant, and bell peppers. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer the stew for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the vegetables are very tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cozy up with these 20 hearty vegetarian stew recipes! From comforting classics like Lentil and Sweet Potato Stew to international inspirations like Moroccan Chickpea and Vegetable Stew, there’s something for every taste. Explore flavors from around the world, including Indian Chana Masala, Korean Kimchi and Tofu, and Caribbean Callaloo. With a variety of ingredients and spices, these stews are sure to warm your belly and your home.
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