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A Great Guide to Cooking Tasty Beans and Legumes

Beans and legumes are such a great part of cooking and make really earthy flavoured dishes. There are some wonderful and classic ways to cook beans that are enjoyed all over the world. Here are some of our expertly chosen recipes that are inspiring to cook. Enjoy some tasty and healthy food!

Different types of beans and legumes

Black beans

Black beans are a popular ingredient in Mexican and Latin American cuisine. They are rich in protein and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to any meal. To cook black beans, sort and rinse them, then soak them overnight. Drain the water and add fresh water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Black beans can be used in soups, stews, salads, and as a filling for tacos and burritos.

Chickpeas

Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are a staple in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. They are a good source of protein, fiber, and iron. To cook chickpeas, sort and rinse them, then soak them overnight. Drain the water and add fresh water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Chickpeas can be used in hummus, falafel, salads, and curries.

Lentils

Lentils are a type of legume that comes in many different colors, including green, brown, and red. They are a good source of protein, fiber, and iron. To cook lentils, sort and rinse them, then add them to a pot with water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Lentils can be used in soups, stews, salads, and as a filling for wraps and sandwiches.

Kidney beans

Kidney beans are a popular ingredient in chili and other Tex-Mex dishes. They are rich in protein and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to any meal. To cook kidney beans, sort and rinse them, then soak them overnight. Drain the water and add fresh water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Kidney beans can be used in chili, salads, and as a filling for tacos and burritos.

Lima beans

Lima beans, also known as butter beans, are a creamy and delicious type of bean. They are a good source of protein and fiber. To cook lima beans, sort and rinse them, then soak them overnight. Drain the water and add fresh water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Lima beans can be used in soups, stews, and casseroles.

Recipes to cook beans and legumes

Black bean soup

Ingredients:

- 2 cups black beans, soaked overnight

- 1 onion, chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 red bell pepper, chopped

- 1 tablespoon cumin

- 1 tablespoon chili powder

- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

- Salt and pepper, to taste

- Sour cream, for topping

- Cilantro, for garnish

Instructions :

 1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until softened.

2. Add the cumin and chili powder and cook for 1-2 minutes.

3. Add the soaked black beans and broth to the pot.

4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the beans are tender.

5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.

6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream and cilantro for garnish.

Chickpea salad

Ingredients:

- 2 cups cooked chickpeas

- 1 cucumber, chopped

- 1 tomato, chopped

- 1 red onion, chopped

- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped

- Juice of 1 lemon

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, cucumber, tomato, red onion, parsley, and mint.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Lentil curry

Ingredients:

- 2 cups cooked lentils - 1 onion, chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon curry powder - 1/2 teaspoon cumin - 1/2 teaspoon turmeric - 1 can diced tomatoes - 1 can coconut milk - Salt and pepper, to taste - Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.

2. Add the curry powder, cumin, and turmeric and cook for 1-2 minutes.

3. Add the diced tomatoes and coconut milk to the pot.

4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

5. Add the cooked lentils to the pot and simmer for another 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.

6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serve hot with fresh cilantro for garnish.

Kidney bean chili

Ingredients:

- 2 cups cooked kidney beans

- 1 onion, chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 red bell pepper, chopped

- 1 green bell pepper, chopped

- 1 tablespoon chili powder

- 1 teaspoon cumin

- 1 can diced tomatoes

- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth

- Salt and pepper, to taste

- Shredded cheddar cheese, for topping

- Sour cream, for topping

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and bell peppers until softened. 2. Add the chili powder and cumin and cook for 1-2 minutes. 3. Add the diced tomatoes, broth, and kidney beans to the pot. 4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until the chili is thick and bubbly. 5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 6. Serve hot with shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream for topping.

Lima bean casserole

Ingredients:

- 2 cups cooked lima beans - 1 onion, chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 red bell pepper, chopped - 1 green bell pepper, chopped - 1 can diced tomatoes - 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.

2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, and bell peppers until softened.

