Black Bean and Pumpkin Stew with Homemade Cheese

This delightful stew combines earthy black beans, sweet pumpkin, and creamy homemade cheese for a comforting meal. The dish is rich in textures and flavors, offering a hearty experience perfect for family dinners or cozy evenings. Bursting with nutrients, it features wholesome ingredients like walnut and fresh vegetables, accented with Italian herbs and spices. The ginger adds a subtle heat, balancing the sweetness of the pumpkin and carrots. Cooking the black beans to perfection ensures they are tender and flavorful, absorbing the bold seasonings. Lightly toasted walnuts contribute a crunchy contrast, while homemade cheese melts into the stew, contributing creaminess. Koriander leaves add a final fresh touch, enhancing the stew's aromatic quality. Elegant yet simple to make, this stew is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

1/2 small pumpkin (15 cm diameter)
2 carrots
1 handful of black beans
1 handful of walnuts
1 onion
200 g homemade cheese

Spices and Herbs:

2 x 3 x 6 cm ginger piece
Italian herb seasoning
Five pepper blend
Coriander leaves

Preparation Time

Total Time: 120 minutes; includes 90 minutes for bean cooking and 30 minutes for stew preparation.

Step-by-Step Instruction

Start by cooking the black beans in a large pot. Bring them to a boil and then simmer for approximately 1.5 hours until they become tender.
While beans cook, finely chop the onion and set it aside. Peel and cube the pumpkin into bite-sized pieces.
Grate the carrots and ginger. Ensure they are ready to add to the pan.
In a large skillet, heat some oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Stir in the pumpkin cubes, grated carrot, and ginger.
Sprinkle the Italian herb seasoning and five-pepper mix over the vegetables. Stir well to combine the spices evenly.
When black beans are ready, drain them and heat 0.5 liters of water in a large pot with a bouillon cube until it dissolves.
Add the cooked black beans and sautéed vegetables to the pot. Mix thoroughly to enhance the stew's depth of flavor.
Stir in the walnuts, and allow them to meld with the other ingredients for 15 minutes, giving them time to toast slightly.
Dice the homemade cheese and gently fold it into the stew, stirring until it melts and coats the ingredients.
Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh coriander leaves for added freshness and aroma. Enjoy!

Tips

For a smoother texture, mash some of the beans in the pot.
Substitute walnuts with almonds or pecans for varied flavor.
Opt for feta or ricotta if homemade cheese isn’t available.

Nutritions

Calories per serving: Approx. 350
Protein: 15g
Fats: 20g
Carbs: 30g

Variations

Add chickpeas for extra protein.
Use sweet potatoes instead of pumpkin for a sweeter taste.
Replace Italian herbs with Mexican seasoning for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a fresh green salad and crusty bread.
Top with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of spicy red chili flakes for added heat.

Best Places

Nopi - A fusion of modern and traditional flavors with a cozy ambiance. Location: 21 Warwick Street, London, UK.
Eris Cafe - Known for innovative vegetarian dishes and unique takes on traditional stews. Location: 2959 N Francisco Ave, Chicago, USA.
Les Fleurs - Delights with farm-to-table ingredients and an elegant presentation. Location: Rue Montorgueil, Paris, France.
The Green Spot - Offers a wide range of creative vegetarian and vegan dishes. Location: Carrer de la Reina Cristina, Barcelona, Spain.
The Butcher’s Daughter - Highlights organic produce in a charming rustic space. Location: Abbot Kinney Blvd, Los Angeles, USA.
Buvette - Combines French bistro vibes with rustic cuisine. Location: Grove Street, New York, USA.
Henrietta - Known for its refined yet approachable menu. Location: Henrietta Street, Covent Garden, London, UK.
Ozark Cafe - A laid-back spot with hearty and comforting meals. Location: Spring Street, Jasper, USA.
Yam'Tcha - Melds Asian and European cuisines for a dynamic eating experience. Location: Rue Sauval, Paris, France.
Sol Semilla - Focuses on superfoods and inventive plant-based dishes. Location: Rue des Vinaigriers, Paris, France.