After a particularly challenging week, I found myself yearning for a warm, comforting meal that would transport me to sunnier days. That’s when I stumbled upon the vibrant flavors of a Vegan Filipino Peanut Stew, a delightful dish brimming with fresh vegetables and luscious peanut butter. The mere thought of it ignited my imagination—each spoonful promises not only the rich taste of toasted peanuts but also the enticing aroma of garlic and onions mingling together, creating a symphony of flavors that’s hard to resist.
This stew brings a delightful twist to the classic comfort food theme, offering a unique balance of heartiness and lightness. Perfect for anyone seeking to break free from the monotony of fast food, it’s a simple yet satisfying recipe that’s bound to impress at the dinner table. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or simply indulging in a quiet evening, this dish ensures your taste buds will be dancing with joy. So let’s dive into this delicious, plant-based recipe that’s not just easy to prepare but incredibly rewarding!
Why will you love this Vegan Filipino Peanut Stew?
Comforting warmth is just the beginning; this stew is like a cozy hug in a bowl. Nutty goodness from the peanut butter and crushed peanuts combines beautifully, making each bite utterly satisfying. Vibrant vegetables not only add color but also essential nutrients, making it a wholesome meal. Easy to prepare, you can whip this up in just 40 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to keep things exciting in your kitchen and impress all your family and friends. For more delicious ways to elevate your plant-based meals, check out our vegan recipes collection.
Vegan Filipino Peanut Stew Ingredients
• Gather these vibrant ingredients to create your delicious Vegan Filipino Peanut Stew!
For the Base
- Atsuete or annatto seeds – adds a beautiful golden hue and earthy flavor to your stew.
- Hot water – used to soak the annatto seeds, releasing their color and essence.
- Neutral oil – ideal for sautéing without overpowering the dish.
For the Vegetables
- Chinese eggplants – tender and slightly sweet, they soak up the flavors beautifully.
- Long beans (sitaw) – add a lovely crunch and are perfect for stir-frying.
- Pechay tagalog or bok choy – brings freshness and a mild taste to balance the dish.
For the Sauce
- Onion – sautéed until fragrant, it forms the aromatic backbone of your stew.
- Garlic – enhances the stew with its bold flavor; be sure to chop roughly for an enticing aroma.
- Crushed peanuts – provides texture and reinforces that nutty goodness in every bite.
- Smooth and creamy peanut butter – thickens the stew and delivers that rich, comforting taste.
- Vegetable broth (or water) – enriches the overall flavor; using a bouillon cube heightens that umami effect!
- White rice flour – helps thicken the stew for a perfect creamy consistency.
For Seasoning
- Sugar – counterbalances the savory elements and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Salt – use to taste; it’s essential for highlighting all the bright flavors in your dish.
- Vegetable broth or water (to thin out) – adjust the consistency to your liking, ensuring it’s just right.
How to Make Vegan Filipino Peanut Stew
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Soak the Annatto Seeds:
In a small bowl, combine the atsuete or annatto seeds with hot water. Allow them to soak and release their vibrant color for about 10-15 minutes. -
Prepare the Vegetables:
Slice the long beans into 2” pieces, cut the eggplants diagonally in halves and then into 2” pieces, and trim the ends off the pechay/tagalog, separating the leaves. -
Sauté the Eggplants:
Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of neutral oil. Sauté the eggplant for about 4 minutes until slightly tender, then remove and set aside. -
Cook the Long Beans:
Repeat the sautéing process for the long beans, adding a splash of water if necessary to help them cook. Remove them from the pan and set aside. -
Sauté the Pechay:
Quickly sauté the bok choy/pechay for 2-3 minutes until tender and vibrant, then remove it from the pan and set aside as well. -
Cook the Aromatics:
In the same pan, add the remaining oil. Once hot, sauté the garlic and onion for about 2 minutes until they are tender and fragrant. -
Toast the Peanuts:
Move the sautéed garlic and onion to the side of the pan, and add the crushed peanuts. Toast them for around 4 minutes until golden and aromatic. -
Incorporate the Peanut Butter:
Mix in the smooth and creamy peanut butter, stirring well to combine with the toasted peanuts. This will give your stew that luxurious texture. -
Add Broth and Simmer:
Pour in the vegetable broth (or water with a bouillon cube), stirring as you go. Let it simmer while continuously mixing until the peanut butter is completely dissolved and integrated. -
Thicken the Sauce:
Gradually mix in the rice flour until fully dissolved. Allow the sauce to boil gently until it thickens, stirring every 2-3 minutes to prevent clumping. -
Add Annatto Liquid:
Strain the annatto seeds from the soaking water and add the liquid to the stew. This will impart a beautiful color and unique flavor. Mix well. -
Combine the Vegetables:
Add the sautéed eggplants, long beans, and bok choy/pechay into the sauce. Stir to incorporate everything together, and season with salt and sugar according to your taste. -
Adjust Consistency:
If the stew is too thick for your liking, add more vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning. -
Finish Cooking:
Once all the vegetables are tender and the flavors melded together, turn off the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for an extra layer of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Vegan Filipino Peanut Stew
Fridge: Store leftover Vegan Filipino Peanut Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: For longer preservation, freeze the stew in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent ice crystals.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to restore the creaminess.
Airtight Storage: Always ensure containers are airtight to maintain flavors and prevent freezer burn, keeping your stew deliciously nutty and satisfying!
