- Quinoa: Gluten-free, high in protein, perfect base
- Corn Kernels: Adds sweetness and texture
- Tomatoes: Cherry or diced for juicy bites
- Onions: Finely chopped for a mild sweet onion taste
- Bell Peppers: Red or yellow for color and crunch
- Garlic Cloves: Minced to boost the flavor profile
- Canned Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce: For smoky heat (optional)
- Vegan BBQ Sauce: Rich, tangy, and savory
- Vegetable Stock: Keeps the beans moist without meat
- Salt: To taste, for seasoning
- Black Pepper: Adds a slight kick and depth of flavor
- Cumin Seeds: For warm, earthy undertones
- Paprika: Smoky paprika enhances the BBQ flavor
- Brown Sugar: Sweetens the dish nicely
*Note: Ensure all ingredients are vegan to keep the recipe true.
Steps
### Vegan BBQ Beans and Grains Recipe: A Flavorful Plant-Based Delight
Vegan BBQ beans and grains offer a hearty, comforting meal that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a cookout or looking to add some variety to your weeknight dinners, this recipe will surely hit the spot! Here’s how you can create a delicious vegan BBQ beans dish packed with flavors.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried navy beans (soaked overnight)
- 2 cups quinoa
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
#### Instructions:
1. **Soak the Beans:**
- Rinse the navy beans in a colander.
- Place them in a large bowl and cover with water by about 2 inches.
- Soak overnight to soften.
2. **Cook the Quinoa:**
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water.
- In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
- Fluff with a fork once done.
3. **Prepare the Vegetables:**
- While the quinoa cooks, chop the onion, garlic, and bell peppers.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. **Sauté the Aromatics:**
- Add the chopped onions to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
5. **Add Vegetables:**
- Add the chopped bell peppers to the skillet with the vegetables. Cook for about 7-10 minutes or until softened but still crisp.
6. **Combine Beans and Seasonings:**
- Drain the soaked navy beans.
- Add the drained beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients.
7. **Simmer the Mixture:**
- Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes or until the beans are tender.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
8. **Add BBQ Sauce:**
- Once the beans have cooked through, stir in your preferred BBQ sauce. Cook for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
9. **Combine with Quinoa:**
- Transfer half of the bean mixture into a large bowl.
- Add the cooked quinoa and mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
10. **Serve and Garnish:**
- Serve hot in bowls, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
- Enjoy your vegan BBQ beans and grains!
#### Tips for Success:
- Soaking the beans overnight ensures they cook more quickly and are easier to digest.
- Use a combination of fresh and canned vegetables for extra flavor.
- Adjust spices according to taste preferences.
By following these detailed steps, you can enjoy a delicious and healthy vegan BBQ beans and grains dish that's perfect for any occasion. Perfect your recipe with various seasonings and serve it as a main course or side dish!