10 Cheap and Delicious Meals You Can Make with Beans
The cooking time for these meals can vary depending on the recipe and method used. Some of the meals, such as salads and burritos, can be assembled quickly using canned beans, while others, such as soups and stews, may take longer to cook if using dried beans.
However, with proper planning, you can make these meals in 30 minutes to 1 hour, making them a convenient option for busy weeknights or quick and easy weekend meals.
Beans are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to salads and stir-fries. They are also incredibly affordable, making them an excellent choice for budget-friendly meals. In this article, we will explore ten cheap meals that you can make with beans.
1. Bean Burrito
Bean burritos are a quick and easy meal that can be made in no time. They are also customizable, so you can add your favorite toppings and ingredients. You can use black or pinto beans, rice, and your favorite toppings, such as salsa, cheese, lettuce, and sour cream. Simply wrap the mixture in a flour tortilla, and you have a tasty and filling meal.
Ingredients: canned kidney beans, canned chickpeas, canned green beans, red onion, red bell pepper, olive oil, white vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, black pepper.
A Bean Burrito can take around 20-30 minutes to make, depending on the recipe and method used. Here is a general breakdown of the time needed for each step:
- Cook rice: Brown rice typically takes around 20-25 minutes to cook, but can vary depending on the type of rice used and cooking method. Instant rice can be cooked in just a few minutes.
- Prepare beans: Canned beans can be used and heated up quickly in a few minutes, or you can make your own refried beans which can take around 15-20 minutes to cook on the stove.
- Prepare toppings: While the rice and beans are cooking, you can chop up your toppings such as tomatoes, lettuce, avocado, cheese, and sour cream.
- Assemble burrito: Once the rice and beans are cooked and the toppings are prepared, it’s time to assemble the burrito. Place a tortilla on a plate, add the rice and beans, then the toppings. Fold in the sides of the tortilla and then roll it up from the bottom to create a burrito.
2. Bean Soup
Bean soup is a comforting and hearty dish that can be made with canned or cooked beans. It is also an excellent way to use up any leftover vegetables you may have. You can add diced vegetables, such as onions, carrots, and celery, and broth to make it more flavorful. It is an excellent meal for a cold day and can be served with bread or crackers.
The time it takes to make a bean soup can vary depending on the recipe and method used. Here is a general breakdown of the time needed for each step:
- Soak beans: If you’re using dried beans, you’ll need to soak them first. This typically takes around 6-8 hours or overnight.
- Cook beans: After soaking, the beans need to be cooked. This can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the type of bean and cooking method used. Pressure cooking can significantly reduce the cooking time.
- Prepare vegetables and seasonings: While the beans are cooking, you can chop up your vegetables such as onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and any other vegetables you want to add. You can also prepare your seasonings such as salt, pepper, and any other spices you want to use.
- Cook soup: Once the beans are cooked, you can start cooking the soup. This typically involves sautéing the vegetables and seasonings in a pot, adding the cooked beans, and then adding any liquid such as water, broth or tomato sauce. The soup can simmer for around 30 minutes to an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
Overall, the total time to make a bean soup can range from 1 to 3 hours, depending on the type of beans and cooking method used. However, with proper planning and preparation, you can make a delicious and hearty bean soup that is worth the effort.
3. Bean Salad
Bean salad is a healthy and flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer day. You can toss cooked beans with chopped vegetables, herbs, and a simple vinaigrette for a refreshing and nutritious salad. You can also add grains, such as quinoa or brown rice, to make it more filling.
The time it takes to make a bean salad can vary depending on the recipe and method used. Here is a general breakdown of the time needed for each step:
- Drain and rinse beans: If you’re using canned beans, this step will take only a few minutes to drain and rinse the beans. If you’re using dried beans, you’ll need to soak them overnight and cook them until tender, which can take several hours.
- Prepare vegetables and seasonings: While the beans are draining, you can chop up your vegetables such as tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, and cilantro. You can also prepare your seasonings such as salt, pepper, and any other spices you want to use.
- Combine ingredients: Once the beans and vegetables are prepared, simply mix them together in a bowl with your desired dressing. This step usually takes only a few minutes.
- Chill: Bean salad is best when chilled for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together. This step can take anywhere from 2 to 24 hours, depending on how long you want to chill the salad.
Overall, making a bean salad can take anywhere from a few minutes to several hours, depending on whether you’re using canned or dried beans and how long you want to chill the salad. However, it’s a simple and healthy dish that can be a great addition to any meal or enjoyed on its own.
4. Refried Beans
Refried beans are a delicious and protein-packed side dish that is easy to make. You can mash cooked pinto or black beans with garlic, cumin, and chili powder for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Refried beans can also be used as a filling for tacos or burritos.
