Are you looking for a versatile ingredient to add some excitement to your meals? Look no further than the humble Anasazi bean! With their nutty, slightly sweet flavor and creamy texture, these beans are a great addition to any dish. Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty and comforting or light and refreshing, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 delicious Anasazi bean recipes.
From classic chili to global-inspired dishes like tacos and jambalaya, we’ve gathered some of the best and most creative ways to use these tasty beans. And the best part? Each recipe is easy to make and requires minimal preparation, so you can get cooking in no time!
In this article, we’ll be sharing a variety of Anasazi bean recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From comforting casseroles to vibrant salads, there’s something for everyone in this collection. So grab your apron and let’s get started with some delicious Anasazi bean dishes!
Spicy Anasazi Bean Chili with Cornbread Topping
This hearty chili combines the rich flavors of Anasazi beans with a spicy kick, topped with a crispy cornbread crust. Perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
For the chili:
– 1 can Anasazi beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (optional)
For the cornbread topping:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add bell pepper and cook until tender.
3. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add Anasazi beans, diced tomatoes, and hot sauce (if using). Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare cornbread topping by whisking together flour, cornmeal, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk and egg.
6. Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Pour onto the chili and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Slow-Cooked Anasazi Beans with Smoked Ham Hock
This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked ham hock with the natural sweetness of Anasazi beans, resulting in a comforting and flavorful side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried Anasazi beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 smoked ham hock, rinsed and patted dry
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low heat.
2. In the slow cooker, combine Anasazi beans, smoked ham hock, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour in chicken broth and add olive oil.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove ham hock and pull apart meat; return to slow cooker.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Anasazi Bean and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the creamy texture of Anasazi beans, all wrapped up in a sweet bell pepper package. Perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked Anasazi beans (canned or cooked from scratch)
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, or diced tomatoes for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, mix together cooked Anasazi beans, quinoa, onion, and garlic.
4. Stuff each pepper with the bean-quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and season with salt and pepper.
6. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Anasazi Bean Soup with Fresh Herbs
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of creamy and savory, featuring the rich flavor of Anasazi beans. With the addition of fresh herbs, it’s a delicious and comforting meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried Anasazi beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the soaked Anasazi beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until beans are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender; puree until smooth.
4. Stir in heavy cream. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Southwestern Anasazi Bean Salad with Lime Dressing
This vibrant salad celebrates the bold flavors of the American Southwest, featuring tender anasazi beans, crunchy vegetables, and a zesty lime dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or a refreshing side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked anasazi beans
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the anasazi beans, red bell pepper, yellow onion, cilantro, and jalapeño.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the bean mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of preparation time.
Anasazi Bean and Sweet Potato Stew
This hearty stew is a flavorful blend of Anasazi beans, sweet potatoes, and aromatic spices, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch. With its rich, comforting flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 can Anasazi beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in a little water until tender.
2. Add the Anasazi beans, sweet potatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Garlicky Anasazi Beans with Rosemary and Olive Oil
This hearty recipe combines the nutty flavor of Anasazi beans with the pungency of garlic, the earthiness of rosemary, and the richness of olive oil. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried Anasazi beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, combine the Anasazi beans, garlic, and rosemary.
3. Add the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Cover the pot and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the beans are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional rosemary if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Anasazi Bean and Chorizo Tacos with Avocado
Experience the bold flavors of the Southwest with this vibrant taco recipe, combining tender Anasazi beans with spicy chorizo and creamy avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 can Anasazi beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 pound chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime wedges (optional)
– Avocado, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook chorizo over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Stir in Anasazi beans and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning bean and chorizo mixture onto tortillas, topping with avocado slices and a squeeze of lime juice (if desired).
6. Serve immediately.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Anasazi Bean Hummus with Roasted Red Peppers
This creamy dip combines the nutty flavor of Anasazi beans with the sweetness of roasted red peppers, perfect for snacking or as a side to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Anasazi beans
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 roasted red peppers (see note)
– 1/4 cup water
– Optional: paprika, cumin, or other spices to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the red peppers by placing them on a baking sheet and baking for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine Anasazi beans, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, salt, and spices (if using). Blend until smooth.
