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Vegan Hearty Stew with Soy Curls, Potatoes, Carrots, and Green Peas Recipe

If you’re looking for a vegan stew that’s absolutely loaded with comforting veggies and a protein punch, this Vegan Hearty Stew with Soy Curls, Potatoes, Carrots, and Green Peas Recipe is just what you need. I love this stew because it feels like a warm hug on a chilly day—thick, savory, and full of texture. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make, but the flavor depth will have you coming back for seconds (or thirds!).

What makes this recipe stand out is how it transforms soy curls into such a satisfying, meaty bite that even longtime skeptics of plant-based proteins love. You’ll find that the combo of potatoes, carrots, and green peas makes this both filling and fresh-tasting, perfect for family dinners or batch cooking. Trust me, once you try this Vegan Hearty Stew with Soy Curls, Potatoes, Carrots, and Green Peas Recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Comforting & Filling: Loads of hearty veggies and soy curls provide satisfaction that sticks with you.
  • Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of these in your pantry already, making it easy to whip up anytime.
  • Plant-Based Protein Power: Soy curls give you a great texture and protein boost without any meat.
  • Flexible & Adaptable: You can swap out ingredients and adjust seasonings to suit your tastes with ease.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This stew’s ingredients work perfectly together to build layers of flavor—earthy herbs mingle with sweet carrots and creamy potatoes, while the soy curls absorb all that liquid gold. When you shop, look for good-quality soy curls and fresh veggies to get the best taste out of this dish.

  • Soy Curls: These are the star protein; rehydrated they have a fantastic chewy texture resembling “beef”.
  • Vegetable Broth: Use a rich, flavorful broth or bouillon paste to deepen the stew’s taste.
  • Potatoes: Russets work best because they hold their shape but give a creamy bite.
  • Carrots: Sweet and tender, they balance the savory flavors beautifully.
  • Green Peas: Add a burst of color and subtle sweetness towards the end.
  • Onion & Garlic: The essential base, giving the stew a wonderful aromatic backdrop.
  • Tomato Paste: Brings some acidity and richness to round out the flavors.
  • Herbs (Rosemary & Thyme): Earthy, fragrant herbs that make this taste like home cooking.
  • Flour & Cornstarch: For thickening the stew and coating the soy curls for a slight crust.
  • Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and adding subtle fruitiness.
  • Red Wine (Optional): Gives a bit of complexity but can be left out if you prefer.
  • Soy Sauce: Adds umami flavor in the soy curl marinade.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love making this stew as written, but I’m all about mixing things up depending on what’s in season or what I’m craving. Feel free to personalize this recipe to make it truly yours.

  • Protein Swap: I’ve swapped soy curls for jackfruit or chopped tempeh when I’ve run out—each gives a fun new texture.
  • Veggie Twist: Sometimes I toss in diced sweet potato or parsnips for extra sweetness in colder months.
  • Gluten-Free: I switch to gluten-free flour or arrowroot powder for thickening, working just as well.
  • No Wine: Don’t worry if you don’t have wine; extra broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar does the trick.

How to Make Vegan Hearty Stew with Soy Curls, Potatoes, Carrots, and Green Peas Recipe

Step 1: Soak and Season the Soy Curls

Start by soaking the soy curls in a warm mixture of water, vegetable bouillon, and soy sauce. This step is crucial for softening the soy curls and infusing them with savory flavor. After about 10 minutes, drain them well, then toss with garlic powder, black pepper, and flour. This coating helps create a nice texture once sautéed, making the soy curls a star component in this Vegan Hearty Stew with Soy Curls, Potatoes, Carrots, and Green Peas Recipe.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Soy Curls

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, then add the coated soy curls along with chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until the onions are translucent and the soy curls start to brown just a bit. This adds a wonderful caramelized flavor base. If using red wine, pour it in now and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up all those tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom—that’s flavor gold!

Step 3: Add Broth and Vegetables, Then Simmer

Pour in the vegetable broth, then add the diced potatoes, carrots, celery, tomato paste, rosemary, and thyme. Stir everything together, bring it all to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 30 minutes, or until your vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together beautifully. I like to check occasionally, giving it a gentle stir to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.

Step 4: Thicken, Add Peas, and Season

Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry – this will thicken your stew nicely and give it that hearty consistency I love. Slowly pour it into the pot while stirring, then let it simmer a few minutes until the stew thickens. Stir in the thawed green peas at the end so they stay bright and retain a little bite. Finally, taste and adjust salt and pepper. Don’t rush this step—seasoning makes all the difference in your Vegan Hearty Stew with Soy Curls, Potatoes, Carrots, and Green Peas Recipe.

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Pro Tips for Making Vegan Hearty Stew with Soy Curls, Potatoes, Carrots, and Green Peas Recipe

  • Rehydration Matters: I always soak my soy curls in warm broth and soy sauce—this adds flavor right from the start.
  • Don’t Skip the Sauté: Browning the soy curls and veggies before simmering really deepens the stew’s taste.
  • Thicken Gradually: Add your slurry slowly to avoid lumps, stirring constantly until you hit the perfect stew consistency.
  • Final Seasoning Check: Stews often need a pinch more salt at the end, so taste and adjust before serving.

