Are you craving a hearty, flavorful, and healthy meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This Central American Red Beans recipe is a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast. It's packed with protein and fiber, making it a fantastic choice for a healthy meal. Get ready to experience the vibrant flavors of Central America right in your kitchen! This recipe is a staple in many Central American homes and is sure to become a favorite in yours too. It's a perfect example of delicious, homemade cooking that doesn't require hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped (optional, for extra color and sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups red kidney beans, rinsed and drained (canned is perfectly fine!)
- 4 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
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 bell peppers and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
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Bloom the Spices: Add the cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This step is crucial for unlocking the full flavor of the spices.
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Simmer the Beans: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, red kidney beans, vegetable broth, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour for a richer, deeper flavor. The longer it simmers, the better the beans will absorb the flavors!
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the beans are tender, remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with lime wedges on the side. This simple dish pairs wonderfully with rice, tortillas, or crusty bread.
Cooking Tips for the Best Red Beans:
- Don't rush the simmering process: Low and slow cooking is key to developing the deep, rich flavor of these beans.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. For extra heat, add a pinch of chili powder or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve your red beans over rice, with cornbread, or alongside your favorite sides for a satisfying and complete meal.
Variations:
- Spicy Red Beans: Add a diced jalapeño pepper along with the other vegetables for an extra kick.
- Smoky Red Beans: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky depth of flavor.
- Vegetarian/Vegan: This recipe is naturally vegetarian. To make it vegan, ensure your broth is vegetable-based and avoid any animal products.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of protein and fiber, essential for a balanced and healthy diet. The exact nutritional values will vary depending on the ingredients used. However, a typical serving is expected to contain roughly:
- Calories: Around 250-300
- Protein: 10-15 grams
- Fiber: 8-10 grams
This Central American Red Beans recipe is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas and easy recipes. It's a delicious and healthy option that's perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying dish! It's sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Happy cooking!