4. Add the roasted red peppers, olive oil, and water to the blender. Blend until combined and creamy.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve with pita chips, vegetables, or crackers.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Anasazi Bean and Kale Soup with Parmesan
This hearty soup combines the earthy flavors of Anasazi beans, curly kale, and nutty Parmesan cheese for a comforting and nutritious meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a soothing side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 can Anasazi beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the Anasazi beans, vegetable broth, and chopped kale to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the kale is tender.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Anasazi Bean and Bacon Breakfast Skillet
Start your day with a flavorful and nutritious breakfast skillet that combines the rich taste of bacon, creamy anasazi beans, and scrambled eggs. This recipe is perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb dried anasazi beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro, or sliced avocado for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the bacon in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until crispy.
3. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the soaked anasazi beans to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and season with salt and pepper.
7. Pour the eggs over the bean mixture in the skillet and scramble until cooked through.
8. Serve hot, topped with crispy bacon and any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Anasazi Bean and Butternut Squash Curry
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Anasazi beans, butternut squash, and warm spices to create a comforting and nutritious curry perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried Anasazi beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
3. Add cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add soaked Anasazi beans, butternut squash, and coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring to a boil, then transfer to the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes or until squash is tender.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes.
Anasazi Bean and Spinach Stuffed Shells
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed shells, this recipe combines the creamy goodness of Anasazi beans with the earthy sweetness of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 (16 oz) can Anasazi beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add Anasazi beans, spinach, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Stir until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the bean-spinach mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until shells are tender.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Anasazi Bean and Chicken Enchilada Casserole
Anasazi Bean and Chicken Enchilada Casserole: A hearty, flavorful dish that combines the comfort of chicken enchiladas with the nutty goodness of Anasazi beans. This casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (16 oz) Anasazi beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 1/2 cup enchilada sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes, black beans, Anasazi beans, chicken, enchilada sauce, and cilantro.
3. Arrange tortillas in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Spoon bean and chicken mixture over tortillas.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese and crumbled queso fresco (if using) on top.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Anasazi Bean and Roasted Tomato Bruschetta
Elevate your appetizers with this flavorful and nutritious bruschetta featuring Anasazi beans, roasted tomatoes, and fresh basil. Perfect for a quick and easy gathering or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) Anasazi beans, drained and rinsed
– 3 large ripe tomatoes, cored and halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roast tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a medium bowl, combine Anasazi beans, garlic, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Toast baguette slices for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
5. Top toasted bread with roasted tomatoes, bean mixture, and chopped basil.
6. If desired, sprinkle feta cheese on top.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Anasazi Bean and Sausage Jambalaya
A hearty, one-pot dish that combines the flavors of New Orleans with the boldness of the American Southwest.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked Anasazi beans (or pinto beans)
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large cast-iron pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, Anasazi beans, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the chicken broth and tomato paste; stir to combine.
6. Return the sausage to the pot and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Anasazi Bean and Cornbread Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of Anasazi beans, sweet corn, and crispy cornbread for a satisfying and comforting meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a crowd-pleasing potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Anasazi beans
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
4. Combine cooked Anasazi beans, corn kernels, and skillet mixture.
5. In a separate bowl, prepare cornbread mix according to package instructions.
6. Pour cornbread mixture over bean mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Top with shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Anasazi Bean and Mushroom Vegan Burgers
Experience the rich flavors of the American Southwest with these Anasazi bean and mushroom vegan burgers, packed with texture and depth. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Anasazi beans (or substitute with black beans)
– 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, or a mix)
– 1/4 cup oats
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mash the cooked Anasazi beans using a fork or potato masher.
3. Add the sautéed mushrooms, oats, breadcrumbs, tomato paste, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the mashed beans. Mix well.
4. Using your hands, shape the mixture into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
5. Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each patty.
6. Spray or brush the tops with cooking spray or oil.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fall in love with Anasazi beans! This article shares 18 delicious and hearty recipes that showcase the versatility of these nutritious legumes. From comforting stews and soups to flavorful salads and tacos, there’s something for every occasion. Discover new ways to enjoy Anasazi beans with recipes like Spicy Chili, Slow-Cooked Beans with Smoked Ham Hock, and even vegan burgers! With flavors ranging from smoky to spicy to creamy, you’ll never get bored.
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