Kidney Beans

Phaseolus vulgaris Legume, Bean

Kidney Beans Legume, Bean

At a Glance

  • Category Legume, Bean

The Forktionary Angle

"The hearty, protein-packed legume that forms the backbone of countless comforting and nutritious meals."

Definition

A type of common bean named for its distinctive kidney-like shape and reddish-brown color, widely used in savory dishes like chili and stews.

Chili Staple A classic and essential ingredient in traditional chili con carne.
Protein & Fiber Excellent source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber.
Toxin Removal Must be properly cooked from dried to remove phytohemagglutinin toxin.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Kidney Beans are:

Earthy Mild Nutty Starchy

Chef’s Secret

For perfect texture in chili, add canned kidney beans towards the end of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy, allowing them to heat through gently.

Best Substitutes

Pinto Beans

for similar texture and flavor in chili
Ratio 1:1

Black Beans

for soups and stews, different color/texture
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

For dried, look for uniform size and color. For canned, choose low-sodium and rinse thoroughly before use.

Recipes Using Kidney Beans

Southern United States Casseroles Beginner Cook American

Aunt Cecil's Goulash

This quick and easy Aunt Cecil's Goulash is a family favorite! A comforting, cheesy casserole ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight meal, served alongside a fresh green salad and warm crusty rolls.

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3 Steps Or Less 3 Steps Or Less Dietary Low Carb

7 Layered Salad

This vibrant 7-Layered Salad is a crowd-pleaser! A complete meal in itself, this satisfying recipe features creamy layers of deliciousness, perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or meal prep. Get ready for a flavor explosion in every bite!

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Preparation Comfort Food Easy Spicy

Fool The Meat Eaters Chili

This hearty and flavorful vegan chili is so good, it'll fool even the most dedicated meat-lover! Adapted from a family meat chili recipe, this plant-based version is packed with vegetables and spices, delivering a rich, satisfying taste. Quick to make (ready in under an hour!), it's even better the next day, cold or warm. Serve it with tortilla chips, in a wrap, or topped with your favorite dairy-free sour cream and cheese. A perfect weeknight meal for vegans and meat-eaters alike!

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60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Chili Number Of Servings

Pop Pop's Chili

This hearty chili recipe, passed down from my dad, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Perfect for game day, family gatherings, or a cozy night in, this recipe delivers rich, savory flavors with a satisfying kick. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food!

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Picnic Preparation 4 Hours Or Less Low Saturated Fat

Bean Salad Pantry Friendly Healthy

Transform your pantry staples into a vibrant and healthy bean salad! This recipe is perfect as a side dish or a light lunch, and it's designed to help you use up those extra cans and jars in your food storage. Quick, easy, and bursting with flavor – get ready to enjoy a delicious and resourceful meal!

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Main Ingredient Course Meat Main Dish

Beef And Bean Medley

A hearty and flavorful slow cooker recipe! This Beef and Three-Bean Medley is packed with three types of beans, savory ground beef, and a tangy, sweet BBQ-inspired sauce. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal. Easy to make and bursting with deliciousness!

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Meat Poultry Chili Time To Make

30 Minute Turkey Chili

Spice up your weeknight with this flavorful and FAST turkey chili recipe! Inspired by Food Network, this recipe delivers rich, hearty chili in under 40 minutes (prep time included!). Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is easily customizable to your spice preference. Get ready for a bowl of deliciousness!

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Course Preparation Chili Healthy 2

Baked Chili

Elevate your chili game with this incredible Baked Chili recipe! Inspired by a treasured magazine find, this recipe transforms classic chili into a bubbly, cheesy casserole topped with fluffy cornmeal biscuits. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even better the next day! Get ready for a hearty and satisfying meal the whole family will crave.

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Main Dish Preparation Weeknight Pork Sausage

Authentic Louisiana Red Beans And Rice

Dive into the heart of Cajun country with this authentic Louisiana Red Beans and Rice recipe! Made with love and family tradition, this recipe delivers the rich, savory flavors you crave. Slow-simmered to perfection, the tender beans are infused with smoky spices and complemented by fluffy white rice. A dash of Tabasco and a splash of cider vinegar (optional) complete this unforgettable dish. Get ready for a taste of Louisiana comfort food at its finest!

