Escarole or broccoli rabe would also be good in this hearty stew. With cooked or canned beans on hand, it’s the kind of easy dish you can put together in a hurry. For a complete meal, serve over rice or polenta or with crostini alongside. Kale and Cannellini Bean Stew is a comforting and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish. It pairs well with crusty bread or rice and makes a filling and nutritious meal. The combination of the hearty beans, nutritious kale, and flavorful broth creates a delicious and wholesome stew that is loved by many.
Serves 6
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 cup chopped fresh or canned Italian tomatoes
- Pinch of crushed red pepper
- Salt
- 4 cups cooked cannellini beans or two 16-ounce cans beans, with their liquid
- 6 cups chopped kale
INSTRUCTIONS:
- In a medium pot, cook the garlic in the oil over medium heat until lightly golden, about 2 minutes. Add the tomatoes, red pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir in the beans and cook for 10 minutes.
- Add the kale and stir well. Cook for 15 minutes, or until the kale is wilted and tender. Taste for seasoning and serve.
VARIATIONS:
There are several variations and modifications you can make to customize your Kale and Cannellini Bean Stew. Here are some ideas:
- Additional Vegetables: Besides kale, you can add other vegetables to the stew to enhance the flavors and nutritional profile. Consider adding diced carrots, celery, bell peppers, or diced tomatoes for extra texture and taste.
- Spices and Herbs: Experiment with different spices and herbs to elevate the flavor of your stew. Common choices include paprika, cumin, thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves. You can adjust the amount and combination of spices based on your personal preference.
- Protein Boost: If you want to add more protein to your stew, you can include other legumes or protein sources. Try adding chickpeas, lentils, or diced tofu to make it even heartier.
- Creamy Texture: For a creamier consistency, you can blend a portion of the stew using an immersion blender or regular blender. This will create a thicker base while still keeping some whole beans and vegetables for texture.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy spicy flavors, consider adding red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to give your stew a spicy kick. Adjust the amount of spice according to your heat tolerance.
- Citrus Zest: Add a bright and fresh twist to your stew by adding a splash of citrus juice or zest. Lemon or lime juice can add a refreshing tang that balances the richness of the beans and kale.
- Garnishes: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro), or a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil on top of each serving for added flavor and visual appeal.
NOTE:
- Remember, these variations are just suggestions, and you can mix and match ingredients and flavors to suit your taste preferences. Get creative and have fun experimenting with different combinations to make your Kale and Cannellini Bean Stew uniquely yours.
