Are you tired of the same old red beans and rice routine? Look no further! Red beans are a staple ingredient in many cuisines, but they don’t have to be paired with rice. In fact, there are countless ways to enjoy them as the star of the show. From savory stews and soups to sweet treats and snacks, we’ve gathered 18 mouthwatering red bean recipes that will elevate your cooking game without a grain of rice in sight.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through diverse flavors and textures, from spicy and smoky to creamy and sweet. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, a snack for the kids, or a special occasion meal, these red bean recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Spicy Red Bean and Sweet Potato Stew
This hearty stew combines the comforting warmth of sweet potatoes with the spicy kick of red beans, making it a perfect meal for a chilly evening. The result is a flavorful and nutritious dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add sweet potatoes, red beans, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Red Bean Hummus with Garlic
Elevate your snacking game with this unique and delicious hummus recipe, featuring the natural sweetness of red beans and a punch of garlic flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked red beans (such as kidney or pinto)
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons water
– Optional: paprika, parsley, or other garnishes for serving
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the red beans.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the red beans, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and salt.
3. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, adding water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with paprika, parsley, or other herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Red Bean and Spinach Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this savory and satisfying vegetarian dish. Earthy portobello mushrooms are filled with a flavorful mixture of red beans, wilted spinach, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms
– 1 can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a bowl, mix together cooked spinach, red beans, cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Clean the mushroom caps, removing stems and gills. Stuff each cap with the bean-spinach mixture.
6. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Red Bean and Cornbread Casserole
This classic Southern-inspired casserole combines the comforting flavors of red beans, cornbread, and a hint of spice for a hearty and satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. Add melted butter, heavy cream, eggs, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir until just combined.
4. Pour batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Spread red beans evenly over the cornbread mixture.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Savory Red Bean and Cheese Empanadas
These flaky pastry pockets are filled with a rich and savory mixture of red beans, onions, and melted cheese, perfect for a satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
+ 1 small onion, finely chopped
+ 2 tablespoons butter
+ 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add shortening and mix until crumbly.
3. Gradually add warm water, mixing until dough forms.
4. Divide dough into 6-8 equal pieces. Roll out each piece into a thin circle.
5. Place 1/4 cup of filling mixture in the center of each circle. Fold empanada in half and press edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for golden glaze.
7. Bake empanadas for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Red Bean and Quinoa Salad with Lime Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the creamy texture of red beans, all tied together with a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup cooked red beans (such as kidney or black beans)
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Juice of 1 lime
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, red beans, and red bell pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to coat.
4. Stir in chopped cilantro.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Red Bean and Pumpkin Soup with Coconut Milk
This comforting soup combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin with the creamy richness of coconut milk, all wrapped up in a flavorful red bean broth. Perfect for a chilly day or as a nutritious meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium pumpkin, peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
2. Add the soaked red beans, water, pumpkin, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes or until the beans are tender.
3. Stir in the coconut milk and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs (optional).
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Red Bean and Avocado Toast with Chili Flakes
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this flavorful and nutritious toast recipe, combining the creaminess of avocado with the richness of red beans and a kick of chili flakes.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/4 cup cooked red beans (such as kidney or black beans)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Add the cooked red beans, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the beans and sprinkle with chili flakes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, with lemon wedges optional.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Red Bean and Zucchini Fritters
A delicious twist on traditional fritters, these sweet and crunchy bites combine the flavors of red beans and zucchini for a tasty snack or side dish. Perfect for a quick lunch or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked red beans
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine red beans, zucchini, flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, honey, and egg.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in chopped parsley.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of batter into hot oil (375°F) and fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes to fry all the fritters.
Red Bean and Tomato Bruschetta
This flavorful bruschetta combines the sweetness of red beans with the tanginess of tomatoes, all on top of toasted baguette slices. Perfect for a quick appetizer or snack, this recipe is easy to make and delicious to eat.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 baguette slices
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together red beans, tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. Spoon the bean-tomato mixture onto toasted baguette slices.
5. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and sprinkle with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Red Bean and Chickpea Burger Patties
Looking for a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional burgers? Look no further! These red bean and chickpea burger patties are packed with protein, fiber, and deliciousness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked red kidney beans
– 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup oats
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite burger toppings!
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mash the red beans using a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth.
3. Add the chickpeas, oats, breadcrumbs, olive oil, onion, garlic, and cumin to the bowl. Mix well.
4. Form into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
5. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve on a bun with your favorite toppings!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Red Bean and Butternut Squash Curry
This hearty curry combines the sweetness of red beans with the comforting warmth of roasted butternut squash, perfect for a cozy evening meal. This flavorful dish is also packed with nutritious ingredients, making it a great option for a healthy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 medium butternut squashes (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast butternut squash for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add red beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and roasted squash to the pot. Simmer for 30-40 minutes or until beans are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes
Red Bean and Kale Stir-Fry with Sesame Oil
This hearty stir-fry combines the natural sweetness of red beans with the earthy flavor of kale, all tied together with the nutty richness of sesame oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked red beans
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cooked red beans, chopped kale, salt, and pepper. Cook until the kale is wilted, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Red Bean and Corn Salsa with Fresh Cilantro
This Red Bean and Corn Salsa with Fresh Cilantro is a delicious twist on traditional salsa, perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or veggies. The combination of creamy red beans, sweet corn, and bright cilantro creates a flavorful and refreshing condiment.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked red kidney beans
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooked red beans, corn kernels, and chopped cilantro.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and stir to combine.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salsa and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep time) + 30 minutes (chill time)
Red Bean and Sweet Corn Chowder
This hearty chowder is a perfect blend of creamy beans, sweet corn, and savory spices that will warm your belly and soothe your soul. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s an ideal recipe for a cozy evening meal or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 4 ears)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in the red beans, corn kernels, and broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let chowder simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Red Bean and Bell Pepper Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the sweetness of red beans with the crunch of bell peppers. This hearty dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked red beans (canned or homemade)
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked red beans, cooked rice, parsley, olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the bean mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Red Bean and Lentil Loaf with BBQ Glaze
This hearty loaf combines the comforting flavors of red beans and lentils with a sweet and tangy BBQ glaze, perfect for a satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked red beans
– 1/2 cup cooked lentils
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup BBQ glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine red beans, lentils, breadcrumbs, olive oil, onion, garlic, and cumin. Mix well.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until lightly browned on top.
5. Meanwhile, heat the BBQ glaze in a saucepan over medium heat until warm and syrupy.
6. Remove the loaf from the oven and brush with the warmed BBQ glaze.
7. Return the loaf to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Red Bean and Chocolate Chip Cookies
Elevate your cookie game with this unique fusion of flavors, combining the natural sweetness of red beans with the richness of chocolate chips. These chewy treats are perfect for a sweet tooth craving something new.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup cooked red beans (canned or cooked from scratch)
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add cooked red beans, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add flour, baking soda, and salt; stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Summary
Get ready to experience the rich flavor of red beans in a variety of delicious recipes that don’t require rice! From hearty stews and casseroles to savory empanadas and sweet treats, this collection of 18 mouthwatering dishes has something for every occasion. Enjoy spicy and sweet potato stew, creamy hummus with garlic, stuffed portobello mushrooms, and many more innovative creations. Whether you’re looking for a comforting main course or a tasty snack, these red bean recipes are sure to impress your family and friends.