We’ve always been fans of Calico Beans for their hearty mix of flavors and textures, and we’re excited to share our vegetarian version that keeps all the charm without the meat. This classic American dish, often a staple at potlucks, swaps in plant-based ingredients for a wholesome twist that’s just as satisfying.
Picture a colorful blend of beans simmered to perfection, creating a comforting meal we know you’ll crave. Whether you’re hosting friends or prepping for the week, our Calico Beans recipe brings bold taste and ease to your table.
Ingredients
In our vegetarian Calico Beans recipe, we focus on a vibrant mix of plant-based ingredients that deliver hearty flavors and textures. These essentials are listed in the order we use them, with prep specifics noted for accuracy and ease.
- Beans (base): 2 cans (15 oz each) of kidney beans, drained and rinsed to remove excess sodium
- Beans (additional variety): 1 can (15 oz) of black beans, drained and rinsed for a rich, earthy contrast
- Beans (final type): 1 can (15 oz) of pinto beans, drained and rinsed to add creaminess
- 1 large onion, diced finely to enhance the base flavor profile
- 2 cloves garlic, minced for a fresh, aromatic boost
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or green), chopped into 1/2-inch pieces for color and crunch
- 1 cup tomato sauce, unsweetened to keep the dish balanced
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (choose a vegetarian option without animal-derived ingredients)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed to provide natural sweetness without overpowering
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard for a tangy kick
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjusted to taste based on other seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground for added depth
This selection ensures our Calico Beans simmer into a satisfying, nutrient-packed dish perfect for gatherings.
Required Equipment
Before we dive into preparing our flavorful Vegetarian Calico Beans, let’s gather the essential tools that make the process smooth and efficient. These items help us handle the chopping, mixing, and simmering of our hearty bean dish with ease.
We recommend the following equipment to ensure accuracy and safety:
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven: A 4- to 6-quart size works best for simmering the beans and vegetables together, allowing even heat distribution for that perfect, tender texture.
- Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife: Use a sturdy board and sharp knife to chop onions, garlic, and bell peppers quickly and precisely, minimizing prep time.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients like brown sugar, tomato sauce, and spices, ensuring our Calico Beans achieve the ideal balance of sweet and savory flavors.
- Can Opener: Handy for opening cans of kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans if they’re not pop-top varieties, keeping our plant-based setup straightforward.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Perfect for stirring the mixture without scratching the pot, helping us blend flavors as the dish simmers to a rich, aromatic finish.
With these tools in hand, we’re all set to transition seamlessly from our ingredient list to the cooking steps, creating a delicious, nutrient-packed Vegetarian Calico Beans recipe that impresses every time.
Instructions
We love how this Vegetarian Calico Beans recipe transforms simple ingredients into a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for gatherings. Let’s dive into the steps to create a colorful mix of beans that simmers and bakes to tender perfection.
Prep the Ingredients
First, we gather and prepare our key components to ensure everything is ready for cooking. Start by draining and rinsing the canned beans—one 15-ounce can each of kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans—to remove excess sodium and achieve that fresh, clean taste.
- Dice one medium onion and one bell pepper into ½-inch pieces for even cooking and a satisfying crunch.
- Mince two cloves of garlic finely to release their aromatic essence.
- In a small bowl, combine ½ cup tomato sauce, ¼ cup barbecue sauce, ¼ cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons yellow mustard, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper to form a tangy, sweet base that will coat the beans beautifully.
This preparation sets the stage for a dish bursting with vibrant colors and robust flavors.
Cook the Beans
We move to the stovetop to build layers of flavor in our Vegetarian Calico Beans. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until it shimmers, then add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing for 5 minutes until they soften and release a sweet, fragrant aroma.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until it turns golden and infuses the mixture with its pungent warmth.
- Add the drained beans along with the prepared sauce mixture, stirring thoroughly to combine. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes. The beans will absorb the flavors, developing a rich, hearty texture that’s irresistibly tender yet slightly firm.
Throughout this step, we aim for a balanced blend where the beans’ earthy notes mingle with the sauce’s smoky sweetness.
Assemble and Bake
With the beans cooked, we assemble and bake for that final, mouthwatering finish. Transfer the bean mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure every bite is packed with goodness.
