If you are craving something cozy, filling, and packed with flavor without using any animal products, this Vegan Bean and “Beef” Soup Recipe is an absolute winner. Combining hearty plant-based ground “beef” with protein-rich black beans, tender onions, and warming spices, this soup delivers the rich, savory satisfaction of a classic beef stew with none of the guilt. It’s simplicity at its best, transforming humble ingredients into a deeply comforting meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Vegan Bean and “Beef” Soup Recipe comes from a handful of essential ingredients that each bring something special to the pot. From the smoky paprika adding depth, to the plant-based “beef” creating meaty texture, every component plays a crucial role in making this soup delicious and nourishing.
- Plant-based ground “beef” (1 cup): Provides a savory, chewy texture that mimics traditional ground beef perfectly.
- Black beans, drained (1 can): Adds protein and creaminess, making the soup hearty and satisfying.
- Onion, chopped (1): Builds a flavorful base with its sweet and aromatic qualities once sautéed.
- Vegetable broth (3 cups): This is the body of your soup, giving it that rich, warm consistency.
- Smoked paprika (1 tsp): Infuses the soup with a subtle smokiness that enhances the “beefy” flavor.
- Cumin (½ tsp): Adds an earthy warmth that rounds out the spices beautifully.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Used for sautéing, it brings a gentle fruitiness and helps develop caramelized onions.
How to Make Vegan Bean and “Beef” Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Plant-Based “Beef”
Start by heating the olive oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they begin to soften and turn translucent—this is where the flavor foundation is formed. Next, add the plant-based ground “beef” and cook, stirring frequently, until it browns evenly and develops that wonderful umami character, mimicking the texture of traditional beef.
Step 2: Add Beans, Broth, and Spices
Once your onions and vegan “beef” are perfectly caramelized, it’s time to add the drained black beans, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, and cumin. Stir everything together to mix the flavors. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and cover the pot. Let it cook for about 20 minutes – this allows the spices to meld and the flavor to deepen beautifully.
Step 3: Final Taste and Serve
After simmering, give your soup a taste and adjust salt or spices if needed. Each kitchen’s seasoning can vary, so this step personalizes your dish perfectly. Serve the soup hot, savoring the hearty textures and smoky, rich flavors that make this Vegan Bean and “Beef” Soup Recipe so comforting.
How to Serve Vegan Bean and “Beef” Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. For a touch of zest, a squeeze of lime juice can brighten the smoky depth wonderfully. You can also add vegan sour cream or a dollop of cashew cream for extra creaminess and indulgence.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty whole-grain bread to soak up every last spoonful. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the robust flavors by adding freshness and crunch. Roasted vegetables or cornbread are delicious additions for a heartier meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bowls to bring a cozy, homemade vibe to the table. For entertaining, consider ladling it over cooked grains like quinoa or rice to make it even more filling. You could also turn it into a chili-style potluck dish topped with avocado slices, chopped scallions, and jalapeños to suit bolder tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Vegan Bean and “Beef” Soup Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors even deepen overnight, making it a perfect next-day meal that tastes better than ever.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, freeze the soup in portioned containers for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor preservation.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave individual servings in a microwave-safe bowl, stopping to stir every minute to heat evenly without drying out the beans or plant-based “beef.”
FAQs
Can I use other types of beans for this soup?
Absolutely! While black beans work great for their creamy texture and rich flavor, you can substitute with kidney beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas depending on your preference or pantry stock.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the Vegan Bean and “Beef” Soup Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you choose a gluten-free plant-based ground “beef” and check your vegetable broth label to ensure it contains no gluten ingredients.
Can I make this soup spicier?
Definitely! Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper, some chopped jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce when cooking or serving to add a fiery kick that pairs wonderfully with the smokiness in the soup.
What brand of plant-based ground “beef” do you recommend?
There are several great options available depending on your location, but choose one that has a firm texture and is seasoned lightly so you can control the seasoning. Brands like Beyond Meat, Gardein, or Lightlife often work really well.
Can I add more vegetables to this soup?
Yes! Diced tomatoes, corn, bell peppers, or carrots are excellent additions that add more color, sweetness, and complexity. Just add them in step 2 so they soften during simmering.
Final Thoughts
This Vegan Bean and “Beef” Soup Recipe is a true delight to make and enjoy, offering an incredible balance of hearty flavors and comforting textures without any animal products. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly day and can easily become a staple in your meal rotation. I wholeheartedly encourage you to whip up this soup soon and discover just how delicious vegan comfort food can be!
Print
Vegan Bean and “Beef” Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A rich and hearty vegan soup featuring plant-based ground ‘beef’ and black beans, delivering a protein-packed and satisfying meal with smoky spices and a warm, comforting broth—all without any animal products.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup plant-based ground “beef”
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cumin
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics and Vegan Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and plant-based ground beef, cooking until the onion is softened and the vegan beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Beans, Broth, and Spices: Stir in the drained black beans, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, and cumin. Mix everything well to combine the flavors.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust salt if needed. Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or your favorite toppings.
Notes
- Add diced tomatoes or corn for extra flavor and texture.
- Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a more filling meal.
- Use low-sodium vegetable broth if controlling salt intake.
- For added heat, include a pinch of cayenne or chili powder when adding the spices.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup / Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
