Colombian Beans Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Flavorful Dish

Colombian cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, colors, and traditions, and one of its most beloved staples is the humble bean. If you’re searching for a delicious, hearty, and vegetarian Colombian beans recipe, you’re in for a treat!

Inspired by the famous “frijoles antioqueños” from the Antioquia region, this vegetarian version captures all the comforting, smoky, and savory notes of the classic dish—without any meat. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or gatherings, these beans will warm your soul and satisfy your cravings.

Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free and packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and nutrients. Whether you serve them over rice, with arepas, or as a main course, you’ll fall in love with the rich, aromatic sauce and tender beans.

Bring a taste of Colombia to your own kitchen and discover how easy and rewarding it is to cook this traditional favorite in a vegetarian way!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Flavors: This recipe delivers the deep, smoky, and aromatic taste of Colombian beans—without animal products.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein-rich beans and vegetables, it’s a meal that truly satisfies.
• Easy to Customize: Swap in your favorite beans, add vegetables, or adjust the spice according to your taste.
• Meal Prep Friendly: These beans taste even better the next day and freeze beautifully for future meals.
• Great for All Occasions: Serve as a cozy weeknight dinner or at festive gatherings—everyone will want seconds!

Ingredients

Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board & knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Bowl (for soaking beans, if using dried)
• Ladle
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. If using dried beans, soak and cook:

   Place the dried beans in a large bowl and cover with plenty of water. Soak overnight (8-12 hours).

   Drain and rinse. In a large pot, add beans and cover with fresh water or vegetable broth.

   Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the beans are tender but not mushy. Skim any foam as needed.

2. Make the sofrito:

   While the beans cook, heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and carrot.

   Sauté for 4-5 minutes, until the onion is translucent and the vegetables have softened.

3. Add garlic and spices:

   Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

   Add the chopped tomato and cook another 3-4 minutes, until the tomatoes begin to break down and form a sauce.

4. Combine beans and vegetables:

   Add the cooked (or canned, drained) beans to the pot with the sofrito. Stir to combine.

   Add the bay leaf, diced plantain, and enough vegetable broth to just cover the beans and vegetables (about 4-5 cups, more if you prefer a soupier consistency).

5. Simmer:

   Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

   The plantain will soften and begin to thicken the sauce. If the beans get too thick, add a bit more broth or water.

6. Season and finish:

   Remove the bay leaf, then taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. If desired, use the back of a spoon to mash a few beans against the side of the pot for an even creamier texture.

   Cook uncovered for a few more minutes to thicken if necessary.

7. Serve:

   Ladle the hot beans into bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.

   Serve with rice, arepas, or avocado slices. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Bean Varieties: Pinto, cranberry, or red kidney beans all work beautifully. For a richer flavor, cook your beans from scratch rather than using canned.
• Smoky Flavor: If you want to mimic the traditional flavor of chorizo without meat, add more smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke.
• Vegetable Add-Ins: Try adding diced sweet potato, butternut squash, or corn for extra nutrition and color.
• Texture: For an ultra-creamy stew, blend a cup of the cooked beans and stir them back into the pot.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes or chopped jalapeño for heat.
• Meal Prep: This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days and freezes for up to 3 months.
• Try with Arepas: For a classic Colombian experience, serve your beans with homemade arepas. Check out this Arepas Recipe Vegetarian: Easy and Delicious Plant-Based Ideas.

“Colombian beans are even better the next day, as the flavors deepen and meld. Make a big batch for easy lunches all week!”

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition may vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.

Serving Suggestions

• With Rice: Serve your Colombian beans over a steaming bowl of fluffy white or brown rice.
• With Arepas or Cornbread: Pair with homemade vegetarian arepas or gluten-free cornbread for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
• Avocado: Top with fresh avocado slices or a squeeze of lime for brightness.
• Salad: Add a crisp green salad on the side for a balanced meal.
• As a Soup: Add extra broth and serve as a hearty soup, perfect for chilly evenings.
• Meal Bowls: Create protein-packed bowls with rice, beans, sautéed greens, and salsa.
• For Breakfast: Leftover beans make an amazing savory breakfast, topped with a fried or poached egg (if not vegan) or sautéed mushrooms.
• Party Platter: Serve in smaller bowls as part of a Colombian-inspired spread with vegetable stews and pasta salads.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a bowl of pure comfort, this vegetarian Colombian beans recipe is everything you need—and nothing you don’t! You get all the authentic flavors of Colombia’s beloved frijoles, but with a vegetarian twist that’s wholesome and easy to make.

The combination of creamy beans, sweet plantains, and an aromatic sofrito creates an unforgettable taste that’s perfect for any night of the week. Don’t be surprised if this recipe becomes a regular feature in your meal plan—it’s that good!

Remember, Colombian beans are endlessly adaptable. Feel free to add your favorite veggies, adjust the spice, or serve them with different sides.

And if you love exploring global vegetarian cuisine, check out these other delicious recipes: A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion, Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals, and Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend.

Happy cooking and buen provecho!

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