The Weekly 5: Beans from around the globe
Indian chickpea stew, Tuscan beans on toast, hash + more
I feel a bit like a broken record anytime I talk about how much I love canned beans and how they are the MVP of my “pantry” - i.e. all I get in Brooklyn is a cupboard.
But it’s true. They’re nutritious (packed with fiber, protein, and iron), very affordable (~$1/can at Trader Joe’s), and endlessly versatile. You can lean on beans in a pinch, opening a can when you quickly need to add some bulk to your lunch salad. Or transform them into a more elaborate meal, like one of the ones below.
All of this to say, if beans/legumes aren’t yet a staple for you, I hope these globally-inspired ideas will encourage you to add a few cans to your shopping cart…
1. Indian Chickpea Stew
This pared down take on chana masala - my go-to order at Indian restaurants - requires minimal effort and zero special equipment.
2. Cannellini Bean Salad
This simple Ukrainian-inspired salad is infused with the flavors of sautéed leeks and a ton of dill. (If you have unrefined sunflower oil, this is the perfect place to use it!)
3. Sweet Potato Breakfast Hash
This recipe was born after last year’s holiday season, when I had some leftover sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts after recipe testing, and threw together this hash to use them up. I loved the combo of the vegetables with black beans, cumin, and coconut yogurt so much, I decided to publish it. A great option for us savory breakfast people!
4. Tuscan Beans on Toast
Inspired by a snack we had at a Tuscan vineyard last summer on our honeymoon.
5. Lobio
This sweet-sour kidney bean stew with walnuts hails from Georgia, the country. (For context, it’s kinda like a less-runny chili.)
Planning to make one of these? Tell me how it goes in the comments section or tag me with your creation on Instagram.