Barbecue Beans Recipe Vegan: Easy & Delicious Meal Idea

Barbecue beans are a classic comfort food that evoke memories of summer cookouts, family gatherings, and smoky, savory goodness. But what if you’re following a vegan lifestyle or just want to enjoy a plant-based twist on this hearty dish?

Look no further! This vegan barbecue beans recipe is bursting with flavor, combining tender beans with a rich, tangy, and slightly sweet barbecue sauce that will satisfy even the most devoted meat lovers.

Not only is this recipe easy to prepare, but it’s also packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.

Whether you’re serving it as a side dish at your next barbecue or enjoying it as a main course with some crusty bread, these vegan barbecue beans will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.

Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—customizable with your favorite beans and spices to suit your taste buds. Ready to dive into this smoky, hearty, and delicious dish?

Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan barbecue beans recipe is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that bring warmth and satisfaction to your table. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Rich, smoky flavor without any animal products, thanks to natural ingredients like smoked paprika and liquid smoke.
• High in protein and fiber from a combination of beans, perfect for a nutritious and filling meal.
• Simple and quick to prepare using pantry staples and minimal effort.
• Versatile and customizable — add your favorite beans, tweak the spices, or adjust the sweetness to suit your taste.
• Perfect for any occasion — from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings and potlucks.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked kidney beans (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup cooked black beans (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup cooked pinto beans (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt to taste
• 1 cup water or vegetable broth

Equipment

• Large skillet or saucepan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and chopping board
• Can opener (if using canned beans)
• Serving bowl

Instructions

1. Prepare your beans. If using canned beans, drain and rinse them thoroughly under cold water to reduce sodium and remove excess starch. If using dried beans, ensure they are properly soaked and cooked until tender.
2. Sauté the aromatics. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 5-6 minutes until translucent and soft. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the spices. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Stir constantly for about 30 seconds to toast the spices and release their aromas.
4. Mix in the liquids. Pour in the tomato sauce, molasses, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and liquid smoke. Stir well to combine all the flavors into a rich barbecue sauce base.
5. Add the beans and simmer. Gently fold in the kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans. Pour in the water or vegetable broth to loosen the sauce. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and the flavors will meld beautifully.
6. Adjust seasoning. Taste and add salt if needed. If you prefer a thicker consistency, continue simmering for a few more minutes. For a thinner sauce, add a bit more water or broth.
7. Serve warm. Once the beans are tender and the sauce is flavorful, remove from heat. Serve immediately or keep warm until ready to enjoy.

Tips & Variations

“For a smoky depth, don’t skip the liquid smoke — just a little goes a long way!”

• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to amp up the heat.
• Swap the beans: Use navy beans, cannellini, or chickpeas for a different texture and flavor.
• Add veggies: Stir in diced bell peppers, corn, or shredded carrots for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it in the slow cooker: Combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours for a hands-off approach.
• Batch cooking: This recipe freezes well — store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
• For a smoky BBQ flavor without liquid smoke: Try smoked paprika and a splash of brewed strong black tea for a natural smokiness.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan barbecue beans recipe is incredibly versatile and pairs well with many dishes. Try serving it alongside grilled vegetables, vegan cornbread, or your favorite plant-based burgers for a classic BBQ feast.

It’s also fantastic spooned over steamed rice or baked potatoes for a hearty meal.

For a snack or appetizer, serve the beans with tortilla chips or use them as a filling for vegan tacos or burritos. If you’re looking to add more variety to your menu, pair this dish with some freshly baked bread like our Hamburger Bun Sourdough Recipe or enjoy a sweet treat afterward from our Glazed Twist Donut Recipe.

Conclusion

This vegan barbecue beans recipe is a delicious, nutritious, and satisfying dish that fits perfectly into any plant-based or vegan diet. With its smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors, it captures the essence of traditional barbecue beans without any animal products.

The combination of three types of beans provides a hearty texture and ample protein, making it ideal for a main course or a hearty side.

Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is simple to prepare and easy to customize according to your taste. Don’t forget to explore other vegan delights like our Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe or the flavorful Kikkoman Stir Fry Sauce Recipe to round out your plant-based culinary adventures.

Enjoy your barbecue beans hot off the stove or as leftovers — either way, they’re sure to become a favorite in your recipe box!

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