Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and satisfying meal that's also quick to make? Look no further! This beans curry recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and will quickly become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire. It's packed with flavor, vibrant spices, and hearty beans, making it a fantastic option for a quick dinner or a comforting meal any time. This easy recipe is perfect for beginners, yet flavorful enough to impress even experienced cooks. Get ready to discover a new favorite among your best recipes!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or naan bread, for serving
Instructions:
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Sauté 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 grated ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Bloom Spices: Add the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This process, called blooming, enhances the spices' flavors.
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Simmer the Curry: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), kidney beans, black beans, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors have melded and the sauce has slightly thickened.
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Season and Serve: Season the curry with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Serve hot over cooked rice or with naan bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips for the Best Beans Curry:
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. For a milder curry, omit it entirely, or for extra heat, add a pinch more or even a small chopped chili pepper.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like chopped bell peppers, spinach, or carrots for extra nutrients and flavor. Add them along with the tomatoes.
- Use different beans: Experiment with other beans like pinto beans, chickpeas, or cannellini beans.
- Make it creamy: For a creamier curry, stir in a dollop of coconut milk or plain yogurt at the end of cooking.
- Slow Cooker Option: This recipe can easily be adapted for a slow cooker. Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Variations:
- Lemon Beans Curry: Add the juice of half a lemon at the end of cooking for a zesty twist.
- Coconut Beans Curry: Stir in 1/2 can of full-fat coconut milk for a richer, creamier curry.
- Spiced Beans Curry: Add a teaspoon of garam masala or curry powder for a more complex flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 15-20 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 10-15 grams
This delicious and healthy beans curry is a perfect example of how easy and satisfying homemade cooking can be. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to your preferences and dietary needs, making it a great addition to your weekly meal plan. Enjoy this flavorful and easy-to-make dish, and don't hesitate to share your culinary creations with friends and family!