Black Eyed Beans Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Ideas

Black eyed beans, also known as black-eyed peas, are a staple legume cherished worldwide for their earthy flavor and impressive nutritional profile. This vegetarian black eyed beans recipe is a delightful, hearty dish that’s both nourishing and packed with flavor.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just exploring plant-based meals, this recipe offers a fantastic way to enjoy these versatile beans. Cooked with aromatic spices, fresh vegetables, and herbs, the dish is perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner.

Plus, it’s simple enough for weeknight cooking but flavorful enough to impress your guests.

Not only do black eyed beans provide a great source of protein and fiber, but they also help keep you full and energized. This recipe embraces the best of vegetarian cooking — wholesome ingredients, balanced spices, and satisfying textures.

Ready to add a new favorite to your recipe collection? Let’s dive into making this delicious and nutritious black eyed beans vegetarian recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This black eyed beans vegetarian recipe is a perfect blend of health and flavor. It’s:

• Nutritious: Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
• Flavorful: Uses a combination of spices and fresh veggies to create rich, comforting taste.
• Easy to Make: Requires basic kitchen equipment and simple steps.
• Versatile: Great as a main dish or side, and pairs wonderfully with rice, bread, or salads.
• Budget-Friendly: Beans are affordable and filling, making this recipe economical and wholesome.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried black eyed beans (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium tomato, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
• Juice of half a lemon (optional, for brightness)

Equipment

• Large bowl (for soaking beans if using dried)
• Fine mesh strainer
• Large saucepan or pot with lid
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Chopping board and sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Prepare the beans: If using dried black eyed beans, rinse them thoroughly and soak in a large bowl with plenty of water for at least 6 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse before cooking. If using canned beans, simply drain and rinse.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
3. Add vegetables and spices: Stir in the diced green bell pepper and chopped tomato. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and thyme. Stir well to coat the vegetables with spices.
4. Cook the beans: Add the soaked (or canned) black eyed beans to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth, and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer for about 45-60 minutes if using dried beans (or 15-20 minutes if canned) until the beans are tender and the flavors meld together.
5. Season to taste: Once the beans are soft, season with salt and black pepper to your liking. If the mixture is too thick, add a little more vegetable broth or water to reach your preferred consistency.
6. Finish and serve: Remove from heat, stir in the fresh lemon juice for a bright, fresh finish. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro. Serve hot.

Tips & Variations

“Soaking dried beans overnight not only reduces cooking time but also improves digestibility.”

• Soaking beans: If short on time, you can do a quick soak by boiling dried beans for 2 minutes, then removing from heat and letting them soak for 1 hour before cooking.
• Make it smoky: Add a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce or smoked paprika for a deeper smoky flavor.
• Add more veggies: Feel free to include diced carrots, celery, or spinach for added nutrition and texture.
• Spice it up: Increase cayenne or add a dash of hot sauce if you like heat.
• Use canned beans: For a quicker version, canned black eyed beans work well — just reduce cooking time accordingly.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This black eyed beans dish is wonderfully versatile. Here are some great ways to serve it:

• Over steamed rice or quinoa for a filling main course.
• With warm flatbreads or crusty whole grain bread to scoop up the beans.
• As a hearty side alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
• Top with avocado slices and a dollop of plain yogurt or vegan sour cream for creaminess.
• Pair with other vegetarian favorites like a Vegetarian Tex Mex recipe or complement with a fresh Vegetarian Swiss Chard recipe for a nutrient-rich meal.

Conclusion

This vegetarian black eyed beans recipe is a delicious and nutritious addition to any kitchen. It combines wholesome ingredients with simple cooking techniques to create a comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of year.

The earthy black eyed beans paired with fresh vegetables and fragrant spices offer a satisfying meal that’s both healthy and budget-friendly.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this recipe is sure to please. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more plant-based protein into your diet.

For more inspiring vegetarian recipes, check out our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for a sweet treat or try the Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes to complement your meals.

Enjoy cooking and happy eating!

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