Crock Pot Hearty Bean & Vegetable Stew Recipe ๐ฒ
Overview:
Prepare to indulge in the wholesome flavors of this Crock Pot Hearty Bean & Vegetable Stew. It’s a delightful fusion of beans, vegetables, and aromatic herbs, simmered to perfection in a crock pot. This recipe promises a comforting meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or planning a cozy gathering, this stew is sure to impress.
Time Management:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/3 cup diced parsnip
- 1/3 cup sliced carrot
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon parsley
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup rice or pasta
- 3 cups vegetable juice
- 1 cup apple or pineapple juice
- 3 cups vegetable stock or water
- Assorted beans (such as black, red kidney, pinto, baby lima, lentil, green and/or yellow split peas)
Instructions:
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Prep Beans: Begin by rinsing the beans and soaking them overnight in water. This helps soften them and reduce cooking time.
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Prepare Crock Pot: Drain the soaked beans and place them in the crock pot.
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Add Liquids: Pour in the vegetable juice, dry white wine, soy sauce, and apple or pineapple juice. These liquids provide a harmonious blend of flavors, with a hint of sweetness from the fruit juice and depth from the soy sauce.
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Adjust Liquid Level: Cover the ingredients with vegetable stock or water, adjusting the amount based on your preference for a thicker stew or a more soupy consistency.
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Infuse Flavor: The soy sauce adds depth and a touch of saltiness to the stew, while the juice infuses it with a subtle sweetness, creating a well-balanced base for the dish.
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Initial Cooking: Set the crock pot to high and cook for 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the beans to begin softening.
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Add Vegetables and Herbs: After 2 hours, add the chopped vegetables, dried herbs, and spices to the crock pot. Stir to combine, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
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Slow Cooking: Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking for an additional 5 to 6 hours, or until the carrots and parsnips are tender to your liking. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop fully and the vegetables to become tender.
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Final Touch: Once the vegetables are tender, add the rice or pasta to the stew. Continue cooking for an additional hour on low heat, allowing the grains to absorb the flavors of the stew and become perfectly cooked.
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Bean Variety: Feel free to use a variety of beans for added texture and flavor. Options include black beans, red kidney beans, pinto beans, baby lima beans, lentils, and green and/or yellow split peas. Mix and match according to your preference.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the stew is ready, ladle it into bowls and serve piping hot. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of black pepper for an extra touch of flavor. Pair with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 261.7
- Fat: 0.7g
- Saturated Fat: 0.1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 1605.3mg
- Carbohydrates: 56.8g
- Fiber: 4.2g
- Sugar: 9.6g
- Protein: 7.8g
Tips and Variations:
- Make Ahead: This stew can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to intensify even further.
- Freeze for Later: Portion leftovers into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Simply thaw and reheat for a quick and convenient meal.
- Customize Vegetables: Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what’s in season or your personal preferences. Bell peppers, zucchini, and sweet potatoes are all excellent additions to this hearty stew.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Serve with Garnishes: Serve the stew with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of grated cheese, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added flavor.
Conclusion:
With its rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and easy preparation, this Crock Pot Hearty Bean & Vegetable Stew is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or as a satisfying meal any day of the week, this stew is bound to impress with its comforting taste and nutritious goodness. Gather your ingredients, fire up the crock pot, and get ready to savor every spoonful of this delicious homemade creation!
