Cozy Celery Root White Bean Stew
A hearty, comforting stew made with creamy white beans, tender celery root, and wholesome vegetables. Rich in fiber and plant-based protein, this stew is naturally low in saturated fat, simple to prepare, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
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.