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Oven Oven Healthy Preparation

3 Bean Casserole Bourbon Beans

This award-winning 3-bean casserole recipe is a family favorite, perfect for potlucks, picnics, holidays, or a cozy weeknight dinner. Our secret? A hint of bourbon for a depth of flavor that will leave everyone wanting more! (Note: Requires 2 hours of chilling time before baking – included in total cook time.)

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4 Hours Or Less Low In Something Low Carb One Dish Meal

Best Ever American Shepherd's Pie Recipe

Experience the ultimate comfort food with this easy, elevated American Shepherd's Pie recipe! Unlike other shepherd's pies, this version boasts a rich, flavorful beef filling with a creamy touch and perfectly seasoned mashed potatoes. Perfect for chilly evenings, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready for a delicious and unforgettable meal!

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Chili Chili Meat Ground Beef

A Can Of This And A Can Of That Crock Pot Chili

This incredibly easy and flavorful crock-pot chili recipe is a crowd-pleaser! Perfect for busy weeknights or game day gatherings, this recipe uses pantry staples and requires minimal prep time. Inspired by a wedding shower gift, this nostalgic chili is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready for tender beef, zesty tomatoes, and hearty beans – all simmered to perfection in your slow cooker!

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Inexpensive Main Ingredient Preparation Comfort Food

Barnwell School Chiliburgers

This legendary recipe hails from the Barnwell School cookbook, a cherished collection of prairie town favorites! Feed a crowd with this hearty chili burger recipe – perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or impressing the neighborhood kids. This massive batch makes enough chili to fill 30 hamburger buns! Easily halved or doubled to suit your needs. Get ready for a flavor explosion from this Alberta classic!

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Course Meat Dinner Party Weeknight

Shredded Chili Beef Filling

This irresistible shredded chili beef recipe, adapted from a renowned chef's cookbook, is perfect for taco and burrito fillings! Impress your guests at your next party with this build-your-own taco bar sensation. The slow-cooked beef is incredibly tender and flavorful, and keeping it warm in a crockpot ensures everyone gets a delicious serving. Get ready for a fiesta of flavor!

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Course Weeknight Ground Beef Preparation

Beef And Bean Pot

This hearty Beef and Bean Pot recipe is a quick and easy weeknight meal, perfect for busy families! Packed with flavor from ground beef, bacon, and beans, topped with melted cheese and crunchy corn chips, it's a comforting classic that's ready in under 2 hours. A perfect last-minute throw-together dish!

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Superbowl Beef Chili Beans

Basic Spicy Chili

Spice up your life with this vibrant and flavorful vegetarian chili! Packed with beans, zesty spices, and a customizable kick of heat, this recipe is a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for a chilly evening. Easy to follow instructions and simple ingredients make this the perfect weeknight dinner. Top with your favorite sour cream and cheese for the ultimate comfort food experience.

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Time To Make Time To Make Beans Valentines Day

Barbecued Beans With Ground Beef

This crowd-pleasing Barbecued Beans with Ground Beef recipe is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or a comforting weeknight meal! Save time by prepping the bacon ahead – it’s delicious and adds amazing depth. Customize the spice level with optional jalapeños, and adjust the brown sugar for your preferred sweetness. This recipe makes a generous portion, easily feeding a crowd. Serve over rice for a complete meal! You'll love this unforgettable taste!

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Time To Make 4 Hours Or Less Chili Preparation

Beef Heart Chili

Experience the rich, savory depths of this Paleo Beef Heart Chili! Made with grass-fed beef heart for optimal nutrition, this hearty chili is perfect for a chilly evening. Customize it with your favorite vegetables like eggplant, okra, or green beans. Slow-cooked to perfection in your crockpot for maximum flavor, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a delicious, satisfying meal. Quality ingredients are key – so source the best you can find!

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