Introduction
Spiced haricot beans are a delightful dish that brings together robust flavors and satisfying textures. This recipe utilizes tender haricot beans, infused with a variety of spices and herbs that elevate the simple ingredients into a comforting meal. Perfect as a side or a main event, these beans can also be a great addition to salads or served with crusty bread.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Haricot beans – 400g
– Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
– Onion – 1 large, finely chopped
– Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
– Ground cumin – 1 teaspoon
– Smoked paprika – 1 teaspoon
– Chilli powder – ½ teaspoon
– Tomato purée – 2 tablespoons
– Vegetable stock – 500ml
– Fresh thyme – 2 sprigs
– Salt – to taste
– Pepper – to taste
Prep Time
The preparation time for spiced haricot beans is approximately 10 minutes. Quickly chop the onion and garlic, and gather the remaining ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time for this recipe is around 30 minutes, allowing the beans to absorb the flavorful spices while becoming tender. The total time from start to finish is approximately 40 minutes. This recipe yields about 4 servings, making it perfect for a family meal or leftovers to enjoy later.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beans
Begin by draining and rinsing the haricot beans thoroughly under cold running water. This helps to remove excess sodium and ensures a cleaner taste.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
In a large pan, heat a generous amount of olive oil over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm up before adding the other ingredients.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Add finely chopped garlic and diced onion to the heated oil. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and soft, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 4: Add the Spices
Stir in ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Cook the spices for 1 to 2 minutes to release their flavors, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
Step 5: Combine the Beans
Add the prepared haricot beans to the pan, mixing them well with the sautéed onions and spices. Ensure the beans are coated evenly.
Step 6: Add the Tomatoes
Pour in canned tomatoes (crushed or diced) along with a splash of water. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Step 7: Simmer the Dish
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat and cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens and the beans are heated through.
Step 8: Season to Taste
Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. If desired, add a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.
Step 9: Serve
Serve the spiced haricot beans warm, either on their own or as a side dish. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
Storage
Leftover spiced haricot beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
These beans can be frozen for up to 3 months. Portion them in freezer-safe containers or bags for easy thawing.
Serving Suggestions
These beans pair well with rice, crusty bread, or a simple green salad. They can also be used as a filling for tacos or wraps.
Customization
Feel free to customize the spices according to your taste preferences. Add some fresh herbs or other vegetables to enhance the flavor further.
Cook techniques
Simmering
Simmering is a cooking technique that involves cooking food gently in liquid at a temperature just below boiling. This method allows the flavors to meld together while preventing the ingredients from breaking apart.
Sautéing
Sautéing involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over relatively high heat. This technique is great for achieving a golden color and enhancing the flavor of the ingredients through caramelization.
Seasoning
Proper seasoning is essential in cooking. It involves adding salt, herbs, and spices to enhance the dish’s overall flavor profile. Seasoning should be adjusted throughout the cooking process to achieve a balanced taste.
Draining
Draining is the process of removing excess liquid from cooked ingredients, such as beans. This technique ensures that your dish doesn’t become watery and allows the flavors to concentrate.
Mashing
Mashing involves crushing ingredients, such as beans, to create a smooth or chunky consistency, depending on the dish’s desired texture. This technique is often used in preparing spreads or sides.
FAQ
What types of beans can I use for this recipe?
You can use various types of beans, but haricot beans are the primary recommendation for their creamy texture and ability to absorb flavors.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. It can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated when needed, allowing the flavors to deepen.
What can I serve with spiced haricot beans?
Spiced haricot beans pair well with ingredients like rice, crusty bread, or even as a topping on salads for added protein and flavor.
How can I adjust the spice levels in this dish?
To adjust the spice levels, you can add more or fewer spices according to your taste preferences. Begin with small amounts and gradually increase until you reach your desired heat.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, this dish can easily be made vegetarian or vegan by ensuring all ingredients, including any added condiments or sides, are free from animal products.
Conclusion
Enjoying spiced haricot beans is a delightful way to incorporate healthy legumes into your meals. Their rich flavor profile and versatility make them a fantastic base for various dishes. Whether used in salads, stews, or as a side dish, these beans offer a nutritious and satisfying option that can be easily tailored to suit your taste preferences.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spiced Haricot Bean Salad
Combine spiced haricot beans with fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion for a refreshing salad. Drizzle with a citrus dressing to brighten the flavors.
Creamy Haricot Bean Dip
Blend spiced haricot beans with tahini, lemon juice, and garlic for a creamy dip. Serve with pita bread or vegetable sticks for a healthy snack.
Haricot Bean Stew
Add spiced haricot beans to a hearty vegetable stew with root vegetables and greens for a comforting meal. Season with herbs and spices for extra flavor.
Haricot Bean Tacos
Use spiced haricot beans as a filling for tacos. Top with avocado, salsa, and fresh cilantro for a delicious and easy meal option.
Haricot Bean Burger
Mash spiced haricot beans and mix with breadcrumbs and spices to create tasty burgers. Grill or pan-fry and serve with your favorite toppings.