Unlock the Flavor of Beans with These 4 Savory Seasoning Combos
Heat Up with Chipotle Peppers and Adobo Sauce
When it comes to adding excitement to your bean dishes, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce are a game-changer. These smoked jalapeños pack a punch of heat, but a little goes a long way. Start by adding half a chipotle pepper and one teaspoon of adobo sauce to every 16-ounce can of beans. If that’s not spicy enough, add more to taste. To take it to the next level, combine with other Mexican and Tex-Mex spices like dried oregano, ground cumin, and minced garlic.
Get Down-to-Earth with Cumin, Garlic, and Citrus Juice
Cumin is the ultimate bean buddy, and for good reason. Its earthy flavor pairs perfectly with spicy garlic and bright citrus juice. Add ½ teaspoon of ground cumin and one clove of minced garlic to every 16-ounce can of beans. For bean soups, stews, and chilis, add these spices early in the cooking process. For bean salads and dips, add them without cooking. Season to taste with salt and citrus juice, adding a squeeze of lemon or lime juice to bring out the flavors.
Mellow Out with Thyme, Oregano, and Paprika
For a Creole-inspired flavor profile, try combining thyme, oregano, and paprika. This savory blend adds depth to bean soups, stews, and salads. Add ¼ teaspoon of dried thyme, ½ teaspoon of dried oregano, ½ teaspoon of paprika, and one clove of minced garlic to every 16-ounce can of beans. Use sweet, spicy, or smoked paprika to suit your taste. For cooked dishes, add the herbs and spices early in the cooking process. For bean salads and dips, substitute fresh thyme and oregano for the dried herbs.
Sweet and Sour Delights with Maple, Ketchup, and Mustard
Baked beans are a classic American favorite, and for good reason. The combination of maple syrup, ketchup, and mustard creates a sweet and sour flavor profile that’s hard to resist. To make your own sweet and sour sauce, combine ¼ cup of maple syrup, ¼ cup of ketchup, and one teaspoon of Dijon mustard. Add a sautéed onion, chopped bacon, or diced ham for added flavor. This sauce makes enough to dress two 16-ounce cans of beans. Simply combine the sauce and drained beans, cover, and bake at 325°F for 2-3 hours or simmer on the stovetop or cook in a slow-cooker.
When in a Pinch, Go for Pre-Seasoned Beans
Even the most skilled chefs need a night off sometimes. That’s where pre-seasoned beans come in. Health food stores offer a variety of seasoned beans that are ready to eat, from savory to Latin-inspired to chili beans. With a little creativity, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time.
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