I absolutely love this Creamy Black Bean & Almond Butter Stew! This dish holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of cozy nights spent with my family gathered around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter. It’s a relatively simple dish to prepare, yet it feels indulgent and packed with flavor—perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something hearty and comforting. Plus, who would’ve thought that almond butter could elevate a stew? It might sound a bit unusual, but trust me when I say the creamy richness it adds is simply divine!
I remember the first time I made this stew. I had some black beans in my cupboard and a random jar of almond butter sitting in my fridge that was begging to be used. The result was so delicious that I immediately wrote it down and have been making it ever since! It’s one of those recipes that leaves your kitchen smelling incredible and your soul feeling warm. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so fantastic.
What’s in Creamy Black Bean & Almond Butter Stew?
Black Beans: The star of the show! Black beans are not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber, making them a perfect base for this stew. I personally prefer using low-sodium canned black beans for convenience and health.
Vegetable Broth: This provides a savory base for your stew. Homemade broth is ideal, but store-bought works just as well if you’re in a pinch! Keep an eye on brands that are organic or low-sodium for healthier options.
Almond Butter: Here’s where the magic happens! Almond butter adds a lovely creaminess and a subtly nutty flavor. I’m a big fan of natural almond butter that doesn’t contain any added sugars or oils. It really allows the natural flavor to shine through.
Onion: Chopped onions add flavor and depth, bringing a bit of sweetness to the mix. I love using yellow onions for their balance between sweet and savory.
Garlic: Because what’s a stew without garlic? Fresh minced garlic adds a wonderful aroma and flavor that ties everything together.
Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots not only bring color but also contribute to a touch of natural sweetness.
Bell Peppers: I usually go for red or yellow bell peppers for their sweetness and crunch, but any color works if you love them!
Spices: Ground cumin and chili powder add a warm depth of flavor. You can adjust the heat level depending on how spicy you like your stews!
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors! Always taste as you go to get it just right.
Is Creamy Black Bean & Almond Butter Stew Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! This stew is like a cozy hug for your body!
Black Beans: They’re packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients like iron and magnesium. Eating them can help keep you full and satisfied while providing great energy.
Almond Butter: A fantastic source of healthy fats and protein! It’s known to be heart-healthy as it contains monounsaturated fats, which can help lower bad cholesterol.
Vegetable Broth: A low-calorie option for adding flavor without all the added fats. It’s an excellent choice for keeping your dish light yet flavorful.
Overall, this stew is nutritious and loads of fun to enjoy, but if you’re watching calories, just be mindful of how much almond butter you’re adding!
Ingredients List
– 2 cans (15 oz each) of black beans, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium preferred)
– 1/4 cup almond butter (natural, no added sugar)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, diced
– 1-2 bell peppers, diced (your choice of color)
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe serves about 4 hearty portions.
How to Make Creamy Black Bean & Almond Butter Stew?
1. In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the diced carrots and bell peppers to the pot. Sauté them for 5-7 minutes until they start to soften.
4. Toss in the rinsed black beans, vegetable broth, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a simmer.
5. Once simmering, lower the heat and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.
6. After the stew has thickened a bit, add in the almond butter. Stir well until the butter is fully incorporated and the stew is creamy.
7. Adjust seasoning to taste, and enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen!
8. Serve hot, with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top if you like!
Serving Suggestions to Spice Things Up
This stew is versatile and can be paired with all sorts of delicious sides. Here are a few suggestions to enhance your meal:
– Serve it over whole grains like quinoa or brown rice for an extra boost of nutrition.
– Top with fresh avocado slices, cilantro, or a dollop of yogurt for creaminess.
– Crusty bread or tortilla chips on the side is also a fantastic complement for dipping!
I’m so excited for you to try this Creamy Black Bean & Almond Butter Stew! The combination of flavors is comforting, and it really puts a smile on my face every time I make it. Don’t forget to share your experience with me! I’d love to hear your thoughts and any tweaks you made to the recipe. Happy cooking!