Potato Black Bean Stew Recipe: A Hearty, Flavor-Packed Comfort Meal
Rich, smoky aromas drifting from the kitchen often signal something deeply comforting simmering on the stove. Potato Black Bean Stew Recipe brings exactly that feeling to the table—warm, satisfying, and packed with nourishing ingredients that make every spoonful memorable. Tender potatoes, protein-rich black beans, and bold spices blend together in a thick, savory broth that feels both rustic and wholesome. Plant-based meals have gained popularity for good reason. They’re budget-friendly, nutrient-dense, and incredibly versatile. Potato Black Bean Stew stands out because it delivers hearty texture without relying on meat.
Creamy potatoes naturally thicken the stew, while black beans add depth, richness, and a satisfying bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or cozy weekends, this stew comes together in one pot with simple pantry staples. Whether you follow a vegetarian lifestyle or simply want to incorporate more plant-based meals into your routine, this recipe offers bold flavor and comforting simplicity in every bowl.
Ingredients Needed
Below is a list of ingredients for a classic Potato Black Bean Stew, along with approximate calorie counts. (Values may vary depending on brand and portion size.)
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | 120 kcal |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium | 44 kcal |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | 13 kcal |
| Potatoes (diced) | 3 medium (about 1 lb) | 330 kcal |
| Black beans (cooked or canned, drained) | 2 cups | 440 kcal |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 cup | 32 kcal |
| Vegetable broth | 3 cups | 45 kcal |
| Bell pepper (chopped) | 1 medium | 24 kcal |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon | 8 kcal |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon | 6 kcal |
| Chili powder | 1 teaspoon | 8 kcal |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | 0 kcal |
| Fresh cilantro (optional) | 2 tablespoons | 2 kcal |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add Vegetables and Spices
Mix in diced potatoes and chopped bell pepper. Sprinkle cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper over the vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly with spices.
3. Build the Stew Base
Pour in diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir to combine, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot.
4. Simmer to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender.
5. Add Black Beans
Stir in the black beans and cook for another 5–7 minutes to heat through. For a thicker texture, mash a few potatoes against the side of the pot and stir them back in.
6. Adjust and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
Potato Black Bean Stew adapts beautifully to different flavor profiles and dietary needs.
Make It Spicier
Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Boost the Protein
Include quinoa or lentils for additional plant-based protein and texture.
Add Creaminess
Stir in a splash of coconut milk or top with avocado slices for richness.
Try Different Potatoes
Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness, while Yukon Gold potatoes provide a buttery texture.
Include Extra Veggies
Corn, carrots, zucchini, or spinach blend seamlessly into the stew and increase nutritional value.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 265–280 kcal |
| Protein | 10–12 grams |
| Fat | 5–7 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 45–50 grams |
| Fiber | 12–15 grams |
| Iron | ~15% Daily Value |
| Potassium | High |
Black beans contribute plant-based protein and fiber, promoting fullness and digestive health. Potatoes provide potassium and vitamin C, supporting heart and immune function. Combined, these ingredients create a balanced, nourishing meal that satisfies without feeling heavy.
Serving Suggestions
Potato Black Bean Stew tastes delicious on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides elevates the experience:
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich broth.
- Steamed Rice or Quinoa: Adds heartiness and makes the meal more filling.
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad balances the stew’s warmth.
- Avocado & Lime: Brightens flavors and adds creamy contrast.
- Tortilla Chips: Adds crunch and transforms the stew into a Tex-Mex-inspired dish.
For meal prep, store portions in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even more delicious.
Potato Black Bean Stew: A Hearty, Flavor-Packed Comfort Meal
4
servings10
minutes30
minutes265-280
kcalIngredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 medium potatoes (about 1 lb), diced
2 cups cooked or canned black beans, drained
1 cup diced tomatoes
3 cups vegetable broth
1 medium bell pepper, chopped
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt & black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Directions
- Sauté Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Vegetables & Spices:
- Mix in diced potatoes and bell pepper. Add cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat vegetables evenly.
- Build the Stew Base:
- Add diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir to combine and scrape up any bits from the bottom.
- Simmer:
- Bring to a gentle boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer 20–25 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Add Black Beans:
- Stir in black beans and cook 5–7 minutes until heated through. Optional: mash a few potatoes for a thicker texture.
- Finish & Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and serve warm.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Sauté for flavor: Cooking onions and garlic before adding liquids develops a rich, aromatic base.
Potato choice matters: Yukon Gold or red potatoes give a buttery texture, while sweet potatoes add natural sweetness.
FAQs
1. Can I make Potato Black Bean Stew vegan?
Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan when using vegetable broth. Avoid adding any animal-based toppings, and you’ll have a fully plant-based, hearty stew.
2. Can I use canned or dried black beans?
Both work. If using canned beans, drain and rinse them first. If using dried beans, soak them overnight and cook until tender before adding to the stew.
3. Can I freeze Potato Black Bean Stew?
Absolutely. Allow the stew to cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
4. How can I make the stew spicier?
Add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or your favorite hot sauce while cooking. Adjust gradually to avoid overwhelming the flavors.
5. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes! Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and a slightly creamier texture. Yukon Gold or red potatoes also work well for a buttery, traditional taste.
6. How long does it take to cook?
The stew takes about 35–40 minutes from start to finish, including sautéing vegetables and simmering potatoes until tender.
Conclusion
Potato Black Bean Stew delivers everything a comforting meal should offer—rich flavor, satisfying texture, and nourishing ingredients. Simple pantry staples transform into a hearty dish that feels both wholesome and indulgent. Perfect for cozy nights, busy weekdays, or batch cooking for the week ahead, this stew proves that plant-based meals can be bold, filling, and incredibly flavorful.
