Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a hearty and wholesome dish? Look no further than this One Pot Red Kidney Beans recipe! Packed with vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also a delightful crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cleanup, you'll wonder why you haven't tried this comforting meal sooner. Dive into the rich, savory goodness of red kidney beans, and discover how simple it is to create a satisfying dinner that warms the soul!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup red kidney beans, soaked overnight
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Drain and rinse the kidney beans that have been soaked overnight, ensuring they are clean and ready for cooking.
- Heat a large one-pot Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Sauté the chopped onions until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and chopped bell pepper, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until the vegetables become fragrant.
- Sprinkle cumin over the vegetables, stirring to distribute the spice evenly and release its aromatic qualities.
- Add the soaked kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer for approximately 25-30 minutes.
- Check beans periodically for tenderness. They should be soft but not mushy when fully cooked.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Remove from heat and let the beans rest for 5 minutes to absorb remaining liquid.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Serve hot as a main dish or side.
Tips
- Soak Your Beans: For the best texture and flavor, soak your red kidney beans overnight. This not only reduces cooking time but also helps to soften the beans, ensuring they cook evenly.
- Sauté for Flavor: Don’t rush the sautéing process! Allow the onions to become translucent and slightly golden before adding the garlic and bell pepper. This caramelization adds depth to the dish.
- Spice It Up: Feel free to experiment with spices! Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne can give your beans a delightful kick.
- Check for Tenderness: As the beans simmer, taste them periodically to check for doneness. They should be tender but still hold their shape—perfect for that one-pot texture.
- Rest Before Serving: After cooking, let the beans rest for about 5 minutes. This allows them to absorb any remaining liquid and enhances the flavors.
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of freshness that elevates the dish. Don't skip this step!
- Versatile Serving: Enjoy your One Pot Red Kidney Beans as a main dish or serve them as a hearty side alongside grilled meats or rice. They also make a fantastic filling for tacos!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
