Red Beans

Phaseolus vulgaris (Kidney Bean group) Legume

Red Beans Legume

At a Glance

  • Category Legume

The Forktionary Angle

"The Backbone of Creole Cuisine: A Culinary Journey"

Definition

Medium-sized, kidney-shaped legumes with a reddish-brown skin and creamy interior, prized for their hearty texture and ability to absorb flavors.

Protein per 1 cup (cooked) ~15g
Resistant Starch Source High (aids digestion)
Soaking Time (Dry Beans) 8-12 hours (or quick soak)

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Red Beans are:

Mild earthy slightly sweet creamy texture

Chef’s Secret

For the creamiest red beans, mash about a quarter of the cooked beans against the side of the pot with the back of a spoon. This naturally thickens the stew without adding flour.

Best Substitutes

Kidney Beans

Ratio 1:1

Pinto Beans

Ratio 1:1

Black Beans

Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Choose dry beans that are uniform in color and size, free from cracks or debris. Canned beans should have intact cans.

Recipes Using Red Beans

Main Ingredient Equipment Main Ingredient 60 Minutes Or Less

Bakehouse Rice Maker Barley Risotto

A creamy, comforting vegetarian barley risotto, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This easy recipe uses a rice cooker for effortless preparation, leaving you with more time to enjoy the delicious results. Paired beautifully with roasted vegetables like reitan roast and green beans (serving suggestions). Inspired by Dori from The Bakehouse.

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Main Ingredient Beans Cooking Mixes Preparation

Bean And Barley Soup Mix

Create hearty and delicious bean & barley soup effortlessly with this make-ahead mix! Simply combine with your favorite broth and meat (or vegetarian option!), then simmer to perfection. This versatile mix is perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend meal. Customize it with your favorite veggies for a truly personalized soup experience.

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Dietary Beginner Cook Equipment Beans

Best Ever Low Fat Mexican Soup

This incredibly flavorful, low-fat Mexican bean soup is a family favorite! Packed with hearty beans and zesty Mexican spices, it's quick, easy, and perfect for a healthy weeknight meal. Double the recipe and freeze individual portions for a grab-and-go lunch or dinner. Your kids will devour this delicious and surprisingly low-fat soup!

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Easy Main Dish 3 Steps Or Less Easy

Asian Inspired Chili

Spice up your chili game with this Asian-inspired twist! Developed over years to perfectly utilize hoisin sauce, this recipe delivers a rich, thick chili brimming with umami. Perfect for a cozy night in, it's easily adaptable to your slow cooker – simply toss everything in and cook on low for 6 hours. Prefer a thinner chili? No problem! Just add water or broth to reach your desired consistency. Get ready for a flavor adventure!

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Beginner Cook Main Dish Main Ingredient 4 Hours Or Less

Baked Bean Medley

This easy recipe, inspired by a preschool mom, delivers the comforting taste of homemade baked beans without the all-day cook time! Rich, hearty, and unbelievably flavorful, this molasses-sweetened medley is a family favorite. Serve alongside cornbread for a truly satisfying meal that kids and adults will adore. Get ready for a taste of 'baked all day' deliciousness in just 75 minutes!

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Dietary Dietary High Calcium Main Dish

Authentic Salvadorean Pupusas

Dive into the delicious world of Salvadorean cuisine with this authentic Pupusas recipe! While it requires some effort, the result is well worth it – perfectly crispy pupusas bursting with savory beans and melty cheese. This recipe is traditionally served with curtido (recipe #271297) and salsa roja (recipe #292499) for the ultimate flavor experience. Learn to make these handmade delicacies from scratch!

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Pasta Rice And Grains Main Ingredient Mexican Casseroles

Aztec Casserole

This Aztec Casserole is a hearty, high-protein one-pan wonder, perfect for busy weeknights! Made with tender beans, fluffy grains, and savory spices, this dish is easily customizable – omit the meat for a delicious vegetarian option. Prepare it ahead, freeze for later, and enjoy a satisfying and flavorful meal whenever you need it. A crowd-pleasing recipe that's both healthy and delicious!

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Comfort Food Beans One Dish Meal Equipment

Beans Sausage Crock Pot

This slow cooker recipe delivers a flavorful and satisfying meal of beans and sausage! Using two types of beans (try great northern and kidney beans!) and your choice of fresh or pre-cooked sausage, this recipe is incredibly versatile and perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. The rich flavors develop beautifully in the slow cooker, creating a tender and delicious dish the whole family will love. Easily customizable to your taste!

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Mexican Dietary Spicy Vegetables

Bean And Potato Enchiladas

Quick & Easy Bean and Potato Enchiladas! This simple recipe serves 4 (easily multiplied for a crowd). Flavorful beans and potatoes are wrapped in warm tortillas, smothered in a vibrant sauce, and baked to perfection. Top with your favorite guacamole, sour cream, or salsa for a truly satisfying and delicious Mexican-inspired meal. Ready in under an hour!

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Low Carb Low Saturated Fat 1 Day Or More Main Ingredient

The Gumbo Pages Traditional Red Beans And Rice

Craving authentic, flavorful red beans and rice? This recipe, adapted from the beloved Gumbo Pages, delivers the classic taste with a healthier makeover! We've swapped out smoked meats for flavorful turkey sausage and liquid smoke, reducing fat while maintaining that deep, smoky goodness. Learn the traditional techniques, then customize it to your family's preferences. This recipe is easily adaptable for vegetarians too (vegetarian version coming soon!). Get ready for a soul-warming, comforting meal that's both delicious and satisfying.

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Preparation Served Hot Time To Make Main Ingredient

Baked Red Beans

Tender, melt-in-your-mouth red beans simmered in a rich, savory sauce! This easy oven-baked recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or a comforting weekend brunch. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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