Smoky Spanish Bean Stew: A Hearty, Healthy Comfort Dish

Smoky Spanish Bean Stew

This hearty Spanish bean stew is a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients and smoky, rich flavours. Whether you enjoy it as a vegetarian delight or add chorizo for extra depth, this dish will bring comfort and warmth to your table.

Ingredients

• 1 onion
• 1 sweet Italian green pepper
• 1 carrot
• 400g jar of Alubias beans (White Haricot) or 2 cups
• 4 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
• 1.5 tsp sweet smoked Spanish paprika
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• Sea salt & black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Dried chilli and chorizo (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   Chop the onion, green pepper, and carrot into chunks. Add them to a stockpot and cover with cold water, about 1/2 inch above the vegetables. Heat on high.

2. Rinse the Beans:
   Drain the beans in a sieve, rinse under cold running water, and set aside. Roughly chop 4 cloves of garlic.

3. Cook the Vegetables:
   After 20 minutes of boiling, drain the vegetables and reserve the broth. Allow the vegetables to cool slightly.

4. Blend the Base:
   In a blender or with a handheld blender, puree the cooked vegetables with 1 tablespoon of the beans and 2 tablespoons of the hot broth. Blend until smooth.

5. Prepare the Stew Base:
   Heat a pot on medium heat, adding 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Once hot, sauté the garlic for 2 minutes.

6. Combine Ingredients:
   Add the drained beans, pureed vegetables, paprika, cumin, sea salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well. Pour in 1.5 cups of the reserved broth and let the stew simmer for 10 minutes.

7. Garnish and Serve:
   Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Add optional dried chilli or chorizo for an extra kick. Enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This stew is a fantastic way to enjoy plant-based proteins from white beans while soaking in the smoky goodness of Spanish paprika. Pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal or serve it as a starter before a Mediterranean feast.

Pro Tip: For a vegetarian twist, omit the chorizo and add more smoked paprika for that signature depth of flavour.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're seeking a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting dish for a cosy gathering, this Spanish Bean Stew ticks all the boxes. Packed with nutrients and bursting with Mediterranean charm, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

Enjoy this and more delicious recipes by following @NourishedCommunities.