Are you craving a quick, satisfying, and surprisingly delicious meal? Look no further than this elevated take on the classic beans and hot dogs! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a healthy and flavorful twist on a childhood favorite. It's the ultimate in easy recipes, perfect for beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike seeking a simple yet satisfying meal. This recipe is packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy choice for your next quick dinner. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 all-beef hot dogs, sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine the beans and broth: Add the kidney beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Simmer the beans: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This slow simmering creates a deeply flavorful and delicious base for the dish.
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Add the hot dogs: Stir in the sliced hot dogs and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. Don't overcook the hot dogs; you want them to be warmed through but still juicy.
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Serve and enjoy: Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread, cornbread, or your favorite side dish.
Tips for the Best Beans and Hot Dogs:
- Spice it up: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- Add some veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or carrots to boost the nutritional value and add more texture.
- Use different beans: Experiment with other types of beans like black beans or cannellini beans for a different flavor profile.
- Make it a hearty stew: Add 1 cup of chopped cooked potatoes or sweet potatoes for a heartier, more filling meal.
Variations:
- BBQ Beans and Hot Dogs: Substitute BBQ sauce for the chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika.
- Spicy Beans and Hot Dogs: Add a chopped jalapeño pepper along with the onion and garlic for a spicy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 20-25g
- Fiber: Approximately 10-12g
This delicious recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a surprisingly satisfying and healthy meal. It's a perfect example of delicious dishes that don't require hours in the kitchen. This easy recipe is a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal. Enjoy!