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Vegan Black Bean Stew

This hearty vegan black bean stew features tender, velvety beans simmered with aromatic onions, garlic, and smoked paprika. The dish develops a rich, comforting texture with a deep flavor, finished with fresh herbs and bright citrus accents for a nourishing and satisfying meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup dried black beans preferably soaked overnight
  • 1 large yellow onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 can chopped tomatoes 14 oz can
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lime lime for juice
  • a handful fresh cilantro chopped, for garnish
  • salt to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Drain and rinse the soaked black beans, then set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering and fragrant.
  3. Add chopped onion to the pot and sauté until it turns soft, translucent, and begins to caramelize around the edges, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally and listen for a gentle sizzle.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and smoked paprika, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant, filling the kitchen with a warm aroma.
  5. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot, stirring well to combine, and let them cook down for about 5 minutes until they start to break apart and release their juices.
  6. Pour in the vegetable broth along with the drained black beans, stirring everything together.
  7. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the stew cook gently for about 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and the flavors meld into a thick, velvety mixture.
  8. Taste the stew and add salt as needed. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top for brightness, then stir to combine.
  9. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot, perhaps with crusty bread or rice on the side for a complete meal.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a pinch of cumin or chopped greens during the last 10 minutes of simmering. Leftovers taste even better the next day, as flavors deepen.