7 Steps to Make Hearty and Delicious Mung Bean Stew at Home

Mung bean stew is a dish that warms you from the inside out. This humble yet flavorful stew is packed with nutrients and is incredibly satisfying. Originating from South Asia, mung beans have been a staple in many cultures for centuries, known for their health benefits and versatility. In this recipe, I’ll show you how to create a restaurant-quality mung bean stew in just a few easy steps, perfect for a cozy weeknight meal.

Quick Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Difficulty Level: Easy
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 250 per serving

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups mung beans, rinsed
• 6 cups vegetable broth (or water)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Sauté the Aromatics:** Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5-7 minutes.
2. **Add Garlic and Spices:** Stir in minced garlic, cumin, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. **Incorporate Mung Beans:** Add the rinsed mung beans to the pot. Stir well to coat the beans with the spices and vegetables.
4. **Add Liquid and Bay Leaf:** Pour in the vegetable broth (or water) and add the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
5. **Simmer the Stew:** Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for about 40-45 minutes, or until the mung beans are tender and have broken down slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. **Season to Taste:** Remove the bay leaf. Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste. If the stew is too thick, add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
7. **Garnish and Serve:** Ladle the mung bean stew into bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Pro Tips for Success

• **Soaking the Beans:** Soaking mung beans for a few hours before cooking can reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.
• **Spice Adjustment:** Adjust the amount of spices according to your preference. Start with the recommended amount and add more to taste.
• **Consistency Control:** For a creamier stew, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the stew after cooking.
• **Storage:** Mung bean stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

How to Serve and Present

Serve the mung bean stew hot in bowls, garnished with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a zesty touch. You can also serve it with a side of crusty bread or rice to soak up the delicious broth. For a more complete meal, consider adding a dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of toasted nuts.

Variations to Try

• **Coconut Mung Bean Stew:** Add a can of coconut milk to the stew during the last 15 minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier texture.
• **Spicy Mung Bean Stew:** Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a chopped chili pepper for extra heat.
• **Mung Bean and Vegetable Curry:** Add other vegetables like potatoes, spinach, or tomatoes for a heartier and more colorful stew.

FAQ Section

**Q: Can I use a different type of bean?**
A: While this recipe is specifically for mung beans, you can experiment with other types of beans like lentils or split peas, but cooking times may vary.

**Q: Do I need to soak the mung beans before cooking?**
A: Soaking is not required, but it can help reduce cooking time and make the beans more digestible. If you choose to soak them, do so for at least 2 hours or overnight.

**Q: Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?**
A: Yes, you can. Sauté the vegetables as instructed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beans are tender.

**Q: How can I make this stew vegan?**
A: This recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses vegetable broth. Just ensure all your ingredients are plant-based.

**Q: What if my stew is too watery?**
A: If your stew is too watery, simmer it uncovered for a longer period to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. You can also mash some of the beans to thicken the stew.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve just learned how to make a comforting and nutritious mung bean stew at home. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks. Enjoy the rich flavors and healthful benefits of this traditional dish. Share your results in the comments! You might also enjoy our recipes for lentil soup or chickpea curry.