Description
This hearty canned beans recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a comforting, delicious dish perfect for any day of the week. With aromatic garlic, onion, tomato paste, and a touch of cumin, every spoonful bursts with flavor. Finished with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime, this recipe is quick, healthy, and utterly satisfying—ideal as a main dish or a versatile side.
Ingredients
- 2 cans of beans (15 oz each), drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup water or vegetable broth (adjust for desired consistency)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Beans: Open the cans, drain the liquid, and rinse the beans under cold water to remove any excess sodium.
Sauté Aromatics: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent (about 3–4 minutes). Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
Add Spices: Sprinkle in the ground cumin and chili powder. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic, allowing the spices to become fragrant.
Combine Beans: Add the rinsed beans to the saucepan. Stir them into the sautéed mixture until well combined. If you prefer a slightly saucy texture, pour in the water or vegetable broth.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors meld together.
Finish and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. For an extra layer of flavor, stir in the lemon juice. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.
Notes
- Rinse the Beans: Always rinse canned beans to reduce excess sodium and improve flavor.
- Adjust the Heat: For an extra kick, feel free to add a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika.
- Make-Ahead Tip: This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
- Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish / Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing & Simmering
- Cuisine: American / International
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: ~150
- Sugar: ~3g
- Sodium: ~300mg
- Fat: ~3g
- Saturated Fat: ~0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: ~25g
- Fiber: ~7g
- Protein: ~8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: canned beans, vegan recipe, healthy comfort food, quick recipe