How to Serve Vegan Hearty Stew with Soy Curls, Potatoes, Carrots, and Green Peas Recipe

The image shows two white bowls filled with thick vegetable stew that has a rich orange-brown broth. The stew contains chunks of yellow potatoes, orange carrots, green peas, and pieces of shredded meat, all mixed evenly throughout. The surface of the stew is garnished with small bits of chopped green herbs. One bowl in the foreground has a silver spoon resting inside it, while the other bowl is partially visible behind it. Both bowls sit on a white marbled surface with a bunch of fresh bright green celery stalks on the right side and a grey cloth napkin beneath the bowls. The photo is taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I’m a big fan of finishing this stew with freshly chopped parsley—it brightens the dish with a touch of herbal freshness and makes it look inviting. Sometimes, I also sprinkle a little freshly cracked black pepper or a pinch of smoked paprika for an extra layer of warmth right on top.

Side Dishes

This Vegan Hearty Stew is perfect with crusty bread to soak up the sauce, or you can serve it alongside fluffy vegan biscuits for a real soul-warming meal. A crisp green salad or simple steamed greens also balance the richness nicely if you want a lighter side.

Creative Ways to Present

For cozy dinner parties, I like to serve this stew in individual rustic bowls placed on wooden boards, with a small ramekin of extra parsley and crusty rolls on the side. It adds a homey charm that makes guests feel right at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This stew reheats beautifully and often tastes even better the next day once the flavors have melded. I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days—just pop it into the fridge as soon as it’s cooled.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this Vegan Hearty Stew with Soy Curls, Potatoes, Carrots, and Green Peas Recipe in portioned containers with great success. Just leave out the peas when freezing and add fresh when reheating to keep their color and texture. It stays fresh for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If it’s too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up. Avoid microwaving at high power to preserve texture and flavor.

FAQs

  1. Can I make this Vegan Hearty Stew with Soy Curls, Potatoes, Carrots, and Green Peas Recipe gluten-free?

    Absolutely! To keep it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch in the soy curl coating and use gluten-free broth or bouillon. The stew thickens just as nicely, and the flavors remain delicious.

  2. What can I substitute if I don’t have soy curls?

    You can use shredded jackfruit, diced tempeh, or chopped seitan as great alternatives. Keep in mind jackfruit doesn’t need soaking and has a softer texture, while tempeh adds a nuttier flavor. Each swap will bring a slightly different but tasty twist to the stew.

  3. Can I make this stew ahead of time?

    Yes! In fact, this stew tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded. Just store covered in the fridge overnight and reheat gently before serving. It’s perfect for meal prepping!

  4. Is the red wine necessary in the recipe?

    Not at all. The red wine adds depth and complexity, but you can easily omit it or replace it with additional vegetable broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar if you prefer. The stew will still be flavorful and hearty.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Hearty Stew with Soy Curls, Potatoes, Carrots, and Green Peas Recipe has become one of my go-to dishes because it’s both nourishing and satisfying, without being complicated. I love how the soy curls soak up all the flavors, giving the stew a rich, meaty feel that’s perfect for winter evenings or anytime you want a wholesome, comforting meal. Give it a try—you’ll find yourself making it again and again, sharing it with friends, and maybe even craving it yourself!

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Vegan Hearty Stew with Soy Curls, Potatoes, Carrots, and Green Peas Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 310 reviews
  • Author: Villerius
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

This classic and hearty Vegan Stew features rehydrated soy curls simmered with potatoes, carrots, celery, and a medley of herbs in a rich vegetable broth, thickened to perfection and bursting with comforting flavors. Perfect for a warm, nutritious meal that satisfies both vegans and meat-eaters alike.


Ingredients

Soy Curl ‘Beef’

  • 3 cups warm water
  • 1 tablespoon Better Than Bouillon vegetable paste*
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 8 ounce bag soy curls
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

The Rest

  • 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup red wine (may leave out if needed)
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 1/2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 2 russets)
  • 4 medium carrots, peeled and cut into 1 inch pieces
  • 4 stalks celery, cut into 1 inch pieces
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch*
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 cup frozen green peas, thawed
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh chopped parsley, optional for garnish


Instructions

  1. Rehydrate Soy Curls: In a large bowl, mix the warm water, Better Than Bouillon vegetable paste, and soy sauce until well combined. Add the soy curls and soak for 10 minutes until fully rehydrated. Drain the soy curls, then return them to the bowl and toss with garlic powder, black pepper, and all-purpose flour to coat evenly.
  2. Sauté Aromatics and Soy Curls: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the coated soy curls, chopped onion, and minced garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and the onions start to soften. Pour in the red wine (optional) and vegetable broth, stirring to deglaze the pot and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom for added flavor.
  3. Add Vegetables and Simmer: Stir in cubed potatoes, carrots, celery, tomato paste, dried rosemary, and dried thyme. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the stew simmer gently for about 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and flavors meld.
  4. Thicken the Stew: In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to create a smooth slurry. Slowly add this mixture to the simmering stew while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the stew reaches a thick and hearty consistency. Use only as much slurry as needed for your preferred thickness.
  5. Finish and Serve: Stir in the thawed green peas and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot alongside crusty bread, biscuits, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy your warm, comforting vegan stew!

Notes

  • Other vegan “beef” options include jackfruit (which can be sautéed with onions and garlic without soaking), chopped tempeh, seitan, cut-up Beyond Burgers, or other vegan meat substitutes.
  • If Better Than Bouillon vegetable paste is unavailable, substitute the 3 cups of warm water and paste with 3 cups of vegetable broth when rehydrating soy curls.
  • You may substitute gluten-free flour or cornstarch for the all-purpose flour in the soy curl mixture for a gluten-free option.
  • Arrowroot powder works well as a substitute for cornstarch to thicken the stew.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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