This Celery Root White Bean Stew is a cozy, nutrient-packed meal perfect for chilly days.
Packed with fiber-rich white beans, vitamin-loaded vegetables, and heart-healthy fats from avocado oil, it’s a satisfying plant-based dish that’s naturally low in saturated fat.
Quick, easy, and ideal for meal prep, it’s a wholesome stew you can enjoy any day of the week.
Cozy Celery Root White Bean Stew
Equipment
- 1 Large saucepan
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Chef’s knife
- 1 wooden spoon
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 medium celery root peeled and chopped
- 2 medium potatoes scrubbed and chopped
- 1 ½ cups cooked white beans navy, white kidney, or Great Northern
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Peel the celery root carefully, making sure to remove any tough, fibrous skin, and chop it into evenly sized cubes for uniform cooking. Scrub the potatoes thoroughly and dice them into similar-sized pieces. Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves. Having everything prepped before cooking makes the process smooth and stress-free.
- Heat the Oil: Place a large saucepan on the stove over medium heat. Pour in one tablespoon of avocado oil, allowing it to warm up. This heart-healthy oil adds a subtle richness to the stew while keeping the dish low in saturated fat. Wait until the oil shimmers slightly, indicating it’s hot and ready for sautéing.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the hot oil. Stir occasionally with a wooden spoon and cook for 2–3 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and soft. Then, add the minced garlic and fresh thyme sprigs.Continue cooking for another minute or until the mixture releases a fragrant aroma. This step develops the stew’s foundational flavors.
- Add the Vegetables and Beans: Carefully add the chopped celery root and diced potatoes to the saucepan. Stir gently to combine with the onion and garlic mixture, ensuring the vegetables are evenly coated with the oil and aromatics. Next, fold in the cooked white beans, which provide a creamy texture and protein-rich base to the stew.
- Pour in the Broth: Slowly pour in three cups of vegetable broth, making sure the liquid covers the vegetables. Stir to mix everything together. Using vegetable broth enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients without overpowering the delicate taste of celery root and white beans.
- Bring to a Boil: Turn the heat up slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This step helps to combine all the flavors thoroughly and prepares the vegetables for simmering. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Simmer the Stew: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a lid. Let the stew simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the celery root and potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. The slow simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and comforting consistency.
- Season to Taste: After the vegetables are fully cooked, remove the thyme sprigs. Taste the stew and add salt as needed. You can also add a pinch of black pepper or other herbs if desired. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasoning.
- Serve and Enjoy: Spoon the stew into bowls while it’s warm. This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light green salad. The creamy white beans, tender vegetables, and aromatic herbs make every spoonful comforting and satisfying, perfect for lunch or a cozy dinner.
- Optional Garnishes: For extra flair, you can garnish each serving with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, or a few croutons for added texture. These little touches elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise, making it ideal for both family meals and entertaining guests.
Notes
- Use freshly cooked or canned white beans; rinse canned beans thoroughly to reduce sodium.
- Chop celery root and potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Sauté aromatics gently to avoid burning garlic, which can turn bitter.
- Adjust seasoning at the end, as broth may already contain some salt.
- For a creamier texture, lightly mash some beans in the pot before serving.
- Fresh thyme adds depth; dried thyme can be substituted if necessary.
- Serve immediately for best flavor, but the stew also reheats well.
Chef’s Secrets For Perfect Stew
To elevate this stew, focus on layering flavors gradually.
Start with gentle sautéing of onions and garlic until translucent and fragrant—this foundational step brings out natural sweetness and aromatic depth.
Using a mix of white beans enhances texture and flavor; Great Northern beans provide creaminess, while navy or kidney beans offer a slightly firmer bite.
For richer flavor, consider roasting the celery root lightly before adding it to the pot.
Lastly, don’t over-stir during simmering, as it helps maintain a chunky, hearty texture.
Serving Suggestions To Impress Guests
This stew is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.
Serve it alongside warm crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping into the broth.
For a light, balanced meal, accompany the stew with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette.
Garnish with fresh parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for visual appeal and subtle flavor enhancement.
It also makes a fantastic filling for grain bowls, paired with quinoa or farro for extra fiber and protein.
Storage Tips For Longevity And Flavor
Store the stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days.
It tends to thicken as it cools, so add a splash of vegetable broth or water when reheating to restore its consistency.
This stew freezes exceptionally well; portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming and to maintain a smooth, creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use canned beans instead of cooked beans?
Yes, canned beans are convenient and work perfectly. Rinse them thoroughly to reduce excess sodium and enhance the natural bean flavor.
2. Can I make this stew vegan or plant-based?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan, using vegetable broth and plant-based ingredients, making it high in fiber, plant protein, and low in saturated fat.
3. Can I add other vegetables to the stew?
Yes, feel free to include carrots, parsnips, or leeks. Adjust cooking times slightly to ensure all vegetables are tender and the stew remains creamy.
4. How can I thicken the stew if it’s too watery?
Mash a few beans in the pot with the back of a spoon, or simmer uncovered for a few minutes. Adding a small amount of potato starch or cornstarch slurry also works.
5. What is the best way to reheat the stew?
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of vegetable broth if the stew has thickened in the fridge or freezer.