Expert Tips for Vegan Filipino Peanut Stew
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Right Annatto Soak: Ensure the annatto seeds are soaked in hot water for at least 10-15 minutes to extract their full color and flavor.
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Don’t Overcook Vegetables: Sauté the vegetables just until tender; they should retain their vibrant color and crunch for the best texture in your Vegan Filipino Peanut Stew.
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Control the Thickness: Start with less rice flour when thickening the sauce. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out once it’s in!
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Taste as You Go: Season with salt and sugar incrementally, tasting occasionally to achieve a well-balanced flavor in your stew.
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Customize to Your Liking: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for additional flavor and nutrition tailored to your taste!
Vegan Filipino Peanut Stew Variations
Invite yourself to get creative with this stew and discover how you can tailor it to your taste buds!
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced Thai chili peppers while sautéing the onions and garlic for a vibrant heat that elevates the dish.
- Nut-Free Option: Swap out the peanuts altogether and use sunflower seed butter for a deliciously nut-free alternative without compromising on creaminess.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots to enrich the flavor and add more color to the meal.
- Coconut Creamy: Replace half of the vegetable broth with coconut milk for a richer, creamy texture that gives your stew an exotic twist.
- Sweet & Savory: Mix in a tablespoon of maple syrup or coconut sugar for a touch of sweetness that balances the savory elements beautifully.
- Protein Boost: Stir in cooked tofu or tempeh to add a hearty protein component, making this stew even more satisfying.
- Grain Swap: Serve the stew over quinoa or farro instead of rice for added texture and a nutty flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
- Herb Forward: Garnish with fresh cilantro, basil, or mint before serving to brighten the dish and add layers of aromatic freshness.
What to Serve with Vegan Filipino Peanut Stew?
Creating a memorable meal means finding the perfect companions for this luscious stew that brings comfort to your table.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fluffy bed of jasmine rice complements the rich peanut flavors, soaking up every savory drop. It’s a classic pairing that can’t be missed!
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Crispy Fried Tofu: The crunchy exterior contrasts beautifully with the creamy stew, adding a protein boost and making it even more filling.
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Sautéed Greens: Bright greens like chard or kale enhance the dish’s nutritional profile while adding a fresh, vibrant element that balances the richness of the stew.
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Coconut Rice: Infused with creamy coconut, this side dish adds a delightful sweetness that harmonizes splendidly with the nutty flavors of the stew. Each bite is pure bliss.
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Fresh Mango Salad: A tangy salad with mangoes and tomatoes provides a refreshing contrast; the sweetness of mango brightens the meal perfectly.
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Pineapple Ginger Juice: A tropical beverage with a zesty kick not only hydrates but also adds a fun touch to your dining experience, making it feel like a culinary getaway!
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Vegetable Spring Rolls: Light, crisp rolls filled with fresh veggies make for an exciting appetizer, setting the stage for a satisfying and vibrant meal.
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Chocolate Avocado Mousse: Finish your meal with this velvety dessert that echoes the richness of the stew while offering a light and indulgent close to your evening.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Filipino Peanut Stew ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables (eggplants, long beans, and bok choy) up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their crispness. Additionally, you can prepare the peanut sauce (including sautéing the garlic and onion, adding crushed peanuts, and mixing in peanut butter) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce in a skillet, add the sautéed vegetables, and simmer until everything is heated through. This way, you’ll enjoy a wholesome meal on busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor or quality!
Vegan Filipino Peanut Stew Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe vegetables for this stew?
Absolutely! When choosing vegetables, look for Chinese eggplants that are firm and glossy with no dark spots, and long beans that are vibrant green and snap easily. For pechay, select leaves that are crisp and show no signs of wilting. Freshness makes a significant difference in flavor!
How should I store leftover Vegan Filipino Peanut Stew?
To store your stew, pack it into an airtight container and refrigerate it. It will keep well for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat on the stove or microwave until warmed through—easy peasy!
Can I freeze Vegan Filipino Peanut Stew?
Yes, you can! For best results, let the stew cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Freeze it in portion-sized servings for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water if needed.
What can I do if the stew is too thick after cooking?
Very! If you find your stew has thickened more than you’d like, simply add small amounts of vegetable broth or water. Stir gently, allowing it to mix well, until you reach your desired consistency. This will keep the creamy texture you love without compromising flavor!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
While this Vegan Filipino Peanut Stew is already plant-based and free from common allergens like dairy or meat, it does contain peanuts—so if you have nut allergies, it’s advisable to substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini for a similar creaminess. Always check labels for any specific allergens in other ingredients like broth!
How long can I keep the stew in the fridge?
You can store your Vegan Filipino Peanut Stew in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container for optimum freshness!
Delicious Vegan Filipino Peanut Stew for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak the annatto seeds in hot water for 10-15 minutes.
- Prepare the vegetables by slicing the long beans, cut the eggplants and trim the pechay.
- Sauté the eggplants in oil for 4 minutes until tender, then remove.
- Sauté the long beans until tender and set aside.
- Quickly sauté the pechay for 2-3 minutes, then remove.
- Sauté garlic and onion for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Toast crushed peanuts in the same pan for 4 minutes.
- Mix in peanut butter until well combined.
- Pour in vegetable broth, stirring until dissolved.
- Gradually mix in rice flour, allowing the sauce to thicken.
- Add the annatto liquid to the stew and mix well.
- Combine sautéed vegetables and season with salt and sugar.
- Adjust the consistency with broth or water if necessary.
- Turn off the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.