This Tomato and Butter Bean Stew is a wholesome, plant-based dish that’s both hearty and nourishing.
Rich in fiber and plant protein, it delivers lasting energy while being naturally low in saturated fat.
Easy to prepare in just one pot, this stew offers deep flavors from fresh tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and Parmesan, making it a satisfying, nutritious choice for quick weekday dinners or meal prep.
Tomato and Butter Bean Stew
Equipment
- 1 Dutch oven or large stock pot
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion diced
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary
- 2 pints cherry or grape tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 3 –4 garlic cloves thinly sliced
- ½ tsp crushed fennel seeds
- Pinch chili flakes
- ¾ tsp kosher salt adjust to taste
- 2 15.5-oz cans butter beans, with liquid
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 ½ tsp red wine vinegar
- Fresh parsley chopped for garnish
- Crusty bread for serving
Instructions
- Preparing Your Cooking Base: Begin by placing a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed stockpot over medium heat. Pour in 3 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil and allow it to warm gently for about 30 seconds. The olive oil should shimmer without smoking — this indicates it is ready. Add 1 sprig of fresh rosemary and let it infuse in the hot oil for about one minute, releasing its fragrant oils to create a flavorful base for your stew.
- Softening and Caramelizing Onions: Add 1 medium yellow onion, diced finely, into the pot with the rosemary oil. Stir to coat the onions evenly. Allow them to cook slowly for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until they soften and turn golden brown. This slow caramelization brings out the onions’ natural sweetness and builds the stew’s depth of flavor. Once the onions are ready, remove and discard the rosemary sprig.
- Building the Tomato Base: Add 2 pints of cherry or grape tomatoes to the pot. Stir to mix them with the caramelized onions. Let them cook uncovered for about 8 minutes. As they heat, their skins will soften and burst, releasing rich juices. Stir occasionally so the tomatoes break down evenly. This creates a naturally flavorful, hearty base for the stew.
- Adding Aromatics and Seasoning: Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste to intensify the flavor. Add 3–4 thinly sliced garlic cloves, ½ teaspoon crushed fennel seeds, and a pinch of chili flakes. Continue to cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring constantly until the aromas fully develop. Season with ¾ teaspoon kosher salt, adjusting to taste. This step layers the seasoning for a balanced, aromatic stew foundation.
- Incorporating Beans and Broth: Add 2 (15.5-ounce) cans of butter beans along with their brine to the pot. Pour in 2 cups of vegetable broth and stir gently to combine. The beans will absorb the tomato base’s flavors and create a creamy texture. The brine from the beans adds body and richness, so be sure to include it.
- Simmering for Flavor Development: Raise the heat slightly and bring the stew to a gentle simmer. Keep the pot uncovered so the liquid can reduce naturally. Let the stew cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This simmering deepens the flavors and thickens the stew to a hearty consistency.
- Enriching with Cheese and Pepper: Turn off the heat and stir in ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt into the stew, adding creaminess and a savory depth. Add freshly cracked black pepper to taste — it will give warmth and a subtle kick to the stew.
- Brightening with Vinegar: Stir in 1½ teaspoons red wine vinegar. This adds brightness and balances the stew’s richness. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed to achieve the perfect harmony of flavors.
- Serving and Garnishing: Ladle the stew into deep bowls while still warm. Garnish each serving with freshly chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan for a beautiful presentation. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth, making the meal even more satisfying.
- Enjoying and Storing: Enjoy this stew immediately for the freshest taste. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or microwave in portions, stirring every 30 seconds for even heating. The stew’s flavors will deepen with time, making it an excellent option for meal prep.
Notes
- For best flavor, choose ripe cherry or grape tomatoes — their natural sweetness and juiciness will enhance the stew’s depth.
- Do not drain the butter beans; the liquid contains starch that enriches the stew’s texture.
- Adjust chili flakes according to your spice preference. For a milder stew, reduce or omit them entirely.
- Parmesan cheese adds richness and umami; use freshly grated for the best flavor.
- This stew reheats well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
Chef’s Secrets: Enhancing Flavor Naturally
The key to a standout stew lies in layering flavors.
Start by gently infusing olive oil with fresh rosemary — this small step builds aromatic depth.
Caramelizing the onions slowly adds a natural sweetness that complements the acidity of the tomatoes.
When adding tomato paste, cook it until it darkens slightly; this intensifies its flavor and removes raw undertones.
Lastly, finish with red wine vinegar to brighten and balance the richness of the beans and cheese.
These subtle techniques elevate a simple stew into something exceptional.
Serving Suggestions: Elevating Every Meal
This Tomato and Butter Bean Stew is wonderfully versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments.
Serve it with warm, crusty bread to soak up the rich broth, or pair with a side of leafy greens for added freshness.
For a heartier meal, add a poached egg on top or stir in sautéed spinach just before serving.
Garnishing with fresh herbs such as parsley or basil adds color, texture, and an aromatic lift that makes the dish even more inviting.
Storage Tips: Keeping Fresh Longer
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
This stew is ideal for meal prep as the flavors deepen over time.
When reheating, gently warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat to avoid overcooking the beans, stirring occasionally for even heating.
If reheating in the microwave, cover loosely and stir every 30 seconds to ensure the stew warms evenly.
This recipe also freezes well — transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to three months.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes! While fresh cherry or grape tomatoes give the best flavor, you can substitute two 14-ounce cans of diced tomatoes. This will slightly change the texture but still deliver a rich, comforting stew.
2. How can I make this stew vegan-friendly?
Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative such as nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan. This still retains a creamy, savory finish without animal products.
3. Can I prepare this stew in advance?
Absolutely. This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store it in the refrigerator overnight for a deeper taste, and reheat gently before serving.
4. What variations can I try with this stew?
Add extra vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, or spinach for more texture and nutrients. You can also experiment with different beans such as cannellini or chickpeas for variety.
5. How can I thicken the stew if it’s too thin?
Simmer the stew uncovered for a longer period to allow excess liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, mash a small portion of the beans into the stew for natural thickening without adding extra ingredients.
