Are you looking for a delicious and healthy meal that’s easy to prepare? Look no further than dried beans! These versatile legumes are packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients, making them a great addition to any diet. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty soup or a flavorful dip, dried beans can be used to create a wide variety of tasty recipes.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 different ways to cook with dried beans, from classic baked beans to spicy black bean soup and everything in between. We’ll also provide tips and tricks for cooking with dried beans, including how to soak them, how to season them, and more. So if you’re ready to get creative with your meals and add some extra nutrition to your diet, keep reading to discover the many flavors of dried beans!
Spicy Black Bean Soup
This hearty and spicy soup is a perfect blend of flavors, made with tender black beans, aromatic spices, and a hint of smokiness. Serve it with some crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper in a little oil until tender.
2. Add soaked black beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until beans are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect comfort food solution for a chilly day. With the ease of slow cooking, you can come home to a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless ham, diced
– 1 cup dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the diced ham, soaked navy beans, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, water, brown sugar, and ground mustard. Pour the mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Classic Homemade Baked Beans
A staple at any backyard barbecue or family gathering, classic baked beans are a comforting and flavorful side dish that’s easy to make from scratch. This recipe is a simple twist on the traditional Boston-style baked beans, using pork and beans for added depth of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 pound bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Drain and add the soaked navy beans, ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Cover the pot and bake for 6-8 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Mexican Pinto Bean Tacos
Savor the flavors of Mexico with these hearty and delicious pinto bean tacos, filled with tender beans, crispy tortillas, and a sprinkle of queso fresco.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried pinto beans, cooked
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil, for brushing
– Shredded lettuce
– Diced tomatoes
– Queso fresco, crumbled (optional)
– Sour cream, or crema (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked pinto beans, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is heated through and slightly caramelized (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Brush both sides of tortillas with vegetable oil.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning bean mixture onto warmed tortillas, followed by shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, queso fresco (if using), and sour cream (if using).
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Three-Bean Vegetarian Chili
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful vegetarian chili, packed with three types of beans and a medley of spices. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until tender.
2. Add the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, and vegetable broth.
4. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlicky White Bean Dip
This creamy and aromatic dip is perfect for snacking, entertaining, or as a side dish. With its rich flavor profile, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cannellini beans, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
4. Transfer dip to a serving bowl. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle on top.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Smoky Navy Bean and Bacon Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the rich flavors of smoky bacon, tender navy beans, and sweet onions for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook the navy beans according to package instructions or until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the same skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Combine the cooked navy beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with the cooked bacon, shredded cheese, and any remaining onions.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the creamy texture of chickpeas with the bright, zesty flavors of the Mediterranean. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for your favorite Mediterranean-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, canned or marinated in olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp. lemon juice
– 1 tsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or oregano for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, olives, artichoke hearts, and red onion.
2. Squeeze the lemon juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Top with feta cheese if desired.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or oregano.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cajun Red Beans and Rice
A classic Louisiana staple, Cajun Red Beans and Rice is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe brings together the rich flavors of Andouille sausage, bell peppers, onions, and spices in a hearty red bean stew served over creamy white rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 pound Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups cooked white rice
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the oil, onion, bell peppers, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the soaked red beans, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in enough water to cover the beans by about 2 inches. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until beans are tender.
5. Serve over cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Lentil and Bean Curry
A hearty and flavorful vegetarian curry that combines the richness of lentils and beans with aromatic spices. This recipe makes a great meal for any day, and can be easily customized to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add lentils, black beans, broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Easy Refried Beans from Scratch
Easy Refried Beans from Scratch
Refried beans are a staple in many Latin American cuisines, and making them from scratch is surprisingly easy! This recipe yields creamy, flavorful beans that are perfect for tacos, burritos, or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt, to taste
– 4 cups water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the soaked pinto beans, cumin, paprika, and salt. Stir to combine.
3. Pour in the water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 6-8 hours or overnight.
4. After 6-8 hours, mash the beans with a fork or potato masher until desired consistency is reached.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (or overnight)
Tuscan White Bean and Kale Soup
This hearty soup is a staple of Tuscan cuisine, combining the rich flavors of cannellini beans with the earthy sweetness of kale. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bunch curly kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the vegetable broth, cannellini beans, and chopped kale to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the kale is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Bean and Corn Salsa
Add a burst of flavor to your tacos, grilled meats, or veggies with this vibrant black bean and corn salsa! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of corn with the earthy taste of black beans for a deliciously fresh condiment.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine black beans, corn kernels, red bell pepper, and jalapeño pepper.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes ( prep time: 10 minutes, chill time: 5 minutes)
Moroccan Spiced Lentil Stew
Moroccan Spiced Lentil Stew Recipe
Warm up with this aromatic and comforting stew, inspired by the flavors of Morocco. This hearty dish is perfect for a chilly evening or as a healthy packed lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Southern-Style Butter Beans
A classic Southern comfort food, these butter beans are slow-cooked with onions, garlic, and a hint of smokiness to create a rich and creamy dish that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried butter beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the soaked and drained butter beans, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 1-2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
6. Stir in the unsalted butter until melted and well combined.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Indian Rajma (Kidney Bean Curry)
This popular North Indian curry is made with kidney beans, onions, garlic, and a blend of spices. Rajma is often served with basmati rice or roti (flatbread).
Ingredients:
– 1 cup kidney beans, cooked and mashed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons tomato puree
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until they are translucent.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, and garam masala. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add mashed kidney beans, tomato puree, salt, and water. Mix well.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the curry thickens.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Gigantes Plaki (Baked Giant Beans)
A classic Greek appetizer or side dish, Gigantes Plaki is a flavorful and hearty dish made with giant beans baked in a savory tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried giant beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the soaked and drained giant beans, olive oil, onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well to combine.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 1 hour, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Brazilian Feijoada (Black Bean Stew)
A hearty and flavorful stew originating from Brazil, Feijoada is a popular dish among locals and visitors alike. This recipe captures the essence of traditional Feijoada with tender black beans, savory meats, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 pound beef brisket or beef shank, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 pound pork ribs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Brown the meats in batches, then set aside.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the browned meats, beef broth, water, and soaked black beans.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 2 hours or until the beans are tender.
6. Serve hot with rice, farofa (toasted manioc flour), or crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Summary
Looking for delicious and versatile bean recipes? Look no further! This collection of 18 flavorful dried bean recipes has something for every occasion. From spicy black bean soup to classic baked beans, slow cooker stews, and hearty chili, there’s a recipe here to suit your taste buds. Whether you’re in the mood for Mediterranean flair, Mexican zing, or Indian spices, these dishes are sure to please. Plus, many of these recipes can be easily adapted to suit dietary needs and preferences. So go ahead, get creative with beans, and discover new flavors!