3. Add the diced tomatoes, broth, and lima beans to the skillet.

4. Transfer the mixture to a 9x13 baking dish.

5. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.

6. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the lima bean mixture.

7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.

In conclusion, cooking with beans and legumes is easy, delicious, and nutritious. There are many different types of beans and legumes to choose from, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Whether you prefer soups, salads, stews, or casseroles, there is a bean or legume recipe out there for you. So go ahead and experiment with different ingredients and flavors, and enjoy some tasty and healthy food!

Healthy Beans and Legumes Meal Ideas
Garlicky Green Beans

Garlicky Green Beans requires around 25 minutes from start to finish. One portion of this dish contains about 2g of protein, 6g of fat, and a total of 75 calories. For 33 cents per serving, you get a side dish that serves 6. Head to the store and pick up water, green beans, pepper, and a few other things to make it today. 1 person has tried and liked this recipe. It is a good option if you're following a gluten free, lacto ovo vegetarian, and primal diet. It is brought to you by Taste of Home. With a spoonacular score of 0%, this dish is very bad (but still fixable). Try Black Beans & Brown Rice With Garlicky Kale, Flank Steak With Garlicky Mediterranean Salad, and Garlicky Carrot Spread for similar recipes.

Barbecue Butter Beans

Barbecue Butter Beans is a gluten free and dairy free recipe with 6 servings. One serving contains 392 calories, 9g of protein, and 5g of fat. For 74 cents per serving, this recipe covers 9% of your daily requirements of vitamins and minerals. Only a few people really liked this Barbecue dish. 1 person were glad they tried this recipe. If you have ketchup, onion, brown sugar, and a few other ingredients on hand, you can make it. It will be a hit at your Father's Day event. It is brought to you by Taste of Home. It works best as a side dish, and is done in around 1 hour and 40 minutes. All things considered, we decided this recipe deserves a spoonacular score of 36%. This score is not so great. Similar recipes include Smokin' Willy Barbecue Baked Beans, Asian Barbecue Chicken Lettuce Wraps, and Barbecue Pork Buns – Dim Sum.

Hearty Chicken and Beans

Hearty Chicken and Beans takes approximately 30 minutes from beginning to end. This main course has 1205 calories, 67g of protein, and 61g of fat per serving. This gluten free and dairy free recipe serves 8 and costs $1.25 per serving. A mixture of rice, chili beans, brown sugar, and a handful of other ingredients are all it takes to make this recipe so delicious. This recipe from Taste of Home has 1 fans. Taking all factors into account, this recipe earns a spoonacular score of 54%, which is good. Similar recipes include Hearty Chili With Beans, Hearty Chicken & Grilled Corn Soup, and Hearty Chicken Tortilla Soup.

Smoky Garlic and Spice Chicken

Smoky Garlic and Spice Chicken requires about 1 hour and 20 minutes from start to finish. This main course has 412 calories, 33g of protein, and 29g of fat per serving. This gluten free, dairy free, and ketogenic recipe serves 4 and costs $1.68 per serving. 1 person found this recipe to be flavorful and satisfying. This recipe from Taste of Home requires olive oil, oregano, ground cumin, and paprika. All things considered, we decided this recipe deserves a spoonacular score of 49%. This score is solid. Similar recipes are Smoky Chicken Tacos, Smoky roasted tomato and red pepper soup, and Smoky Sweet Vidalian Onions and Beans.

Maple Baked Beans

You can never have too many side dish recipes, so give Maple Baked Beans a try. This recipe serves 12 and costs 95 cents per serving. Watching your figure? This gluten free and dairy free recipe has 243 calories, 10g of protein, and 2g of fat per serving. This recipe is liked by 1 foodies and cooks. From preparation to the plate, this recipe takes approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes. It is brought to you by Taste of Home. A mixture of barbecue sauce, cider vinegar, maple-flavored syrup, and a handful of other ingredients are all it takes to make this recipe so tasty. With a spoonacular score of 52%, this dish is good. Try Smokin' Willy Barbecue Baked Beans, Smoky Baked Beans, and The Best Baked Beans for similar recipes.