Making refried beans from scratch can take around 1-2 hours, depending on the recipe and method used. Here is a general breakdown of the time needed for each step:
- Soak beans (optional): If you’re using dried beans, you can soak them overnight or for at least 6 hours to reduce cooking time. This step is optional but can shorten the cooking time.
- Cook beans: After soaking (if applicable), you’ll need to cook the beans until they’re tender. This can take around 1-2 hours, depending on the type of bean and cooking method used. Pressure cooking can significantly reduce the cooking time.
- Fry onions and garlic: While the beans are cooking, you can fry some diced onions and minced garlic in a pan until they’re soft and fragrant.
- Mash beans: Once the beans are cooked, you’ll need to drain them and then mash them with a potato masher or fork. You can add some of the cooking liquid to make them easier to mash.
- Fry mashed beans: Add the mashed beans to the pan with the onions and garlic and fry them for a few minutes until they’re hot and slightly crispy.
- Season: Add salt, pepper, cumin, and any other spices you like to the refried beans and stir well.
Overall, making refried beans from scratch can be a time-consuming process, but the result is a delicious and nutritious dish that is worth the effort. You can also use canned beans to save time and skip the soaking and cooking step, although the flavour and texture may not be as good as homemade refried beans.
5. Three Bean Chili
Three bean chili is a hearty and warming dish that can be made with canned or cooked kidney, black, and pinto beans. You can add diced tomatoes, onions, peppers, and chili powder for more flavor. It is an excellent meal for a chilly evening and can be served with cornbread.
Making three bean chili can take around 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the recipe and method used. Here is a general breakdown of the time needed for each step:
- Saute onions and garlic: Heat some oil in a large pot or Dutch oven and saute diced onions and minced garlic until they’re soft and fragrant.
- Add vegetables: Add diced bell peppers, carrots, celery, and any other vegetables you like to the pot and saute for a few minutes until they’re slightly softened.
- Add canned beans: Drain and rinse canned beans such as kidney beans, black beans, and chickpeas and add them to the pot.
- Add diced tomatoes and tomato paste: Add a can of diced tomatoes and a few tablespoons of tomato paste to the pot and stir well.
- Add seasonings: Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot and stir well.
- Simmer: Bring the chili to a simmer and let it cook for around 20-30 minutes until the flavors meld together and the vegetables are tender.
Overall, making three bean chili is a relatively quick and easy process that can be completed in around 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on how many vegetables and spices you add. The result is a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for chilly days or whenever you’re craving a satisfying bowl of comfort food.
6. Bean and Rice Bowl
Bean and rice bowls are a filling and nutritious meal that can be customized to your liking. You can serve cooked beans over rice with your favorite toppings, such as avocado, salsa, and cheese. You can also add grilled vegetables or a fried egg for more flavour.
Making a bean and rice bowl can take around 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the recipe and method used. Here is a general breakdown of the time needed for each step:
- Cook rice: Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear, then add it to a pot with water and salt. Bring the water to a boil, reduce heat, and cover the pot. Let the rice simmer until tender and the water is absorbed, which usually takes around 18-20 minutes.
- Prepare vegetables: While the rice is cooking, you can prepare your vegetables such as chopped tomatoes, sliced avocado, shredded lettuce, and diced onions.
- Cook beans: Drain and rinse canned beans or cook dried beans until they’re tender. This step can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the type of bean and cooking method used.
- Season beans: Once the beans are cooked, you can season them with salt, pepper, cumin, and any other spices you like.
- Assemble the bowl: Once all the components are ready, you can assemble your bean and rice bowl by placing a scoop of rice in a bowl, then adding the beans and vegetables on top. You can also drizzle some salsa or hot sauce on top.
Overall, making a bean and rice bowl is a fairly quick and easy process that can be completed in around 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the type of beans and rice you use. It’s a healthy and satisfying meal that can be customized with your favourite vegetables and seasonings to make it your own.
7. Vegetarian Bean Tacos
Vegetarian bean tacos are a flavorful and satisfying meal that can be made with cooked black or pinto beans. You can fill corn tortillas with the beans, diced vegetables, and a sprinkle of cheese for a delicious and healthy meal. You can also add guacamole, salsa, or hot sauce for more flavour.
Making vegetarian bean tacos can take around 20-30 minutes, depending on the recipe and method used. Here is a general breakdown of the time needed for each step:
- Prepare the filling: Drain and rinse canned beans such as black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans. Heat some oil in a skillet and sauté diced onions and minced garlic until they’re soft and fragrant. Add the beans to the skillet and season them with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook the beans for a few minutes until they’re heated through.
- Prepare the toppings: While the filling is cooking, you can prepare your toppings such as diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced avocado, and crumbled cheese.
