Slow Cooker Borlotti Bean Stew with Carrots and Sage Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during the vegetable layering phase. This provides a subtle warmth that complements the sweetness of the carrots and the earthiness of the beans.

If the stew appears too thick after cooking, stir in a tablespoon of water or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.

If you prefer a more rustic texture, you can lightly mash a small portion of the beans against the side of the slow cooker insert before serving.

This releases some of the starch into the sauce, making it naturally creamier and more substantial. Always use a wooden or silicone spoon to avoid scratching the ceramic coating of your slow cooker insert.

Variations

• Spicy Bean Stew: Add one small diced jalapeño or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes during the vegetable phase for a gentle, warming heat that complements the earthy beans.
• Root Vegetable Medley: Substitute half of the carrots with diced parsnips or sweet potatoes for added variety and a slightly sweeter flavor profile that pairs well with the sage.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until heated through.

Allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature for no more than two hours. Once cooled, transfer the stew into an airtight container.

Properly stored, it will maintain its quality and freshness in the refrigerator for up to three days. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to prevent the absorption of other odors from the refrigerator.

This stew is an excellent candidate for making ahead, as the flavors often improve after sitting for a day. Prepare the recipe as directed, cool it completely, and store it in the refrigerator.

When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a tiny splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.

Serving ideas

Serve this stew piping hot in deep, warmed bowls to maintain its temperature. It pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty sourdough bread or a side of steamed greens. The simplicity of the dish allows it to stand alone as a main course or serve as a hearty accompaniment to a larger meal.

For a bright finish, consider garnishing each serving with a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil or a fresh herb sprig. The contrast between the hot, savory beans and the fresh, cold garnish adds another layer of texture and flavor that elevates the presentation of this rustic home-style meal.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Borlotti Bean Stew with Carrots and Sage

Prep 10 minCook 4 hTotal 4 h 10 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked borlotti beans, drained
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• 6 leaves fresh sage, whole
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1 cup tomato coulis

Instructions

1. Add the prepared borlotti beans into the base of the slow cooker insert. Ensure the beans are spread evenly across the bottom to allow for uniform cooking and flavor distribution throughout the stew.
2. Scatter the diced carrots and celery over the beans. Place the fresh sage leaves and crushed garlic on top of the vegetables to infuse the cooking liquid with aromatic depth as the stew simmers.
3. Pour the tomato coulis over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded into a thick, glossy stew.

Contains: celery

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

280

Protein

12 g

Carbohydrates

48 g

Fat

3.5 g

Fiber

14 g

Sugar

6 g

Sodium

450 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.