Easy Coconut Yam Stew with Canned Beans

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This stew came together on a snow day, when leaving the house wasn’t happening and comfort was the goal. I used what I already had in my pantry: canned beans, tomatoes, coconut milk, plus a few fresh collard greens that needed to be used up. The result was a warm, nourishing one-pot meal, perfect for a snowy day.

Ingredients

• 1–2 Tbsp olive oil or coconut oil

• 1 medium onion, diced (optional but recommended)

• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1–2 tsp jerk seasoning

• ½ tsp chili powder or red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 2 medium yams, peeled and diced

• 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 can diced tomatoes

• 1 bunch fresh collard greens, stems removed and chopped

• ½–1 cup tomato puree (depending on how tomato-forward you want it)

• 1 can coconut milk

• ½–1 cup water or vegetable broth (as needed)

Optional Pantry Add-Ins

• 1 tsp sugar or honey (balances acidity)

• Bay leaf

• Dried thyme or oregano

• Splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice at the end

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft (5–7 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

2. Add paprika, jerk seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir for 30–60 seconds to wake up the spices.

3. Stir in diced yams, coating them in the spice mixture.

4. Add diced tomatoes, tomato puree, coconut milk, and water/broth. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.

5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 20–25 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender.

6. Stir in kidney beans and chopped collard greens uncovered another 5–10 minutes to thicken.

7. Add salt, a pinch of sugar, or a splash of vinegar/lemon juice if needed.

How to Serve

• Over rice or quinoa

• With crusty bread or naan

• On its own as a thick, comforting bowl

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Hi, I’m Regina of The Faithful Feast. I'm also a writer and catering business owner. I live in the Buckeye State with my wonderful family, where our weekends are often filled with football games and faith-filled conversations. I’m passionate about encouraging women to notice God’s goodness in everyday life, especially over a cozy cup of tea. Whether I’m sharing a soul-warming recipe or writing words that encourage you, my heart is to inspire you to find joy and purpose right where you are.