Easy Vegetarian Black Beans Recipe
Tender black beans simmered in stock and spices! Vegetarian black beans are a delicious and easy way to add protein to tacos, side dishes, or to enjoy on their own.
How to Make the Best Easy Vegetarian Black Beans
This easy vegetarian black bean recipe is a staple for anyone looking to add more plant-based protein to their meals. These tender, flavorful beans are so simple to make, yet taste like they’ve been simmering for hours. With just a handful of pantry staples and about 40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with Mexican-inspired meals.
The magic of this recipe lies in the combination of warm spices—paprika and cumin—that infuse the beans with incredible depth of flavor. Unlike canned beans served straight from the can, simmering them in vegetable stock allows them to absorb all those aromatic spices. The result is a dish that’s so satisfying, you can enjoy the beans on their own or use them as a versatile base for tacos, burritos, or grain bowls.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need a quick side dish for dinner, these vegetarian black beans deliver big flavor without any fuss. Top them with fresh cilantro for a bright finish, and you’ve got yourself a restaurant-quality dish made right at home.
Easy Vegetarian Black Beans
Tender black beans simmered in stock and spices! Vegetarian black beans are a delicious and easy way to add protein to tacos, side dishes, or to enjoy on their own.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large colander, drain the beans and rinse with cold water.
Cooking
- In a large saucepan, combine the beans, stock, salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, and bay leaf.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat (about 5-8 minutes).
- Reduce to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes. There will be some liquid left in the pan but not much—the beans will continue to soak up liquid as they sit.
- The beans will be tender and flavorful. Optional: top with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.
Notes
- The beans will continue to soak up liquid as they cool, so don't drain all the liquid.
- Fresh cilantro adds a bright finish to the dish but is entirely optional.
- These beans work wonderfully as a side for tacos or as a filling for burritos.