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Creamy Beans

Creamy Beans
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Creamy Beans is a rich and velvety comfort food made with simple pantry ingredients, offering a smooth, flavorful, and nourishing dish that can be enjoyed as a hearty side, main, or spread. This easy recipe features tender beans blended to perfection with aromatics and broth, providing a versatile, protein-packed option ideal for any skill level.

Ingredients

Scale

Beans

  • 1 cup dried navy, cannellini, or great northern beans (or 2 cups canned beans, rinsed)

Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Fats

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

Liquids

  • 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Soak the Beans: Rinse dried beans thoroughly, then soak overnight or quick-soak by boiling briefly and letting sit covered for 1 hour to soften and reduce cooking time. If using canned beans, rinse well to remove excess salt.
  2. Cook the Aromatics: Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions until translucent and soft. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to release aroma without burning.
  3. Add Beans and Broth: Drain soaked beans and add them to the pot with the aromatics. Pour in vegetable or chicken broth, bring to a gentle simmer, and cook until beans are tender and flavors meld.
  4. Blend or Mash for Creaminess: Use an immersion blender to puree about half the beans in the pot, leaving the rest whole for texture. Alternatively, transfer some beans to a blender or mash with a potato masher for desired consistency.
  5. Season and Finish: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in lemon juice or vinegar to brighten flavors. Add a drizzle of olive oil or a pat of butter for extra richness, then adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh or well-rinsed canned beans to improve flavor.
  • Proper soaking enhances digestibility and cuts down cooking time.
  • Simmer beans gently to prevent splitting and maintain shape.
  • Partial blending provides a creamy yet chunky texture.
  • Acid from lemon juice or vinegar balances richness and lifts flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy beans, bean recipe, comfort food, easy side dish, healthy beans, vegetarian, vegan option, creamy texture

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/creamy-beans/