Brown beans are a staple in many vegetarian kitchens, and for good reason! Their rich, earthy flavor and hearty texture make them a perfect base for a variety of dishes, from stews to salads.
This brown bean recipe vegetarian is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious and easy to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your repertoire, this recipe offers a comforting and satisfying option that will keep you coming back for more.
With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you can whip up a flavorful meal that highlights the natural goodness of brown beans.
Beans are packed with protein, fiber, and essential minerals, making them a powerhouse for health-conscious eaters. Plus, they’re budget-friendly and versatile, allowing you to customize the dish to your taste preferences.
So, get ready to enjoy a warm, nourishing bowl of brown beans that’s perfect for any day of the week!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegetarian brown bean recipe is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, the beans are slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in a creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
The blend of aromatic spices and fresh vegetables adds depth without overpowering the natural bean flavor. It’s a wholesome dish that can easily be made in large batches for meal prep or family dinners.
Additionally, this recipe is gluten-free, dairy-free, and can be adapted to be low sodium, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs. Whether served over rice, with warm bread, or as a filling for a veggie wrap, this brown bean dish provides comfort and nourishment with every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried brown beans (soaked overnight or quick-soaked)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes for heat
Equipment
- Large bowl (for soaking beans)
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander (for draining beans)
- Ladle
Instructions
- Soak the beans: Place the dried brown beans in a large bowl and cover with water. Let them soak overnight or use the quick-soak method by boiling them for 2 minutes, then letting sit for 1 hour.
- Drain and rinse: After soaking, drain the beans and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and spices: Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, thyme, and chili flakes if using. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add beans and liquids: Add the soaked beans, diced tomatoes (with juices), vegetable broth, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer gently for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if needed.
- Season: Remove the bay leaf. Season the beans with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust spices as needed.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy warm!
Tips & Variations
Tip: For a creamier texture, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot with the back of a spoon and stir them back in.
You can easily customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and color. For a smoky twist, try adding a splash of liquid smoke or smoked salt.
If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the chili flakes or add a diced jalapeño with the aromatics. For a Mediterranean flair, add olives and a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving.
To save time, you can use canned brown beans, though cooking dried beans from scratch enhances the flavor and texture. Just reduce the cooking time accordingly and rinse canned beans well to reduce sodium.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 220 kcal |
Protein | 14 g |
Carbohydrates | 38 g |
Dietary Fiber | 12 g |
Fat | 3.5 g |
Sodium | 320 mg (can be reduced) |
Iron | 3.6 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This brown bean recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it over fluffy brown rice or quinoa for a complete, protein-packed meal.
You can also enjoy it alongside warm cornbread or crusty whole-grain bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
For a lighter option, spoon the beans over a bed of fresh greens or roasted vegetables. Consider topping with avocado slices or a dollop of plain yogurt to add creaminess and balance.
Looking for more vegetarian inspiration? Check out our Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food for a hearty veggie-packed meal.
Conclusion
This brown bean recipe vegetarian is a delightful, wholesome dish that brings comfort and nutrition to your table. Its rich flavors and creamy texture will satisfy even the most discerning palates, making it a staple in your recipe collection.
The simple ingredients and adaptable nature of this dish allow you to make it your own while enjoying the health benefits of legumes.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this recipe is easy to prepare and scales well. Don’t forget to experiment with the spices and vegetables to keep it fresh and exciting every time.
For more delicious recipes, you might enjoy our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe or the comforting Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe, perfect for your next meal adventure.
Happy cooking and enjoy your nourishing brown beans!
📖 Recipe Card: Brown Bean Recipe Vegetarian
Description: A hearty and nutritious vegetarian dish made with brown beans and flavorful spices. Perfect as a main or side dish for a wholesome meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT45M
Total Time: PT60M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried brown beans
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Soak brown beans overnight and drain.
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
- Add diced tomato and cook for 3 minutes.
- Stir in cumin, paprika, and chili powder.
- Add soaked beans and vegetable broth.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for 40 minutes until beans are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 18 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 50 g
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