14 Healthy Stews to Warm You Up This Fall and Winter

When the cold weather hits, a bowl of warm, homemade stew is just the thing to keep you cozy. Not only are stews perfect for fall and winter, but they also make it easy to eat healthy. These one-pot meals are filled with seasonal ingredients, like root vegetables, lean meats, and hearty legumes, offering both flavor and nutrition.

Vegetable Lentil Stew

This hearty vegetable lentil stew is a perfect go-to for chilly evenings, packed with plant-based protein and fiber. Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and carrots in olive oil until softened. Add diced tomatoes, green lentils, and vegetable broth, and bring everything to a boil. Stir in chunks of potatoes, celery, and spinach for added heartiness, and let the stew simmer until the lentils are tender. Season with thyme, cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper for a flavor-packed meal that’s both healthy and filling.

Chicken and Sweet Potato Stew

For a wholesome and comforting dish, try this chicken and sweet potato stew. In a large pot, cook diced chicken breast with onions and garlic until browned. Add cubed sweet potatoes, carrots, and chicken broth, allowing the mixture to simmer gently. Toss in fresh rosemary and bay leaves for an earthy flavor that complements the sweetness of the potatoes. Let it all cook together until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are soft. This healthy stew is a balanced meal that will keep you warm all winter long.

Beef and Barley Stew

This beef and barley stew is a healthy twist on a classic comfort food. Begin by browning lean beef chunks in a bit of olive oil, then set them aside. In the same pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery before adding garlic, beef broth, and pearl barley. Return the beef to the pot and stir in diced tomatoes and fresh herbs like thyme and parsley. Let the stew simmer slowly, allowing the flavors to meld and the barley to absorb the rich broth. It’s the perfect dish for a cold evening.

Tuscan White Bean and Kale Stew

For a nutrient-dense meal, this Tuscan white bean and kale stew is a must-try. Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and red pepper flakes in olive oil. Add diced tomatoes, white beans, and vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in a handful of fresh kale, allowing it to wilt into the stew, and season with oregano and thyme. The result is a hearty, warming stew that’s both light and packed with plant-based goodness, making it perfect for a fall or winter dinner.

Turkey and Quinoa Stew

This turkey and quinoa stew is a great way to enjoy a healthy, high-protein meal that’s full of flavor. Brown ground turkey in a large pot, then add chopped onions, garlic, and carrots. Pour in chicken broth, quinoa, and diced tomatoes, bringing the stew to a boil. Let it simmer until the quinoa is cooked and the flavors have melded. Add a squeeze of lemon juice and fresh parsley to brighten up the dish before serving. This hearty stew is a delicious way to stay warm and healthy.

Moroccan Chickpea Stew

Bring a taste of North Africa to your kitchen with this Moroccan chickpea stew. Sauté onions, garlic, and spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon in olive oil until fragrant. Add chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth, and let everything simmer together. Stir in chunks of zucchini, bell peppers, and sweet potatoes, allowing the vegetables to soften. Finish with a handful of fresh cilantro for a stew that’s rich in flavor, nutrients, and warmth.

Butternut Squash and Black Bean Stew

This butternut squash and black bean stew is a fall favorite that’s both hearty and nutritious. Begin by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil until soft. Add peeled and cubed butternut squash, black beans, and vegetable broth. Season with cumin, chili powder, and paprika for a smoky kick, and let the stew simmer until the squash is tender. The result is a slightly sweet, spicy, and filling meal that’s perfect for cold nights.

Lamb and Vegetable Stew

This lamb and vegetable stew is a rich, satisfying meal that’s perfect for cold weather. Brown cubes of lean lamb in a large pot, then remove and set aside. In the same pot, sauté onions, garlic, and carrots until soft, then add the lamb back in. Pour in beef broth, potatoes, and a mix of herbs like rosemary and thyme, and let the stew simmer for a couple of hours until the lamb is tender. This stew is a flavorful, protein-packed option to keep you warm this winter.

Spicy Peanut and Sweet Potato Stew

For something a little different, try this spicy peanut and sweet potato stew. Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in olive oil, then add diced sweet potatoes and vegetable broth. Stir in a couple of spoonfuls of peanut butter and some crushed red pepper flakes for a creamy, spicy base. Let the stew simmer until the sweet potatoes are soft, then finish with a handful of fresh spinach and a sprinkle of chopped peanuts on top. This unique, healthy stew is sure to be a hit.

Seafood Stew with Tomatoes and Fennel

This light yet flavorful seafood stew is perfect for those who want something hearty but not too heavy. Start by sautéing fennel, onions, and garlic in olive oil, then add diced tomatoes and fish stock. Bring the mixture to a simmer before adding white fish, shrimp, and clams. Let the seafood cook until just done, then season with a squeeze of lemon and some fresh parsley. This healthy stew is rich in protein and omega-3s, making it a great choice for a winter meal.

Hearty Mushroom and Barley Stew

This hearty mushroom and barley stew is packed with earthy flavors and healthy ingredients. Sauté a mix of mushrooms, onions, and garlic in olive oil until golden. Add vegetable broth, pearl barley, and a splash of soy sauce for extra umami. Let the stew simmer until the barley is tender and the flavors meld together. Finish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper. This warming stew is ideal for fall and winter, offering a satisfying and nourishing meal.

Coconut Curry Lentil Stew

This coconut curry lentil stew is a flavorful and creamy dish that’s both healthy and filling. Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in a large pot, then add red lentils, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Stir in curry powder, turmeric, and a bit of cumin for a warming, aromatic flavor. Let the stew simmer until the lentils are tender, and finish with fresh cilantro. This healthy stew is perfect for a cozy evening and offers a burst of exotic flavors.

Split Pea and Ham Stew

This classic split pea and ham stew is a hearty, protein-packed meal for cold weather. Start by cooking onions, garlic, and diced carrots in olive oil. Add dried split peas, ham, and chicken broth, bringing everything to a boil. Lower the heat and let the stew simmer until the peas break down and the ham is tender. Season with thyme and black pepper for a comforting dish that’s both nutritious and filling.

Thai Green Curry Chicken Stew

This Thai green curry chicken stew offers a flavorful and slightly spicy twist on a traditional stew. Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and green curry paste in coconut oil. Add diced chicken, coconut milk, and chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in chunks of sweet potato, zucchini, and bell peppers, and let the stew cook until the vegetables are tender. Finish with a splash of lime juice and fresh basil for a bright, fragrant finish.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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