Vegan Boricua

Habichuelas Guisadas

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Sofrito

Vegan Puerto Rican Habichuelas Guisadas: A Flavorful and Nutritious Staple

Habichuelas Guisadas, or stewed beans, is a cornerstone of Puerto Rican cuisine, and for good reason. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a staple in many Puerto Rican households. Here’s how you can create a vibrant and flavorful vegan version of this beloved dish.

The Cultural Significance

In Puerto Rico, beans are more than just a meal; they are a tradition. Habichuelas Guisadas are typically served over white rice, a combination that is both comforting and satisfying. This dish is often enjoyed throughout the week due to its simplicity, nutritional value, and affordability.

The Ingredients

For this vegan version, we’ll focus on using ingredients that are easily accessible and true to the traditional recipe.

For the Sofrito Base:

  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil or Annatto Oil
  • 12 cloves garlic, finely grated
  • 1 large white onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, diced
  • 1 Cubanelle pepper, seeds and ribs removed, diced
  • 5 ají dulce peppers, seeds and ribs removed
  • 1/2 cup cilantro, finely chopped
  • 7 sprigs of culantro (5 finely chopped, 2 whole)
  • 1 cup tomato sauce or puree

For the Habichuelas Guisadas:

  • 1 cup dried pink beans (or any other beans of your choice), soaked overnight and drained
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1⁄4 cup sofrito base (prepared above)
  • 1 teaspoon Adobo Seasoning Blend (see below)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 small pumpkin or butternut squash, peeled and cubed (optional but recommended for thickening the sauce)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • A splash of white vinegar (optional, to balance flavors)

Adobo Seasoning Blend:

  • 1 tbsp Kosher Salt
  • 1 tbsp Onion Powder
  • 1 tbsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 tbsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano

The Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sofrito Base

In a blender or food processor, combine the olive oil, garlic, white onion, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, Cubanelle pepper, ají dulce peppers, cilantro, and culantro. Blend until you get a smooth, slightly chunky mixture. Add the tomato sauce or puree and blend until well combined.

Step 2: Cook the Beans

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the prepared sofrito base and sauté for about 5 minutes until it starts to soften and fragrance the pot.

Step 3: Add the Beans and Spices

Add the soaked and drained pink beans, Adobo Seasoning Blend, dried oregano, and bay leaves to the pot. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Add the Pumpkin or Squash (Optional)

If using pumpkin or butternut squash, add it to the pot. This will help thicken the sauce naturally as it cooks.

Step 5: Simmer the Beans

Pour in enough water to cover the beans and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 40-50 minutes, or until the beans are tender.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a bit more water. For an extra layer of flavor, add a splash of white vinegar.

Serve the Habichuelas Guisadas over white rice, garnished with fresh cilantro or culantro if desired. You can also enjoy this dish with sides like fried plantains, sliced avocado, or a simple salad.

Tips and Variations

  • TVP, Tofu, or Tempeh: While beans are the heart of this dish, if you want to add some texture, you can include TVP (textured vegetable protein), tofu, or tempeh. However, beans remain the best option for this recipe.
  • Affordability: TVP is widely available in Puerto Rico and is a very affordable protein source, making it a great option for those looking for a budget-friendly alternative.
  • Health Benefits: The pumpkin or butternut squash not only thickens the sauce but also adds additional nutrients, making this dish a healthy and balanced meal.

Conclusion

Vegan Puerto Rican Habichuelas Guisadas is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of tradition and flavor. With its rich, aromatic sofrito base, the comforting warmth of beans, and the optional addition of pumpkin for thickening, this dish is a perfect blend of culture and nutrition. So, go ahead and cook up a pot of these stewed beans, and you’ll be treating yourself to a taste of Puerto Rico that is both vegan and authentic.

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