Simple Beans (Quick, Flavorful, Everyday Staple)
Simple seasoned beans in a bowl with herbs and warm natural lighting
These simple seasoned beans are quick, affordable, and full of flavor. A versatile staple that pairs with rice, tacos, or anything you need to turn into a meal.
Prep Time
5
min
Cook Time
10
min
Total Time
15
min
Servings
2
INGREDIENTS
INSTRUCTIONS
Canned pinto beans: 2 cans (drained & rinsed, reserve ½ cup bean liquid)
Olive oil or butter: 1 tablespoon
Yellow onion: 1 small, diced
Garlic: 4–6 cloves, minced
Chicken broth: ½–1 cup (plus reserved bean liquid as needed)
Old Bay: 1–2 teaspoons
Smoked paprika: 1 teaspoon
Curry powder: 1 teaspoon
Turmeric: ½ teaspoon
Cayenne pepper: Pinch
Cinnamon: Tiny pinch
Nutmeg: Tiny pinch
Soy sauce: Splash
Nando’s Mild Peri-Peri Sauce: Splash
Worcestershire sauce: Small splash
Salt: to taste
Black pepper: to taste
Greek yogurt: ¼–½ cup
Lime: ½, juiced
Cilantro (optional): Small handful, chopped
Heat the olive oil or butter in a pan over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and cook until soft and lightly golden, about 8–10 minutes.
Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Add the Old Bay, smoked paprika, curry powder, turmeric, cayenne, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir for about 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
Add the beans, reserved bean liquid, and chicken broth. Stir in a splash of soy sauce, a splash of Nando’s Mild Peri-Peri Sauce, and a small splash of Worcestershire sauce.
Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are warmed through and the flavors have come together.
Use an immersion blender (or potato masher) to blend the beans to your desired consistency. Add more chicken broth if needed to loosen them.
Remove from the heat and stir in the Greek yogurt and fresh lime juice.
Taste and adjust with additional salt, black pepper, Old Bay, or smoked paprika as needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro if using.
NOTES
Don’t skip the liquid—it helps create a light sauce.
Mash a few beans in the pan for a creamier texture.
Add onion or chili flakes for extra depth.
Works with any bean you have on hand.
Great for meal prep and reheats well.
Categories
Beans
