As a professional writer and food enthusiast, I am always excited to share my favorite recipes with others. Today, I want to introduce you to one of my favorite ingredients – cranberry beans. These vibrant and flavorful beans are a staple in many Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, and they are incredibly versatile. Here, I will share some of my favorite cranberry bean recipes that are both delicious and nutritious.
Recipes Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Recipe Category: Main dish
- Recipe Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Aggregate Rating: 4.8/5
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried cranberry beans
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Soak the cranberry beans in water overnight.
- Drain and rinse the beans, and set them aside.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion, garlic, celery, and carrot, and cook until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add the tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf, and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the vegetable broth, water, and beans to the pot, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer until the beans are tender, about 45-50 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Total Fat | 5g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 40g |
| Dietary Fiber | 12g |
| Protein | 12g |
FAQ
- Q: Can I use canned cranberry beans instead of dried ones?
- A: Yes, you can. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before using.
- Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
- A: Yes, you can. Just let the beans cool down completely before transferring them to an airtight container and freezing.
- Q: Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
- A: Yes, you can. Just keep in mind that it will change the flavor profile of the dish.
Recipes Tips
If you’re looking to add more plant-based protein to your diet, cranberry beans are a great option. They are also high in fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied. Here are some tips to help you make the most of this delicious ingredient:
1. Experiment with different spices and seasonings: Cranberry beans have a mild flavor that pairs well with a variety of herbs and spices. Try adding cumin, coriander, or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, or fresh parsley or cilantro for a bright, fresh taste.
2. Use them in salads and soups: Cranberry beans are a great addition to salads and soups. They add flavor, texture, and nutrition to any dish.
3. Make a vegetarian chili: Cranberry beans are a great substitute for meat in chili. Just add them to your favorite chili recipe for a hearty and filling meal.