There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a steaming bowl of stew, especially on a chilly evening when you crave something hearty yet nourishing. One pot, a handful of wholesome ingredients, and you have a meal that not only warms the belly but also delights the senses. My discovery of this One Pot Brothy Butter Beans Tofu with Greens came about after a particularly busy week when takeout no longer felt fulfilling. I was yearning for something homemade that felt as good as a warm hug.
This stew is a vibrant celebration of plant-based goodness! Tender butter beans, crisp greens, and golden seared tofu come together in a savory broth that’s bursting with flavor. As the sofrito melts into the mix, the enticing aroma will transport you to a cozy kitchen full of love and warmth. Plus, it’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy, making it a perfect addition to your busy weeknight repertoire. So, let’s gather our ingredients and dive into this delightful dish that promises to brighten up your table!
Why is One Pot Brothy Butter Beans Tofu With Greens special?
Wholesome comfort: This dish is not only hearty but also packed with nutrients, making it the ultimate cozy meal.
One pot wonders: You’ll love how everything cooks together, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor.
Vibrant flavors: With fresh greens and savory sofrito, each bite is a burst of deliciousness that warms the soul.
Quick and easy: Perfect for busy nights, you can whip it up in no time, allowing more moments of joy at the table.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re entertaining or enjoying a quiet night in, this stew appeals to everyone, ensuring happy bellies all around.
One Pot Brothy Butter Beans Tofu Ingredients
For the Stew
• Firm tofu – ideal for searing and holds up well in the stew.
• Dried butter beans – soak these overnight for a creamy texture and a protein boost.
• Fresh spinach – adds vibrant color and vital nutrients to the dish.
• Kale – packed with antioxidants, it complements the dish with extra texture.
• Sofrito paste – this aromatic base enhances flavor and adds a unique twist to the broth.
• Onion – the foundation of flavors; cook until soft for the best aroma.
• Garlic – brings depth and warmth to the overall taste experience.
• Water or vegetable stock – for a rich broth, vegetable stock is the go-to choice.
• Salt and pepper – season to taste for a balanced dish.
• Olive oil – great for sautéing the tofu and vegetables to perfection.
This One Pot Brothy Butter Beans Tofu With Greens is all set for a delightful cooking experience!
How to Make One Pot Brothy Butter Beans Tofu With Greens
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Sear the Tofu: Start by heating some olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the cubed tofu and sear until golden brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, set the tofu aside for later.
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Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil if needed, and sauté the finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until they are fragrant and translucent, around 3-4 minutes. Stir in the sofrito paste and let it cook for an additional minute.
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Add the Greens: Toss in the chopped spinach and kale. Stir well until they are wilted and vibrant, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Next, add in the soaked butter beans, mixing everything together until combined and heated through.
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Pour in the Broth: Carefully pour 4 cups of water or vegetable stock into the pot, ensuring that the greens and beans are fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to bubble lightly for about 10 minutes.
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Incorporate the Tofu: Once the broth is simmering and the greens are tender, return the seared tofu to the pot. Let it heat through in the flavorful broth, allowing about 5-7 minutes for the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Serve and Garnish: Ladle the savory stew into bowls and serve hot. For an extra burst of freshness, finish with a squeeze of lemon juice right before enjoying.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of chili flakes for a little kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze One Pot Brothy Butter Beans Tofu With Greens
Fridge: Store remaining stew in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezer: If you’d like to enjoy this recipe later, freeze the stew in portioned containers for up to 2 months. Leave some space for expansion while freezing.
Reheating: To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of vegetable stock or water if needed to loosen the broth.
Serving Tips: Consider garnishing with fresh lemon juice right before serving again to revive flavor and brightness after storage.
What to Serve with One Pot Brothy Butter Beans Tofu With Greens?
Planning a delightful meal to accompany your warming stew?
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Crusty Bread: A slice of fresh, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up that rich broth, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite.
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Quinoa Salad: Light and fluffy quinoa tossed with diced veggies and vinaigrette balances the stew’s hearty flavors, bringing brightness to the plate.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal veggies brings additional texture and sweetness that complements the savory stew beautifully.
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Herbed Rice: Fluffy herbed rice makes an excellent side, absorbing the delicious broth and adding a fragrant twist to your meal experience.
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Crisp Salad: An arugula salad with cherry tomatoes and a zesty lemon dressing provides a refreshing contrast, awakening your taste buds between mouthfuls.
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Lemonade: For a refreshing drink, homemade lemonade beautifully balances the warmth of the stew with its bright citrus notes.
