When the autumn moon rises and the wind whispers through the campsite, nothing beats brewing up a bubbling Beastly Beef & Black Bean Cauldron. Perfect for vanlife cooking, this one-pot wonder is hearty, flavour-packed, and hauntingly easy to make. Whether you’re parked in a forest or by the coast, this spooky stew will warm your bones and satisfy even the hungriest werewolves.

Ingredients

• 400g diced beef (lean or stewing cut)
• 1 tin black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 red pepper, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 tin chopped tomatoes
• 1 tbsp tomato purée
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• ½ tsp chilli powder (optional – for extra bite!)
• Olive oil for frying
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh coriander or parsley to garnish

Method

1. Summon your pan – Heat a dash of olive oil in your van’s hob pot or portable stove.
2. Awaken the beast – Add the diced beef and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Add the aroma of the undead – Stir in the onion and garlic, cooking until soft and golden.
4. Conjure the colour – Add red pepper, tomato purée, paprika, cumin, and chilli powder. Stir well.
5. Bring it to life – Pour in chopped tomatoes and black beans, then season with salt and pepper.
6. Let it bubble like a witch’s brew – Cover and simmer on a low heat for 25–30 minutes until the sauce thickens and the beef is tender.
7. Garnish and devour – Sprinkle with fresh herbs and serve with crusty bread or rice.

Conclusion

Rich, smoky, and deeply satisfying, this Beastly Beef & Black Bean Cauldron will keep you warm on even the chilliest Halloween night. Easy to cook in a van, it’s the ultimate spooky-season supper for anyone brave enough to face the cauldron!