When in the mood for a comforting, healthy, incredibly simple dish, try this Camellia Red Bean Recipe. Nutrient-dense and flavorful, this dish features a beautifully earthy flavor that’s bound to appease even the pickiest of eaters. What makes it even better? It’s a breeze to prepare! And, whether you’re a cooking pro or entering the kitchen for the first time, this healthy bean recipe is something you’ll add to your meal rotation for the long haul.Plus, it’s budget-friendly, making it a perfect choice for families on the go.
The best thing about Camellia Beans Cooking was that they’re versatile. You can serve them alone as a side dish or pair them with grains, veggies or a salad for a full meal. I’ve always said that a great bean recipe is a kitchen’s best-kept secret — simple to prepare, full of nutrition and sure to please. If you’ve made my Southern Red Beans recipe in the past, you’re going to want to check out this variation on another classic. So grab your apron and let’s dive into making these flavorful, vegan red beans!
What is Camellia Red Bean Recipe?
The Camellia Red Bean Recipe is no ordinary bean recipe — it is a warm hearty comforting dish made with Camellia beans, a reputable well-known and trusted bean brand. If you’ve heard the saying, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” well, this dish will seal the deal with anyone with its bold flavor and satisfying texture. How do these beans get the name “Camellia Red Beans”? Well, the reason being, they are all harvested and packaged under the famous Camellia brand, which has been found on the shelves of Southern kitchens for decades. One of the features of camellia beans is their uniform quality, color, and taste. What’s the secret sauce behind this fabulous recipe? Use simple ingredients, take your time, add love!
Try making this dish yourself, and you’ll see how it transforms into something much more than just a side dish. Ready to dive into the world of beans? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Camellia Red Bean Recipe
A couple reasons why you’re going to love this Camellia Red Bean Recipe. First, it’s as easy as can be to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients you probably already have on hand in your pantry. Second, it’s healthy! Macros: Beans provide great plant-based protein, fiber, and tons of important minerals (iron and magnesium) as well. They’re a great side to any dinner, particularly if you’re looking for a hearty and nutrient-rich meal.
Another boon of this recipe is its flexibility. You can make it as spicy or mild as you want by tweaking the seasonings. Add a touch of smoked paprika for depth, or stick to salt and pepper. Plus, it’s the perfect dish to serve alongside other recipes — like Southern Collard Greens or a Tomato Cucumber Salad.
Compared to some of the other crowd-pleasing recipes on the blog—Vegan Chili, Vegan Hamburger Helper, etc.—this red bean dish is much lighter and much quicker, but still delivers the cozy vibe of their heavier counterparts. No hours of simmering necessary! It’s great for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together.” So why not try it and see just how versatile and delicious beans can be?
How to Make Camellia Red Beans
Quick Overview
Easy, Fast And So Delicious Camellia Red Bean Recipe The beans are tender in a subtle, savory broth that you’ll want to drink up to the last drop. It just requires about 10 minutes of preparation; the cooking process is straightforward. You’ll wind up with a dish that’s full of flavor and hearty in under an hour.
Key Ingredients for Camellia Red Bean Recipe:
Before you get started, here are the ingredients you’ll need:
- 1 bag of Camellia Red Beans (about 1 lb)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or water, if preferred)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp cumin (optional for an extra kick)
- 1-2 tbsp lemon juice (for a touch of brightness)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Rinse the Beans: Start by rinsing the Camellia Red Beans in a colander under cold water. This step ensures that the beans are clean and free from any dirt or debris.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it’s translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Beans: Add the rinsed red beans to the pot along with the vegetable broth (or water). Stir in the bay leaf, smoked paprika, cumin, and season with salt and pepper. Bring everything to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer: Once the mixture comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the beans simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until they are tender. Stir occasionally and check the beans’ texture. If you prefer a creamier consistency, you can mash a portion of the beans with a spoon to thicken the broth.
- Finish: Remove the bay leaf and stir in the lemon juice. Taste and adjust the seasonings with more salt, pepper, or spices if needed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Your Camellia Red Beans are now ready! Serve them hot as a side dish, over rice, or with your favorite greens.
What to Serve Camellia Red Beans With
These beans are incredibly versatile and pair well with a wide variety of dishes. Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:
- Rice: A bed of warm rice (white, brown, or even quinoa) makes a perfect base for these beans.
- Greens: Serve the beans with a side of collard greens, kale, or spinach for a hearty, Southern-inspired meal.
- Bread: A slice of cornbread or a warm baguette to scoop up the beans adds a delicious, comforting touch.
- Salads: A fresh cucumber and tomato salad would be the perfect complement to this dish, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich beans.
