Are you looking for a hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly easy vegetarian meal? Look no further! This Calico Beans recipe is a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. It's packed with vibrant colors, incredible textures, and a taste that will keep you coming back for more. This simple recipe is a great example of how homemade cooking can create delicious dishes without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and bell peppers and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
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Combine the ingredients: Add the kidney beans, pinto beans, corn, diced tomatoes and green chilies, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot. Stir well to combine.
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Simmer the beans: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 15 minutes, or longer for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld. This is a great example of how simple ingredients can create a delicious dish with just a little patience.
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Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as rice, cornbread, or a simple green salad.
Tips for the Best Calico Beans:
- Don't be afraid to adjust the spices: This recipe is easily customizable. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. Feel free to experiment with other spices as well, such as a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of Worcestershire sauce.
- For a thicker stew: If you prefer a thicker consistency, simmer the beans uncovered for the last 10 minutes of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
- Make it ahead: Calico beans taste even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week. This makes it a perfect recipe for meal prepping.
- Add some protein: For a heartier meal, add 1 cup of cooked quinoa or brown rice during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Spicy Calico Beans: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- Vegetarian Calico Beans with Sausage: Add 1 cup of your favorite vegetarian sausage to the pot along with the vegetables.
- Black Bean Calico Beans: Substitute black beans for one of the bean types.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Protein: Approximately 10g
- Fiber: Approximately 10g
This Calico Beans recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals made easy. It's a quick dinner idea that's perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a casual get-together. Enjoy this delicious and versatile dish!