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Vegan Black Bean Stew

This hearty vegan black bean stew is made through slow simmering, combining dried or canned black beans with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and smoky spices. The dish develops a thick, velvety texture with tender beans and a rich, smoky aroma, perfect for cozy nights or comforting meals. Its rustic appearance and deep flavors make it a satisfying plant-based option that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Latin American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup dried black beans soaked overnight
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes preferably in-season
  • 1 cup vegetable broth low-sodium recommended
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 squeeze lemon juice to brighten the stew at the end
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Sharp Knife

Method
 

  1. Drain and rinse the soaked black beans, then add them to a large pot with plenty of water. Bring to a boil and simmer for about 1 hour until tender, then drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in the same pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until they become golden and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder to the onions. Toast the spices for about 30 seconds until they release their aroma, stirring constantly.
  4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth, stirring well to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  5. Add the cooked black beans to the stew. Stir everything together, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the stew thickens and flavors meld.
  6. Check the stew for seasoning, then add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Let the stew rest for 5 minutes off the heat, allowing the flavors to meld further. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

For a creamier texture, mash a few beans with the back of your spoon before serving. The stew tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen.