Brazilian Black Bean Recipe Vegetarian Style Made Easy

Brazilian cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its vibrant flavors and hearty dishes, and one of its most iconic staples is the black bean stew known as Feijoada. Traditionally made with various meats, this vegetarian adaptation captures the essence of Brazil’s beloved comfort food without compromising on taste or nutrition.

Perfect for those seeking a wholesome, plant-based meal, this recipe combines rich black beans with an aromatic blend of vegetables and spices, delivering a satisfying and protein-packed dish. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking to explore new flavors, this Brazilian black bean recipe is a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire.

With its deep, smoky undertones and vibrant seasoning, this stew is ideal for cozy dinners or entertaining friends. Paired with fluffy white rice, sautéed collard greens, and freshly chopped orange slices, it offers a truly authentic Brazilian experience.

Plus, it’s easy to make and uses simple pantry staples, making it a go-to for weeknight meals or meal prepping. Dive into this hearty, nutritious, and flavorful dish and bring a taste of Brazil right to your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian Brazilian black bean recipe is a delightful twist on the classic Feijoada that doesn’t rely on meat to deliver bold flavor. It’s packed with plant-based protein and fiber from black beans, making it both filling and nutritious.

The use of fresh vegetables and spices creates a complex taste, with a perfect balance of smokiness, sweetness, and earthiness.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility and ease of preparation. You can make it in a slow cooker, pressure cooker, or on the stovetop, and it keeps well for leftovers or freezing.

It’s perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. This dish also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and can be easily adapted to suit your spice preferences or dietary needs.

If you love exploring international cuisines or want to add more vegetarian dishes to your menu, this Brazilian black bean recipe is a must-try. And if you’re interested in other hearty meals, check out our Chipotle Black Beans And Rice Recipe for another flavorful bean dish.

Ingredients

• 2 cups dried black beans (or 4 cups canned black beans, drained and rinsed)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 small bunch fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Juice of 1 lime

Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Colander (for rinsing beans)
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Optional: Slow cooker or pressure cooker

Instructions

1. Prepare the black beans: If using dried beans, rinse them thoroughly and soak overnight in plenty of water. Drain and rinse again before cooking. If using canned beans, skip this step.
2. Cook the beans: In a large pot, add soaked beans and cover with fresh water by about 2 inches. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer uncovered for 1 to 1.5 hours or until beans are tender but not mushy. If using canned beans, skip to step 3.
3. Sauté the aromatics: In a separate large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, bell pepper, and carrot: Stir and cook for another 3-4 minutes until vegetables soften.
5. Season the vegetables: Add smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, bay leaf, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to coat the veggies with spices.
6. Add tomato paste and broth: Stir in the tomato paste, then pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. Combine beans and stew: Add the cooked or canned black beans to the pot with the vegetable mixture. Stir gently and let everything simmer together for 20-30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
8. Adjust seasoning and finish: Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the fresh lime juice to brighten the dish.
9. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top just before serving.

Tips & Variations

“For a smoky depth without meat, try adding a few drops of liquid smoke or smoked paprika. For extra richness, stir in a splash of coconut milk or a teaspoon of molasses.”

Use canned black beans if you’re short on time — just be sure to rinse them well to reduce sodium content. You can also add other vegetables like diced tomatoes, kale, or sweet potatoes to increase nutrition and texture.

To make this recipe even more authentic, serve it with traditional Brazilian sides such as white rice, sautéed collard greens, and orange slices. For a variation, consider stirring in some cooked quinoa or farofa (toasted cassava flour) for added texture.

For a smoky twist, try pairing this dish with our Chipotle Black Beans and Rice Recipe which complements the flavors beautifully.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This Brazilian black bean stew is incredibly versatile. Serve it over steamed white rice for a classic presentation or mix it with brown rice or quinoa for extra fiber and protein.

Add sautéed collard greens or kale on the side to bring a fresh, slightly bitter contrast that balances the rich beans.

For a festive touch, serve with freshly sliced oranges, which is a traditional Brazilian pairing that helps cut through the hearty flavors with a burst of citrusy sweetness. You can also add a dollop of vegan sour cream or avocado slices for creaminess.

Looking for a dessert to round out your Brazilian-inspired meal? Try our Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe for a sweet and spiced finish that perfectly complements the savory stew.

Conclusion

This vegetarian Brazilian black bean recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy the rich flavors of Brazil while embracing a plant-based lifestyle. It’s hearty, comforting, and packed with nutrition, making it an excellent choice for any meal.

The slow-simmered beans absorb the fragrant spices and vegetables, creating a stew that’s both satisfying and full of depth.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe is a reliable crowd-pleaser that can be made ahead and easily customized. It’s an inviting dish that celebrates the heart of Brazilian cuisine in a vegetarian-friendly way.

Give it a try and explore more global flavors with recipes like our Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe or the indulgent Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe for dessert inspiration.

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