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Caramelized Onion and Black Bean Stew

This cozy caramelized onion and black bean stew is a hearty, flavor-packed comfort dish perfect for cold nights. Slowly caramelized onions melt into tender black beans simmered with soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, mustard, and thyme for a deeply rich, balanced flavor. Easy to make, budget-friendly, and nourishing, this wholesome vegetarian stew delivers warmth in every spoonful. Serve it with rice, crusty bread, or creamy polenta for a satisfying meal everyone will love.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 55 minutes
Course Dinner, Soup
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4 people
Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 large onions finely sliced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon wholegrain mustard
  • 3 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 700 grams black beans rinsed and drained if using canned
  • 200 milliliters vegetable stock use if beans are not in stock
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil plus extra for drizzling
  • natural yogurt to serve
  • 1 handful fresh parsley roughly chopped, to serve

Instructions
 

Cooking Instructions

  • Heat olive oil in a large deep saucepan over low to medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft, golden, and caramelized.
  • Add the soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, wholegrain mustard, and thyme sprigs. Stir well and continue cooking for another 15 minutes until the flavors deepen.
  • Add the black beans and pour in vegetable stock (or water if using jarred beans with stock). Stir to combine, then bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Let the stew simmer uncovered for about 60 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally. The onions should melt into the sauce, creating a thick and rich consistency.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove thyme sprigs before serving.
  • Serve warm in bowls topped with a spoonful of natural yogurt, chopped parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Notes

  • Caramelize the onions slowly for a rich, sweet flavor. Don’t rush this step.
  • The stew thickens as it cools—add a splash of stock when reheating if needed.
  • For a vegan version, use plant-based yogurt instead of dairy.
  • This stew tastes even better the next day after the flavors deepen overnight.
Keyword caramelized onion stew, black bean stew, vegetarian dinner, cozy soup, healthy comfort food, meatless meal