Are you craving a hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly quick meal? Look no further than this classic beans and franks recipe! This dish is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a delicious and satisfying experience. It's a nostalgic favorite, perfect for a weeknight dinner, a casual gathering, or even a comforting lunch. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, making it a staple in the category of quick dinner ideas. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound beef franks, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 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 cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
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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Brown the franks: Add the sliced franks to the pot and cook until lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step adds a lovely depth of flavor.
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Simmer the beans and sauce: Add the kidney beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes (undrained), beef broth, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the 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 meld together.
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Serve and enjoy: Once the beans and franks are heated through and the flavors have melded, serve immediately. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with crusty bread for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Tips for the Best Beans and Franks:
- For a smoky flavor, use smoked beef franks.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots, along with the onions.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the mixture uncovered for the last few minutes of cooking to reduce the liquid.
- For a spicier kick, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Beans and Franks: Substitute vegetarian franks for the beef franks to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly.
- Spicy Beans and Franks: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a chopped jalapeño pepper for extra heat.
- Southwestern Beans and Franks: Add a can of corn, some diced green chilies, and cumin for a Southwestern twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This homemade cooking recipe provides a healthy and delicious meal that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The best recipes are often the simplest, and this one is no exception. Enjoy this easy and flavorful beans and franks recipe! It's sure to become a new family favorite.