Cafe Stepping is a community-driven vegetarian kitchen located in Ginninderry’s Strathnairn Arts precinct that provides “inclusive employment and practical training opportunities for migrant and refugee women from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds”.

We’re delighted that Co-founder Hannah Costello has agreed to share some of her delicious recipes in an ongoing series. First up, a hearty White Bean Stew that is perfect for cold winter days. Everything in this stew should be a ‘must have’ in your staples cupboard – a quick and easy dinner when you don’t know what to make!

Serves 3 – 4  people

Ingredients
3 tbsp Olive oil

1 Can of butter beans, drained

1 onion, diced

3 cloves of garlic, sliced

2 tbsp of tomato paste

1 tsp of chilli flake

2 tbsp of capers, roughly chopped

4 cups of water

1 bunch of broccolini (or other green veggies)

Salt and pepper to taste

Method

In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil on medium.

Add the onions and start sweating them down. Add a pinch of salt and some cracked black pepper. Stir occasionally and cook for 7-10 minutes or until the onions become soft and translucent.

Add in the sliced garlic, chopped capers and chilli flakes, and cook for 1 minute. Then add the tomato paste and cook for a further 4 minutes or until the colour turns a deep red and the oil starts separating from the mixture.

Next, add the white beans. Stir them around for a minute or two before adding in the water.

At this point taste the liquid, add at least another tsp of salt and more cracked black pepper but adjust to your preference.

Bring the mixture to a boil and then turn down the heat to medium low. Cook for 15 minutes.

Once the liquid has reduced slightly and starts to thicken add in the broccolini, or a green vegetable of your choice, and cook for a further 5-10 minutes.

Ladle the stew into bowls and serve with crusty toasted sourdough bread.

Other optional extras you could add are poached eggs, Greek yoghurt, shaved parmesan and any herb you like!

Visit Café Stepping Stone at Strathnairn Arts, 90 Stockdill Drive, Gullifer Street, Ginninderry for delicious fare like this!