Broad Beans Recipe Vegan: Easy & Delicious Plant-Based Ideas

Broad beans, also known as fava beans, are a versatile and nutrient-packed legume that shines in vegan cooking. Their earthy flavor and satisfying texture make them a fantastic base for a variety of dishes, from hearty stews to fresh salads.

If you’ve been looking to add a delicious, plant-based protein to your meals, this broad beans recipe is the perfect place to start. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it’s also incredibly simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend cooking.

In this recipe, we’ll explore how to transform fresh or frozen broad beans into a vibrant, savory dish bursting with Mediterranean-inspired herbs and spices. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just experimenting with plant-based meals, this recipe will help you discover the wonderful potential of broad beans in your kitchen.

Let’s dive in and get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This broad beans vegan recipe is a celebration of simplicity and flavor. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your recipe collection:

• Nutritious and filling: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, broad beans keep you satisfied and energized.
• Easy to prepare: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for cooks of all levels.
• Customizable and versatile: Add your favorite herbs, spices, or veggies to tailor the dish to your taste.
• Perfect for meal prep: This dish keeps well in the fridge, making leftovers just as tasty as fresh.
• Vegan and allergy-friendly: Free from animal products and common allergens, it suits a wide range of dietary preferences.

Ingredients

• 500g broad beans (fresh or frozen, shelled)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Water or vegetable broth, as needed

Equipment

• Large pot or saucepan
• Colander or sieve
• Knife and chopping board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Citrus juicer (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the broad beans: If using fresh broad beans, shell them first. To remove the tough outer skin, blanch the beans in boiling water for 2 minutes, then transfer them to ice water. This makes peeling easier. If using frozen beans, thaw them before cooking.
2. Sauté aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking until fragrant and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Add spices: Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chili flakes (if using). Cook for another minute to toast the spices and deepen their flavor.
4. Cook the broad beans: Add the peeled broad beans to the pot. Pour in enough water or vegetable broth to just cover the beans. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10–15 minutes, or until the beans are tender but still hold their shape.
5. Season and finish: Remove the lid and let any excess liquid evaporate if necessary. Stir in the lemon juice and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature: Transfer the beans to a serving dish and drizzle with a little extra olive oil if desired.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra burst of flavor, try adding roasted cherry tomatoes or a handful of toasted pine nuts on top before serving.”

Here are some ideas to make this recipe your own:

• Herbs: Swap parsley for fresh mint, cilantro, or dill for a different flavor profile.
• Spices: Experiment with turmeric or coriander for a subtle twist.
• Texture: Mash half the beans to create a creamy base and leave the rest whole for a satisfying contrast.
• Additional veggies: Incorporate sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to bulk up the dish.
• Protein boost: Add cooked quinoa or chickpeas for an even heartier meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This broad beans vegan dish is wonderfully versatile and pairs well with many sides and meals. Consider these serving ideas:

• Serve over a bed of fluffy couscous or quinoa for a complete meal.
• Accompany with crusty wholegrain bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
• Add a dollop of vegan yogurt or tahini sauce for creaminess and extra richness.
• Include as part of a mezze platter alongside hummus, olives, and roasted vegetables.
• Pair with light salads like cucumber and tomato or a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.

Conclusion

Broad beans are a fantastic ingredient to feature in your vegan kitchen, offering both nourishment and satisfying flavor. This recipe brings out their natural earthiness while layering in bright, fresh notes from lemon and herbs.

It’s easy to prepare, adaptable, and perfect for those looking to eat plant-based without sacrificing taste or heartiness.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining friends, this broad beans dish is sure to impress. It also works wonderfully as leftovers, making it a smart choice for meal prep.

For more inspiration on tasty vegan dishes, check out our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe or dive into the comforting flavors of our Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food.

If you’re looking for a flavorful vegan dip to complement this dish, don’t miss the Halibut Dip Recipe (veganized, of course) for a creative twist.

Enjoy this broad beans recipe as a wholesome addition to your plant-based repertoire, and happy cooking!

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