Best Vegan Baked Bean Recipe for Easy Delicious Meals

Baked beans are a classic comfort food that warms the soul and satisfies the appetite. But traditional baked beans often include animal products or excessive sugars, which can be a challenge for those following a vegan lifestyle.

That’s why this best vegan baked bean recipe is a total game-changer! It’s hearty, flavorful, and made with wholesome, plant-based ingredients that come together to create a delicious dish you can enjoy any time of the year.

Whether you’re serving it as a side dish at a barbecue or as a main meal with some crusty bread, these beans will impress everyone at the table—even the non-vegans!

With a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors, this recipe is both nutritious and budget-friendly. Plus, it’s super easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

Keep reading to discover why this recipe should be your go-to baked beans dish and how to make it perfectly every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan baked bean recipe is a standout for many reasons. First, it uses simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a powerful flavor punch without relying on any animal products.

The beans are slow-cooked to tender perfection, soaking up a rich sauce made from natural sweeteners, tangy tomato paste, and a hint of smoky paprika.

It’s also incredibly versatile. You can easily double the recipe for meal prepping or tailor the spices for a more spicy or mild version.

Plus, it stores beautifully in the fridge and even tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to eat more plant-based meals, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 cups dried navy beans (or 4 cups canned, drained and rinsed)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup tomato paste
• 1/4 cup maple syrup or agave nectar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt to taste

Equipment

• Large bowl (for soaking beans)
• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander (for rinsing beans)
• Knife and cutting board
• Optional: slow cooker or ovenproof dish if baking

Instructions

1. Soak the beans: If using dried navy beans, place them in a large bowl and cover with water by about 2 inches. Soak overnight or for at least 8 hours. Drain and rinse before cooking.
2. Cook the beans: Transfer the soaked beans to a large pot and cover with fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour until tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté the aromatics: In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
4. Add the sauce ingredients: Stir in the tomato paste, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, smoked paprika, ground mustard, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Combine beans and sauce: Return the cooked beans to the pot and stir to coat them in the sauce. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Simmer and thicken: Let the beans simmer uncovered over low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken and intensify in flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or additional maple syrup if desired.
7. Serve: Once the sauce has thickened to your liking and the beans are tender, remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

For an extra smoky flavor, add a small piece of smoked seaweed or a few drops of liquid smoke to the sauce.

You can swap navy beans for other varieties like cannellini or great northern beans depending on what you have on hand. If you prefer a chunkier texture, add diced bell peppers or mushrooms when sautéing the onions.

For a bit of a kick, mix in chopped chipotle peppers or hot sauce.

To make this recipe in a slow cooker, follow steps 1-4 on the stovetop, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. If you want to bake the beans for a traditional touch, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and transfer the bean mixture to an ovenproof dish.

Bake uncovered for 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring halfway through.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Vegan baked beans are incredibly versatile and pair well with many dishes. Serve them alongside grilled vegetables or vegan sausages for a classic BBQ feel.

You can also spoon them over baked potatoes or rice for a satisfying meal. They make a fantastic topping for toast or a hearty filling for wraps and sandwiches.

For a full meal, consider pairing this dish with a fresh salad like the Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe to add a refreshing crunch. Or, for a cozy brunch option, try them with homemade bread such as the Marzipan Challah Recipe.

If you love experimenting with dough, check out the Magic Dough Recipe for a perfect complement to your beans.

Conclusion

This vegan baked bean recipe combines the best of flavor, nutrition, and ease of preparation to deliver a dish that truly satisfies. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just cooking for yourself, these beans offer a hearty, wholesome option that fits perfectly into any plant-based diet.

The rich sauce and tender beans create a comforting meal that’s perfect for any season.

By using simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can create a dish that’s not only delicious but also good for you and the planet. Don’t hesitate to customize it to your taste with different spices or add-ins.

Once you try this recipe, it will definitely become a staple in your vegan recipe collection!

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