Vegetarian Baked Beans

Baked beans have long been a staple in various cuisines around the world, from the classic American barbecue to the English breakfast plate. Their comforting nature and hearty texture make them a favorite among families, while their versatility allows for endless variations. Today, we introduce you to a delightful twist on this classic dish: Smoky Maple Veggie Baked Beans. This recipe is not only a delicious plant-based alternative but also a wholesome option packed with flavor and nutrition.

Discover a delicious twist on a classic dish with Smoky Maple Veggie Baked Beans! Packed with rich flavors and nutritious ingredients like navy beans, onion, garlic, and a hint of maple syrup, this plant-based recipe is perfect for cozy dinners or barbecues. Learn how to prepare dried beans or use canned for a quicker option. Embrace this comforting meal that’s both easy to make and healthy, and enjoy the mouthwatering results that leave everyone asking for more.

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Ingredients

2 cups dried navy beans (or 3 cans of cooked navy beans, drained and rinsed)

1 large onion, diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 red bell pepper, diced

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 cup tomato sauce

1/2 cup maple syrup

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

2 teaspoons smoked paprika

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (vegan if desired)

1 cup vegetable broth

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Beans: If using dried navy beans, soak them overnight in a large bowl of water. Drain, rinse, and cook them in a large pot of boiling water for about 1-1.5 hours until tender. If you're using canned beans, simply rinse and set them aside.

Sauté the Veggies: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Combine the Ingredients: Add the prepared beans (cooked or canned) to the pot along with the tomato sauce, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, cumin, black pepper, salt, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Simmer the Mixture: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it cook for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This process melds the flavors and allows the beans to absorb the smoky sweetness.

Adjust Seasoning: After simmering, taste the baked beans and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, maple syrup for sweetness, or a splash of vinegar for tanginess according to your preference.

Serve: Once the beans are thickened and the flavors are well combined, remove from heat. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy your smoky maple veggie baked beans as a standalone dish or as a delicious side alongside your favorite grilled vegetables or cornbread.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 1 hr 10 min | Serves 6-8