Blue Runner red beans recipe is a flavorful and hearty dish, often enjoyed as a side or main meal. Known for its rich, savory taste, it uses Blue Runner red beans, a popular ingredient in Southern cooking. This simple yet delicious recipe combines beans with spices to create a comforting meal for any occasion. It’s perfect for pairing with rice or enjoying as a standalone dish.
This recipe is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. The beans are rich in protein and fiber, making it a healthy option for anyone looking to add more plant-based meals to their diet. The Blue Runner red beans recipe is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Blue Runner Red Beans Recipe
This Blue Runner red beans recipe is simple and quick, making it perfect for busy days. With minimal prep time, you can enjoy a wholesome meal in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for families and individuals on the go.
The combination of Blue Runner red beans with savory spices creates a rich, delicious taste. Every bite offers a satisfying balance of flavors, making it a favorite among those who love hearty, comforting meals.
Loaded with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, this Blue Runner red beans recipe supports a healthy diet. It’s perfect for boosting your energy levels and keeping you full longer, all while maintaining a balanced lifestyle.
This recipe can be easily customized to your taste. Whether you prefer it spicy, mild, or with added vegetables, you can adjust it to suit your preferences, ensuring it’s always a perfect match for your cravings.
Ingredient Notes for a Blue Runner Red Beans Recipe
Red Beans: Red beans are the main ingredient in this dish. They provide protein and fiber, making them a healthy and hearty choice.
Onion: The onion adds a mild sweetness and depth of flavor. It forms the base of the dish and enhances the overall taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a fragrant and bold flavor to the beans. It adds a savory note that perfectly complements the other ingredients.
Bell Pepper: Bell peppers contribute a crisp texture and a subtle sweetness. They balance the spices and add color to the dish.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is used for sautéing the vegetables, providing a rich and smooth base for the beans.
Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a smoky and slightly spicy flavor, bringing warmth and depth to the dish.
Ground Cumin: Cumin gives the dish an earthy and warm flavor, enhancing the overall spice profile.
Dried Thyme: Dried thyme adds a savory, herby taste that pairs well with the other spices in the recipe.
Bay Leaf: The bay leaf adds a subtle, aromatic flavor that helps deepen the taste of the beans.
Chicken Broth: Chicken broth is used to cook the beans, providing a savory liquid base that adds richness to the dish.
Salt and Pepper: Salt and pepper are essential to bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients and balance the seasonings.
Fresh Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness to the dish. It also enhances the flavor with a hint of herbal brightness.
Cooked Rice: The beans are served over cooked rice, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
Pre-preparation of Blue Runner Red Beans Recipe
Before you start cooking, there are a few pre-preparation steps to ensure the recipe turns out perfectly. Begin by opening the cans of Blue Runner Red Beans and draining them. This helps remove any excess liquid, making the beans ready for cooking.
Next, chop your vegetables. Finely dice one onion, chop two garlic cloves, and slice your bell pepper if you’re using one. These ingredients will form the base of the dish’s flavor profile, so take your time to chop them evenly.
How to Make Blue Runner Red Beans Recipe
Ingredients
For this Blue Runner Red Beans recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
· 2 cans of Blue Runner Red Beans
· 1 medium onion, finely diced
· 2 cloves garlic, minced
· 1 bell pepper, chopped
· 2 tablespoons olive oil
· 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
· 1 teaspoon ground cumin
· 1 teaspoon dried thyme
· 1 bay leaf
· 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
· Salt and pepper to taste
· 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
· 1 cup cooked rice
Directions
1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by prepping the onions, garlic, and bell pepper (if using). Drain and rinse the Blue Runner Red Beans.
2. Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook for about 5 minutes until they become translucent. Add the garlic and bell pepper, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Season the beans: Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, and thyme. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors.
4. Add the beans and broth: Pour in the Blue Runner Red Beans, followed by the chicken broth. Add the bay leaf and stir everything together. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Simmer: Reduce the heat and let the beans simmer uncovered for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The broth will thicken, and the flavors will meld together.
6. Final touches: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
7. Serve: Spoon the beans over a bed of warm rice and garnish with fresh parsley.
Blue Runner Red Beans Recipe Variation
Looking for a fun twist on the classic Blue Runner Red Beans recipe? Try this variation to bring extra flavor and texture to your dish!
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the sausage and instead add some diced tomatoes and a handful of spinach for added color and nutrition. You can also add some extra vegetables, such as zucchini or carrots.
- Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give your Blue Runner Red Beans a spicy kick. It’s the perfect option for heat lovers!
- Smoky Version: For a more smoky flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke or use a smoked sausage. This will enhance the overall taste of your dish.
How to Serve Blue Runner Red Beans Recipe
Blue Runner Red Beans can be served in many different ways. Here are some great ideas to enjoy this dish:
- Over Rice: Serve the beans on a bed of warm white rice or brown rice. The rice soaks up all the delicious broth and spices, making each bite extra satisfying.
- With Cornbread: Pair your Blue Runner Red Beans with a slice of buttery cornbread for the ultimate comfort food meal. The crunchy texture of the cornbread complements the soft beans perfectly.
- With a Side Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the beans and add a refreshing touch to your meal.
Storage Options
You can store Blue Runner Red Beans leftovers for future meals. Here’s how:
- In the Refrigerator: Store the beans in an airtight container and keep them refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pot or microwave before serving.
- In the Freezer, Blue Runner Red Beans can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to place them in a freezer-safe container, and when you’re ready to eat, just thaw and reheat.
- Tip: If you plan to freeze the beans, consider omitting any added cream or dairy, as it can alter their texture when frozen.
FAQs About Blue Runner Red Beans Recipe
How do you cook Blue Runner Red Beans?
You can cook Blue Runner Red Beans by simmering them in water, adding your choice of seasoning, and optionally, adding your preferred meat. For best results, soak the beans overnight and cook them at a low temperature for a long time to enhance the flavor.
Can Blue Runner Red Beans be used in other recipes?
Yes, Blue Runner Red Beans can be used in various recipes, such as soups, stews, salads, and casseroles. Their versatility makes them a great addition to many dishes.
How long does it take to cook Blue Runner Red Beans?
Cooking Blue Runner Red Beans typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, assuming they are soaked overnight. If not soaked, it may take a bit longer, around 2 hours, to soften them properly.
Are Blue Runner Red Beans healthy?
Yes, Blue Runner Red Beans are packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients like iron and potassium. They are a nutritious option for heart-healthy meals and maintaining a balanced diet.
