Description
This hearty and flavorful Squash and Kidney Beans Stew is a comforting dish packed with protein, fiber, and rich spices. Perfect for a cozy meal, this dish can be enjoyed as a main course or served over rice, quinoa, or crusty bread.
Ingredients
• 1 medium butternut squash (or acorn squash), peeled and diced
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon turmeric (optional, for added depth)
• 1 cup fresh spinach or kale (optional, for extra greens)
• 1 tablespoon lime or lemon juice (for freshness)
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté for 3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
2. Add Squash & Spices: Stir in diced squash, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, black pepper, oregano, and turmeric. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the spices to become fragrant.
3. Simmer: Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until the squash is tender.
4. Add Beans & Greens: Stir in kidney beans and cook for another 5 minutes. If using, add spinach or kale and stir until wilted.
5. Finish & Serve: Stir in lime or lemon juice for brightness. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley.
Notes
• For a thicker stew, mash some of the squash before serving.
• Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or a diced chili.
• Swap kidney beans for black beans or chickpeas if desired.
• Serve over brown rice, quinoa, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Stew
- Method: Stovetop
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Squash stew, kidney beans, vegan comfort food, protein-packed, hearty stew, fall recipes