Top Tips for Perfecting Camellia Red Beans
- Soak the Beans: If you have the time, soaking the beans overnight will help them cook faster and make them even more tender. However, this step is optional.
- Add More Flavor: For extra depth, try adding smoked sausage, ham hocks, or a few drops of hot sauce to spice things up.
- Check for Tenderness: Beans can vary in cooking time based on their age. If your beans aren’t as tender as you’d like after an hour, let them simmer for a little longer.
- Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. More cumin for heat, or a pinch of thyme for a savory kick can make all the difference.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Storing: Leftover beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the beans in portions for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, simply place the beans in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen up the consistency. Heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Health Benefits of Camellia Red Beans
| Health Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| High in Protein | Camellia red beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making them a great addition to vegan and vegetarian diets. |
| Rich in Fiber | These beans are packed with fiber, which helps support digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. |
| Low in Fat | Red beans are low in fat, making them heart-healthy and great for weight management. |
| Packed with Nutrients | They provide essential nutrients like iron, magnesium, and potassium, which are beneficial for overall health. |
Conclusion
This Camellia Red Bean Recipe is simple, fast, and flavorful. Whether you’re cooking a family meal or prepping for the week, these beans are bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Try this recipe today, and you’ll find out how versatile and delicious Camellia beans are!
Camellia Red Bean Recipe – Quick, Easy, and Delicious
Course: Side DishCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4-6
servings10
minutes45
minutes220
kcalA quick and easy vegan recipe featuring Camellia red beans cooked to tender perfection with savory seasonings. A healthy and flavorful side dish that pairs beautifully with grains, greens, or as a stand-alone meal.
Ingredients
1 bag of Camellia Red Beans (about 1 lb)
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
4 cups vegetable broth (or water, if preferred)
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tsp cumin (optional for an extra kick)
1-2 tbsp lemon juice (for a touch of brightness)
Directions
- Rinse the Beans: Start by rinsing the Camellia Red Beans in a colander under cold water. This step ensures that the beans are clean and free from any dirt or debris.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it’s translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Beans: Add the rinsed red beans to the pot along with the vegetable broth (or water). Stir in the bay leaf, smoked paprika, cumin, and season with salt and pepper. Bring everything to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer: Once the mixture comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the beans simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until they are tender. Stir occasionally and check the beans’ texture. If you prefer a creamier consistency, you can mash a portion of the beans with a spoon to thicken the broth.
- Finish: Remove the bay leaf and stir in the lemon juice. Taste and adjust the seasonings with more salt, pepper, or spices if needed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Your Camellia Red Beans are now ready! Serve them hot as a side dish, over rice, or with your favorite greens.
Notes
- For added depth of flavor, feel free to add smoked paprika, ham hocks, or a splash of hot sauce. You can also soak the beans overnight for quicker cooking.
FAQs : Camellia Red Bean Recipe
What are Camellia red beans?
Camellia red beans are a variety of kidney beans, known for their rich, earthy flavor. They are a popular choice in Southern cooking and offer a hearty, nutritious base for many dishes.
How do I cook Camellia red beans?
To cook Camellia red beans, start by soaking them overnight. Then, simmer the beans in water or broth until tender. You can also use a slow cooker for convenience.
Can I make Camellia red beans ahead of time?
Yes, Camellia red beans can be prepared ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.
What can I serve with Camellia red beans?
Camellia red beans pair well with cornbread, rice, or a fresh green salad. They also complement grilled meats and vegetables for a satisfying meal.
Are Camellia red beans a healthy choice?
Yes, Camellia red beans are a great source of protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron and magnesium. They’re a nutritious option for a variety of dietary needs.
Can I make Camellia red beans vegan?
Absolutely! To make Camellia red beans vegan, simply cook them with vegetable broth instead of meat-based stock and skip any animal products like bacon or sausage.
Share Your Twist
Everyone loves to make recipes their own and this Camellia Red Bean Recipe is the dish to break out the creativity! Did you do something special and put ingredients or switch up the seasonings to give this dish your own spin? Maybe you’ve made it more spicy or smoky, or even a stew by stirring in vegetables or grains. No matter your spin, we want to know!
Try These Ideas for Your Own Twist:
- Smoky Flavor: Add a few slices of smoked sausage, bacon, or a ham hock for a rich, smoky taste.
- Spicy Kick: Spice things up with a dash of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with herbs like thyme, bay leaves, or a touch of rosemary for an added fragrance.
- Meat-Free Magic: Keep it completely plant-based by using vegetable broth and adding extra veggies like carrots or bell peppers.
Have fun making this dish your own and share your twist with us in the comments below!
