African Beans Recipe

This vibrant African Beans recipe is a quick and easy vegetarian main course or a fantastic side dish. Using canned beans (like 420g cannellini, borlotti, or black-eyed peas) cuts down prep time significantly. Savory onions, creamy coconut milk, and aromatic spices create a rich and satisfying sauce. Elevate the flavor by adding sautéed mushrooms and garlic! Best served immediately, but even better the next day after refrigerating. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or a delicious addition to your weekend spread.

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 25 mins
Calories 1400 kcal
Protein 73g
Rating Be the first
African Beans 150

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Forktionary editorial kitchen team

The Forktionary Kitchen Team

Adapted from Food.com, then tested & standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for African Beans

  • 1 (420g) can black-eyed peas
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 (13.5 oz / 400g) can full-fat coconut milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Brown Sugar
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste
  • 8 oz (225g) sliced mushrooms (optional)
  • 2 cloves minced garlic (optional)
  • fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish)
  • cooked brown or white rice (for serving)

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How to Make African Beans

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  2. Add 1 medium onion, chopped, and sauté until softened and translucent (about 5 minutes). Optionally, add 8 oz (225g) sliced mushrooms and 2 cloves minced garlic during the last 3 minutes of cooking.
  3. Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Add 1 (13.5 oz / 400g) can of full-fat coconut milk, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional), and salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Bring to a gentle simmer, then drain one (420g) can of your chosen beans (cannellini, borlotti, or black-eyed peas) and add them to the sauce.
  6. Simmer gently for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld.
  7. Serve hot over cooked brown or white rice and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley. A side salad complements the dish perfectly.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

75 g

Sugar

527g

Fat

170g

Carbs

71g

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make African Beans?

African Beans takes about 40 minutes from start to finish — roughly 15 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook.

How many calories are in African Beans?

African Beans has approximately 1400 calories per serving, with about 73 g protein, 71 g carbohydrates and 76 g fat.

What ingredients do I need for African Beans?

The key ingredients for African Beans are Dried Black Eyed Peas, Onions, Oil, Tomato Paste, Coconut Cream, Paprika. See the full list with measurements above.

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