Pasta and Peppers

Pastan and Peppers might be a good recipe to expand your hor d'oeuvre repertoire. This recipe makes 6 servings with 249 calories, 8g of protein, and 3g of fat each. For 62 cents per serving, this recipe covers 12% of your daily requirements of vitamins and minerals. 15 people have tried and liked this recipe. From preparation to the plate, this recipe takes approximately 25 minutes. It is brought to you by Taste of Home. Head to the store and pick up salt, cornstarch, basil, and a few other things to make it today. With a spoonacular score of 56%, this dish is solid. Users who liked this recipe also liked Pastan e Fagioli (Pastan and Beans), Baked Olives and Peppers, and Beet Salad With Peppers and Lettuce.

Garlicky Holy Guacamole

If you have roughly 10 minutes to spend in the kitchen, Garlicky Holy Guacamole might be an awesome gluten free, dairy free, lacto ovo vegetarian, and vegan recipe to try. This recipe serves 4. For $1.14 per serving, this recipe covers 12% of your daily requirements of vitamins and minerals. One portion of this dish contains about 4g of protein, 21g of fat, and a total of 303 calories. If you have jalapeno, corn tortilla chips, juice of lemon, and a few other ingredients on hand, you can make it. It works well as a Mexican hor d'oeuvre. 21 person were impressed by this recipe. It is brought to you by Foodnetwork. Overall, this recipe earns a solid spoonacular score of 61%. If you like this recipe, take a look at these similar recipes: Black Beans & Brown Rice With Garlicky Kale, Flank Steak With Garlicky Mediterranean Salad, and Garlicky Carrot Spread.

Zesty Colorado Chili

Zesty Colorado Chili is a gluten free and dairy free recipe with 14 servings. One serving contains 426 calories, 28g of protein, and 25g of fat. For $1.56 per serving, this recipe covers 23% of your daily requirements of vitamins and minerals. This recipe from Taste of Home has 1 fans. It works well as a rather cheap main course. If you have jalapeno pepper, kidney beans, garlic, and a few other ingredients on hand, you can make it. The Super Bowl will be even more special with this recipe. Not a lot of people really liked this American dish. From preparation to the plate, this recipe takes roughly 1 hour and 55 minutes. With a spoonacular score of 58%, this dish is solid. Users who liked this recipe also liked Zesty Lime Marinated Chicken with Homemade Watermelon Salsa, Zesty Spinach Salad, and Zesty Green Pean and Jalapeño Pesto Pasta.

Fiesta Chicken and Black Beans

Need a gluten free and dairy free main course? Fiesta Chicken and Black Beans could be a great recipe to try. This recipe makes 4 servings with 454 calories, 42g of protein, and 17g of fat each. For $1.99 per serving, this recipe covers 29% of your daily requirements of vitamins and minerals. 1 person has made this recipe and would make it again. It is brought to you by Taste of Home. If you have corn kernels, avocado, cilantro, and a few other ingredients on hand, you can make it. From preparation to the plate, this recipe takes roughly 30 minutes. All things considered, we decided this recipe deserves a spoonacular score of 78%. This score is solid. Similar recipes are Mexican Fiesta Salad Pizza, Fiesta Rice Salad with Honey Lime Dressing, and Salsa Chicken & Black Beans.

Yogurty Tofu Barley Simmer

You can never have too many side dish recipes, so give Yogurty Tofu Barley Simmer a try. Watching your figure? This lacto ovo vegetarian recipe has 229 calories, 12g of protein, and 6g of fat per serving. This recipe serves 6. For 94 cents per serving, this recipe covers 11% of your daily requirements of vitamins and minerals. 1 person were glad they tried this recipe. This recipe from Allrecipes requires water, oregano, flour, and olive oil. From preparation to the plate, this recipe takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Taking all factors into account, this recipe earns a spoonacular score of 56%, which is good. Barley salad with vegetables, Black Beans & Green Peas With Rice & Barley, and Black-Eye Pean And Barley Salad are very similar to this recipe.

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