- Sprinkle an additional 2 tablespoons of brown sugar on top for a caramelized crust, then cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the top bubbles and develops a golden-brown edge, releasing an inviting, savory scent that fills the kitchen.
This process locks in the dish’s vibrant flavors and textures, making our Vegetarian Calico Beans a crowd-pleasing favorite.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the best features of our Vegetarian Calico Beans is how easily they lend themselves to make-ahead preparation, allowing us to save time while preserving that hearty, flavorful appeal perfect for potlucks or busy weeknights. By planning ahead, we ensure the beans’ vibrant colors and rich textures remain intact, making this dish even more convenient without sacrificing taste.
Preparing the Dish in Advance
To get a head start, we recommend assembling and cooking the beans up to two days before serving. Follow the steps from our instructions section, but stop after the simmering phase—before baking. This keeps the flavors melding without overcooking.
- Step 1: After simmering the beans and sauce mixture in the pot, let the dish cool completely to room temperature. This prevents condensation, which could make the beans soggy.
- Step 2: Transfer the cooled mixture to an airtight container. For optimal freshness, divide it into portions using freezer-safe bags or containers if you plan to store it longer.
- Step 3: Label the container with the date and contents, such as “Vegetarian Calico Beans – Ready to Bake.”
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage is key to maintaining the dish’s nutrient-packed profile and appealing simmered flavors. We suggest the following options based on how far ahead you’re preparing:
| Storage Method | Duration | Best Practices |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3 days | Store in a glass or plastic container with a tight lid to retain moisture and prevent odor absorption from other foods. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and leave some headspace for expansion to avoid bursting. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. |
Reheating and Finishing
When it’s time to enjoy our Calico Beans, reheating is straightforward and helps restore that caramelized crust we love.
- Step 1: If refrigerated, transfer the beans to a baking dish and let them sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes to reduce chilling time.
- Step 2: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Add any additional toppings like brown sugar as outlined in the original instructions.
- Step 3: Bake for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. For a crispier top, broil for the last 2–3 minutes.
- Final Tip: Taste and adjust seasonings after reheating, as flavors may mellow during storage. This simple process keeps the dish’s colorful blend of beans vibrant and ready to impress.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this vegetarian twist on Calico Beans, proving it’s just as hearty and flavorful as the original. It’s a versatile dish that brings people together at any gathering or simplifies your meal prep routine.
By swapping in plant-based ingredients, we’ve created something nutritious and delicious that’s easy to customize. Give it a try and make it your go-to favorite—we’re confident it’ll become a staple in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Vegetarian Calico Beans?
Vegetarian Calico Beans is a hearty, plant-based twist on a classic American dish, featuring a colorful mix of beans like kidney, black, and pinto beans simmered in a tangy sauce. It’s perfect for potlucks, gatherings, or meal prep, offering rich flavors and textures without meat, making it a nutritious and crowd-pleasing option.
What are the key ingredients for Vegetarian Calico Beans?
The main ingredients include kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, diced onion, minced garlic, chopped bell pepper, tomato sauce, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, yellow mustard, salt, and black pepper. These plant-based components create a flavorful, nutrient-packed dish that’s easy to prepare and full of color and taste.
What equipment do I need to make Vegetarian Calico Beans?
You’ll need a large pot or Dutch oven for simmering, a cutting board and chef’s knife for chopping, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a can opener for beans, and a wooden spoon or spatula for stirring. These basic tools ensure even cooking and help you prepare the dish efficiently.
How do I prepare Vegetarian Calico Beans?
Start by draining and rinsing the beans, then dice onions and bell peppers, and mince garlic. Mix a sauce with tomato sauce, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper. Sauté the veggies, add garlic, beans, and sauce, simmer until flavors blend, transfer to a baking dish, top with brown sugar, and bake for a caramelized finish.
Can I make Vegetarian Calico Beans ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it up to two days in advance. Cook the mixture, let it cool, and store in an airtight container in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze it. When ready, reheat on the stove or oven, stirring occasionally, and adjust seasonings to refresh the flavors.
How should I store Vegetarian Calico Beans leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months to maintain freshness. Reheat in a pot on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed, to restore the dish’s texture and taste without losing nutrients.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this Vegetarian Calico Beans recipe is fully vegan since it uses only plant-based ingredients like beans, veggies, and sauces without any animal products. It’s a great option for vegan diets, providing protein and fiber while being delicious and versatile for various occasions.