Welcome to a delicious journey of flavors with our Black Bean Kidney Bean Recipe that is not only hearty but also packed with nutrition. Combining the rich textures of black beans and kidney beans, this dish offers a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and vibrant spices that will excite your palate.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian, a busy professional looking for quick meals, or someone wanting to add more plant-based meals to their diet, this recipe is an absolute must-try.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make a flavorful and satisfying dish. From the ingredients and equipment needed to the step-by-step cooking process, plus tips and suggestions for variations, you’ll be all set to create a meal that everyone will love.
Get ready to transform simple beans into a culinary masterpiece!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Black Bean Kidney Bean Recipe is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it is incredibly versatile — perfect as a main dish, side, or even a filling for wraps and tacos.
The combination of black beans and kidney beans provides a robust texture and a hearty flavor that complements a wide range of spices and vegetables.
Additionally, this recipe is packed with plant-based protein, making it a nutritious option for vegans and vegetarians. The fiber content supports digestive health, and the slow-cooked spices enhance the overall taste profile, making every bite satisfying.
Best of all, this dish is simple to prepare with pantry staples, making it a perfect option for meal prepping or quick weeknight dinners. It stores beautifully and reheats well, so you can enjoy it for days!
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried black beans (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup dried kidney beans (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Optional: fresh cilantro for garnish
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven for cooking the beans and stew
- Colander for rinsing beans
- Knife and cutting board for chopping vegetables
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Can opener (if using canned beans or tomatoes)
Instructions
- Prepare the beans: If using dried beans, soak the black beans and kidney beans overnight in plenty of water. Drain and rinse before cooking. Place the soaked beans in a large pot, cover with fresh water, and simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours until tender. Drain and set aside. If using canned beans, simply rinse and drain them before use.
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and diced bell pepper, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Add spices: Sprinkle in the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and oregano. Stir continuously for about 1 minute to toast the spices and release their aromas.
- Add tomatoes and broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juice and the vegetable broth. Stir everything together, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Combine beans: Add the cooked (or canned) black beans and kidney beans to the pot. Stir well to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the stew simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
“For the best flavor, allow the stew to rest for a few hours or overnight in the fridge; the flavors deepen beautifully!”
- Make it spicy: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper when sautéing the aromatics for an extra kick.
- Swap beans: Feel free to use pinto beans or cannellini beans if you want to vary the texture and taste.
- Add veggies: Incorporate corn, diced carrots, or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
- Serve as chili: For a chili-style dish, add a tablespoon of tomato paste and a splash of apple cider vinegar for tang.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or a splash of coconut milk before serving for a creamy twist.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 15 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Sodium | 350 mg* |
| Iron | 3.5 mg |
*Sodium content may vary depending on broth and canned ingredients used.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty bean dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and meals. Serve it over fluffy steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
For a lighter option, enjoy it with a crisp green salad and warm crusty bread. It also makes a fantastic filling for tacos or burritos, topped with fresh avocado and salsa.
For a Mexican-inspired twist, top with shredded cheese and a squeeze of lime. Alternatively, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a baked sweet potato for a comforting and nutritious dinner.
Conclusion
This Black Bean Kidney Bean Recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a flavorful and nutritious dish suitable for any occasion. It’s easy to prepare, adaptable to your taste preferences, and packed with wholesome goodness.
Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or trying to eat more plant-based meals, this recipe will surely become a staple.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices and vegetables to make it your own. And if you enjoyed this recipe, check out some of our other favorites like Hearty Lentil Stew, Spicy Chickpea Curry, and Quinoa Black Bean Salad for more delicious plant-based inspiration!
📖 Recipe Card: Black Bean Kidney Bean Chili
Description: A hearty and flavorful chili featuring black beans and kidney beans simmered with spices and vegetables. Perfect for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT55M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried black beans, soaked overnight
- 1 cup dried kidney beans, soaked overnight
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Drain and rinse soaked beans.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; sauté until softened.
- Add beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and spices.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 35-40 minutes until beans are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper, then serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 | Protein: 18g | Fat: 5g | Carbs: 50g
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