Cranberry beans, also known as borlotti beans, are a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can be the star of many delightful dishes. This cranberry bean recipe combines rich flavors and a satisfying texture, making it a perfect addition to your meal rotation. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and sure to please.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Beans

Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
Flavorful: A blend of spices and ingredients that create a mouth-watering dish.
Versatile: Can be served as a main dish or a side.
Easy to Make: Simple steps and readily available ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 cup dried cranberry beans
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 bay leaf
4 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

How to Make Cranberry Beans

Prep the Beans: Soak the cranberry beans in water overnight. Drain and rinse before cooking.
Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in minced garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 2 minutes.
Cook the Beans: Add the drained cranberry beans, bay leaf, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until beans are tender.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Variations and Tips

Add Greens: Stir in a handful of spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for extra nutrients.
Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken or tofu to the beans for additional protein.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference.
Serving Suggestions: Serve over rice, pasta, or with a slice of crusty bread.

How to Store Cranberry Beans

Refrigerator: Store leftover cranberry beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Delicious Cranberry Beans Recipe

Recipe by Rose HernandezCourse: Main Course, Side DishCuisine: American, MediterraneanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

hour

Calories

250

kcal

Ingredients

1 cup dried cranberry beans
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 bay leaf
4 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Prep the Beans: Soak the cranberry beans in water overnight. Drain and rinse before cooking.
Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in minced garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 2 minutes.
Cook the Beans: Add the drained cranberry beans, bay leaf, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until beans are tender.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Notes

This cranberry beans recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a healthy and tasty meal. Give it a try and discover why cranberry beans are a beloved ingredient in many kitchens!