Hearty & Delicious Pumpkin Stew: A Cosy Autumn Favourite

As the weather cools down, there's nothing better than a warm, hearty stew to keep you cosy. This savoury pumpkin stew is the perfect comfort food, combining rich fall flavours with a variety of wholesome ingredients. Packed with vegetables, protein, and creamy coconut milk, this stew is not only delicious but also nourishing. Whether you’re cooking for the family or prepping meals for the week, this pumpkin stew will quickly become a autumn favourite. 

Ingredients: 

- Olive oil 

- 1 yellow onion, diced 

- 1 pound ground beef or turkey (can be substituted for a vegan option, like plant-based ground meat) 

- 3-4 russet potatoes, diced 

- 4 cups broth (chicken, beef, or vegetable) 

- 1 can pumpkin puree (15 oz) 

- 1 can white beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed 

- 1 bunch curly kale, chopped 

- ⅔ cup coconut milk 

- Spices: 2 bay leaves, 1 teaspoon dried basil, salt and pepper to taste 

How to Make Savoury Pumpkin Stew 

Step 1: Sauté the Onion 

Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced yellow onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften and begin to caramelise. This step builds a flavourful base for the stew. 

Step 2: Brown the Meat 

Next, add your ground meat (beef or turkey) to the pot with the onions. Cook the meat until it's browned, stirring occasionally to break it up into small pieces. This should take about 5-7 minutes. If you're going for a vegan version, feel free to substitute with plant-based ground meat or even skip this step altogether and add extra beans or lentils for protein. 

Step 3: Add the Soup Ingredients 

Once the meat is cooked, it’s time to "soup it up"! Add the diced potatoes, broth, canned pumpkin puree, white beans, bay leaves, dried basil, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together, bringing all the flavors to life. 

Step 4: Simmer 

Bring the stew to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and the flavours have melded together beautifully. 

Step 5: Finish with Kale & Coconut Milk 

Now it’s time to add the final touches. Stir in the chopped kale and ⅔ cup of coconut milk. Allow the stew to simmer again for a few minutes, just until the kale wilts and the coconut milk blends into the broth, adding a creamy, slightly sweet finish. 

Tips for Making the Best Pumpkin Stew: 

- Choose your protein: Ground beef or turkey works well in this stew, but for a lighter option, you can use ground chicken. For a vegan alternative, plant-based meat or extra beans will work just fine. 

- Use fresh or canned pumpkin: While canned pumpkin puree makes this recipe super convenient, feel free to use fresh roasted pumpkin for a more robust flavor. 

- Add your favorite vegetables: Feel free to mix in other fall vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or butternut squash to boost the nutrition and flavour. 

- Adjust the spices: Feel free to experiment with other spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or thyme to give the stew your own twist. 

 Why You'll Love This Pumpkin Stew: 

This pumpkin stew is loaded with nourishing ingredients like kale, beans, and potatoes, making it not only flavourful but also incredibly filling. The addition of coconut milk adds a rich creaminess that perfectly balances the savory spices and hearty meat (or plant-based protein). Plus, it’s a great make-ahead meal that tastes even better the next day. 

As autumn sets in, this savoury pumpkin stew is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Warm, hearty, and packed with fall flavours, it’s the perfect dish to enjoy with loved ones or as a simple meal-prep option. Grab a bowl, curl up, and enjoy the comfort of homemade goodness!