THE RECIPE JOURNAL · Main Course
Vegan Spiced Black Beans Perfect for Entertaining
These flavorful black beans are packed with warming spices that make them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Easy to prepare and perfect for sharing, they bring a delicious plant-based twist to your next party or dinner.
FROM THE KITCHEN • Vegan Spiced Black Beans Perfect for Entertaining
01 THE RECIPE
Let's make it.
Follow these steps for a delicious result. Tick off each step as you go.
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01
Step 1
Start by heating some oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Toss in the onions and cook them until they turn soft and translucent, which usually takes about 5 minutes. Next, add the black beans along with enough water to cover them by a few inches. Stir in the tomato paste, garlic, dried onion, mustard seeds, chile pods, cinnamon sticks, cardamom, cumin seeds, oregano, brown sugar, and epazote. Give everything a good mix and bring it up to a boil.
02
Step 2
Once boiling, lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently. Check in occasionally and give it a stir to keep things from sticking. You’ll want to cook the beans until they’re nice and tender—it should take around 3 and a half to 4 hours.
03
Step 3
After the beans are soft, take the lid off and turn the heat up to high. Let it boil, stirring often and mashing some beans as you go to help thicken the sauce. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, and cook until the sauce has thickened to your liking—about 30 minutes. Finally, taste and season with salt to bring all those flavors together.
Why you’ll love it
These beans are full of warm spices that bring out rich, deep flavors. They are hearty and satisfying, making them a great choice for guests. Plus, they are completely plant-based, so everyone can enjoy them.
How to serve
Serve these beans over fluffy rice or alongside warm tortillas. They also pair well with fresh avocado, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a bright finish. Add a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage & leftovers
Let the beans cool completely before storing. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. They also freeze well for up to 3 months—just thaw and reheat gently.