Each pairing enhances the comforting elements of the One Pot Brothy Butter Beans Tofu With Greens, creating a nourishing and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Make Ahead Options
These One Pot Brothy Butter Beans Tofu With Greens are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can chop the onions, garlic, and greens (spinach and kale) and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, the tofu can be seared in advance and kept in an airtight container, ensuring it remains just as delightful when incorporated later. When you’re ready to enjoy your stew, simply sauté the prepped vegetables, add the soaked butter beans and broth, then return the tofu to the pot. The flavors will meld beautifully, making your stew a cozy comfort dish with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for One Pot Brothy Butter Beans Tofu With Greens
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Choose the Right Tofu: Use firm tofu for this recipe, as it sears beautifully and maintains its shape in the broth without becoming mushy.
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Soak Butter Beans: Always soak dried butter beans overnight for optimal cooking. This helps them soften and cook evenly, defeating the frustration of undercooked beans.
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Sautéing Skills: Ensure onions and garlic are cooked until translucent; this step builds the base of flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your One Pot Brothy Butter Beans Tofu With Greens.
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Fresh Greens Matter: Opt for fresh spinach and kale, as they provide not just nutrients but also vibrant flavor and texture. Avoid wilted greens for a delightful dish.
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Taste as You Go: Season your broth gradually with salt and pepper. Tasting throughout the cooking process helps you achieve a perfectly balanced flavor in your stew.
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Garnish for Freshness: Don’t skip the lemon juice! A squeeze before serving brightens the dish and elevates all those delicious flavors.
One Pot Brothy Butter Beans Tofu Variations
Feel free to get creative with this warm and welcoming stew—there’s so much room to customize and make it your own!
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Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes during cooking for a delightful heat. Feel the warmth as it infuses your broth with exciting flavors.
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Coconut Cream: Stir in a splash of coconut milk after adding the broth for a richer, creamier texture, transforming the stew into an exotic delight.
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Protein Boost: Swap tofu for tempeh or chickpeas for different textures and a delightful spin. Each option brings its own unique flavor and richness to the dish!
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Seasonal Veggies: Add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a colorful twist, ensuring your stew is vibrant and packed with nutrients.
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Herbal Essence: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley right before serving for a fresh burst that elevates the dish to a whole new level.
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Grain Inclusion: Serve over cooked quinoa or rice for added heartiness. This will help soak up the flavorful broth and create an even more satisfying meal.
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Lemon Zest: Before serving, sprinkle in some lemon zest to enhance the citrusy brightness, giving your stew a refreshing zing.
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Mushroom Medley: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor that complements the greens and beans beautifully. Let them soak in the broth’s goodness!
One Pot Brothy Butter Beans Tofu With Greens Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting tofu?
Absolutely! Look for firm or extra-firm tofu, as it holds its shape well when seared and doesn’t break apart in the stew. Make sure the block is free of any liquid in the packaging and has a uniform texture without any dark spots. Fresh tofu will have a clean, subtle aroma.
How long can I store leftovers of the stew?
You can store your One Pot Brothy Butter Beans Tofu With Greens in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before placing it in the fridge to keep the flavors intact and maintain its delightful texture.
Can I freeze the stew, and if so, how?
Very! You can freeze the stew for up to 2 months. Here’s how:
- Allow the stew to cool completely.
- Portion it into airtight containers, leaving some space at the top to allow for liquid expansion during freezing.
- Label with the date and contents, then pop them in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of vegetable stock or water if it’s thickened too much.
What should I do if my butter beans are still hard after cooking?
If your butter beans are undercooked even after simmering, ensure they were soaked overnight first. If they remain tough, simply add a bit more liquid to the pot and let them simmer gently for an additional 10-15 minutes until tender. Remember to keep the lid on to retain moisture!
Is this dish safe for people with allergies?
Yes, but please take care. This dish contains soy (from the tofu) and might not be suitable for those with soy allergies. You can substitute with a legumes mix or cooked quinoa for a different texture. Always check the labels of store-bought ingredients like sofrito paste to ensure they’re free from any allergens you need to avoid.
Can I add other vegetables to the stew?
The more, the merrier! Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and toss them in along with the greens to ensure they cook through. Customize it based on your family’s favorites!
One Pot Brothy Butter Beans Tofu With Greens for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by heating some olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the cubed tofu and sear until golden brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, set the tofu aside for later.
- In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil if needed, and sauté the finely chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent, around 3-4 minutes. Stir in the sofrito paste and let it cook for an additional minute.
- Toss in the chopped spinach and kale. Stir well until they are wilted and vibrant, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Next, add in the soaked butter beans, mixing everything together until combined and heated through.
- Carefully pour 4 cups of water or vegetable stock into the pot, ensuring that the greens and beans are fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to bubble lightly for about 10 minutes.
- Once the broth is simmering and the greens are tender, return the seared tofu to the pot. Let it heat through in the flavorful broth, allowing about 5-7 minutes for the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Ladle the savory stew into bowls and serve hot. For an extra burst of freshness, finish with a squeeze of lemon juice right before enjoying.