- Warm the tortillas: You can warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or wrap them in foil and heat them in the oven for a few minutes.
- Assemble the tacos: Once all the components are ready, you can assemble your tacos by placing a spoonful of the bean filling on a warm tortilla, then adding your desired toppings. You can also drizzle some salsa or hot sauce on top.
Overall, making vegetarian bean tacos is a fairly quick and easy process that can be completed in around 20-30 minutes. It’s a delicious and healthy meal that can be customized with your favorite toppings and seasonings to make it your own.
8. Bean and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Bean and vegetable stir-fry is a quick and healthy meal that can be made with cooked beans and your favorite vegetables. You can sauté them in a pan with a simple sauce for a tasty and easy-to-make dinner. You can also add tofu or tempeh for more protein.
Making a bean and vegetable stir-fry can take around 20-30 minutes, depending on the recipe and method used. Here is a general breakdown of the time needed for each step:
- Prepare the vegetables: Cut your vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and onions into bite-sized pieces.
- Cook the vegetables: Heat some oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the vegetables to the pan and stir-fry them until they’re tender-crisp. This step usually takes around 5-10 minutes.
- Add the beans: Drain and rinse canned beans such as black beans or kidney beans, then add them to the pan with the vegetables. Stir-fry everything together for a few minutes until the beans are heated through.
- Season the stir-fry: Season the stir-fry with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and any other desired seasonings. Stir-fry for a few more minutes to combine the flavors.
- Serve: Serve the stir-fry over cooked rice or noodles, and garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds.
Overall, making a bean and vegetable stir-fry is a quick and easy process that can be completed in around 20-30 minutes. It’s a healthy and flavourful meal that can be customized with your favourite vegetables and seasonings to make it your own.
9. Bean and Egg Breakfast
Bean and egg breakfast is a protein-packed and satisfying meal that can be made in no time. You can serve scrambled eggs with black beans, salsa, and avocado for a nutritious and delicious breakfast. You can also add a tortilla or toast for more carbs.
Making a bean and egg breakfast can take around 10-15 minutes, depending on the recipe and method used. Here is a general breakdown of the time needed for each step:
- Heat the beans: Drain and rinse canned beans such as black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans, then heat them up in a small saucepan over medium heat. This step usually takes around 5-7 minutes.
- Fry the eggs: While the beans are heating up, fry some eggs in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. You can cook them to your preferred level of doneness, such as over easy or sunny-side up. This step usually takes around 3-5 minutes.
- Assemble the breakfast: Once the beans and eggs are cooked, you can assemble your breakfast by placing a spoonful of the beans on a plate or bowl, then adding the fried eggs on top. You can also add some diced avocado, salsa, or shredded cheese for extra flavor and nutrition.
Overall, making a bean and egg breakfast is a quick and easy process that can be completed in around 10-15 minutes. It’s a healthy and protein-packed meal that can help you start your day off right.
10. Bean and Cheese Quesadilla
Bean and cheese quesadilla is a simple and tasty meal that can be made with cooked beans and shredded cheese. You can fill a tortilla with the beans and cheese and cook it in a skillet until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy. You can also add diced vegetables or hot sauce for more flavour.
Making a bean and cheese quesadilla can take around 10-15 minutes, depending on the recipe and method used. Here is a general breakdown of the time needed for each step:
- Prepare the filling: Drain and rinse canned beans such as black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans, then mash them with a fork or potato masher. Grate some cheese such as cheddar, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack.
- Assemble the quesadilla: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle some cheese on one half of the tortilla. Add a spoonful of the mashed beans on top of the cheese, then sprinkle some more cheese on top of the beans. Fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Cook the quesadilla for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is golden brown, then flip it over and cook the other side until it’s golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Cut the quesadilla into wedges and serve it with some salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for dipping.
Overall, making a bean and cheese quesadilla is a quick and easy process that can be completed in around 10-15 minutes. It’s a delicious and filling meal that can be customized with your favourite types of beans and cheese to make it your own.
Beans are an affordable and versatile ingredient
That can be used in a variety of meals, from soups and salads to burritos and stir-fries. They are also packed with nutrients, such as protein, fiber, and vitamins, making them a healthy choice for any diet.
One of the benefits of using beans in your meals is their versatility. They can be used in a variety of cuisines, from Mexican to Indian and beyond. This means you can experiment with different flavors and spices to create unique and delicious dishes. For example, you can use chickpeas in a curry, black beans in a salsa, or kidney beans in a chili.
Another benefit of using beans in your meals is their affordability. Canned beans are an excellent option if you are short on time, and they are often cheaper than meat or poultry. However, if you have more time, cooking dried beans can be even more affordable. You can also buy beans in bulk, which can save you money in the long run.
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