Get ready to fall head over heels for the humble Camellia bean! These versatile legumes are a staple in many cuisines around the world, and once you start experimenting with them, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them. Whether you’re looking for a hearty soup or stew, a flavorful dip or spread, or even a sweet treat, Camellia beans have got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the incredible versatility of these little green wonders. From classic Southern-style dishes to international twists and creative desserts, there’s something for everyone in our collection. So grab your apron, preheat your oven or stovetop, and get ready to indulge in a culinary journey that will leave you craving more.
Creamy Camellia Bean Hummus with Roasted Garlic
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and aromatic hummus recipe, featuring the subtle sweetness of camellia beans and the depth of roasted garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked camellia beans
– 1/4 cup chickpeas
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves roasted garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap 2-3 whole garlic cloves in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine camellia beans, chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, roasted garlic, salt, and 1 tablespoon water. Blend until smooth.
3. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top. Continue blending until well combined and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve with pita chips, vegetables, or crackers.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes (including roasting time)
Spicy Cajun Camellia Bean and Sausage Soup
This hearty soup combines the spicy kick of Cajun seasoning with the rich flavor of camellia beans and sausage, perfect for a cold winter’s day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked sausage (such as Andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups camellia beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the camellia beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow-Cooked Camellia Bean Chili with Ground Beef
A hearty and comforting chili recipe that’s perfect for a cold winter night. This slow-cooked delight combines the rich flavor of ground beef with the creamy texture of Camellia beans, all wrapped up in a savory blend of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups Camellia beans (drained and rinsed)
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker. Add the Camellia beans, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Stir well to combine, then add the water.
6. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Mediterranean Camellia Bean Salad with Feta and Olives
Experience the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with this hearty salad, featuring creamy camellia beans, tangy feta cheese, and briny olives.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) camellia beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine camellia beans, olives, and feta cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
3. Pour the dressing over the bean mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Camellia Bean and Kale Stew with Smoked Paprika
This stew is a perfect blend of earthy camellia beans, slightly bitter kale, and the smoky depth of paprika. It’s a comforting and nutritious meal that’s ready in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried camellia beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the camellia beans, kale, smoked paprika, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the beans are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Southern-Style Camellia Beans with Ham Hocks
A classic Southern dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal or special occasion, these tender beans and crispy ham hocks are slow-cooked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried Camellia beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks (about 1 pound)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine the soaked and drained Camellia beans, ham hocks, onion, garlic, chicken broth, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper.
3. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
4. Braise for 6-8 hours or overnight (8-10 hours), stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and the ham hocks are crispy.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours or overnight
Camellia Bean and Cheese Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of camellia beans with melted cheese and sweet bell peppers for a delicious and nutritious dish. Perfect as a main course or side, these stuffed peppers are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup cooked camellia beans
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together camellia beans, cheese, parsley, garlic, and salt.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the bean mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Camellia Bean Burgers with Avocado Lime Sauce
Elevate your burger game with these flavorful Camellia bean patties, paired with a creamy and zesty avocado lime sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 can Camellia beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Avocado Lime Sauce (recipe below)
Avocado Lime Sauce:
– 3 ripe avocados, mashed
– Juice of 1 lime
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mash Camellia beans with a fork until coarsely chopped.
3. Add brown rice, bell pepper, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper; mix well.
4. Form into 4 patties and cook for 4-5 minutes per side or until slightly charred.
5. Assemble burgers on buns with Avocado Lime Sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mexican Camellia Bean Dip with Queso Fresco
A creamy and flavorful dip that combines the richness of camellia beans with the tanginess of queso fresco, perfect for dipping tortilla chips or veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) camellia beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup queso fresco, crumbled
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine camellia beans, queso fresco, mayonnaise, lime juice, and cumin.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Camellia Bean and Andouille Sausage Jambalaya
A hearty one-pot dish that combines the rich flavors of Camellia beans, spicy Andouille sausage, and classic jambalaya spices. This recipe is a perfect blend of Louisiana flair and comforting simplicity.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 1 cup Camellia beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onions, garlic, beans, rice, chicken broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 25-30 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Camellia Bean and Sweet Potato Curry
This hearty curry combines the creamy texture of camellia beans with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, perfect for a comforting meal. This recipe is quick to prepare and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 can camellia beans (drained and rinsed)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can coconut milk (full-fat)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add sweet potato and camellia beans. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the curry for 15-20 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Camellia Beans with Molasses and Bacon
A twist on traditional baked beans, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of camellia beans with the richness of molasses and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb dried camellia beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, combine the camellia beans, molasses, brown sugar, bacon, onion, garlic, and mustard.
3. Cover the pot with a lid and bake for 6-8 hours, or until the beans are tender and the liquid has thickened into a rich glaze.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional bacon if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Camellia Bean and Chicken Enchilada Casserole
A flavorful and satisfying twist on traditional enchiladas, this casserole combines tender chicken, creamy Camellia beans, and spicy cheese for a deliciously easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 1 can (15 oz) Camellia beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup enchilada sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add chicken and stir to combine.
3. In a separate pot, heat enchilada sauce over medium heat.
4. Arrange tortillas in a single layer in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Spoon chicken mixture, Camellia beans, and enchilada sauce over tortillas.
6. Top with cheese and cilantro.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herbed Camellia Bean and Tomato Bruschetta
A flavorful twist on the classic bruschetta, this recipe combines the creamy richness of camellia beans with the brightness of fresh herbs and juicy tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can camellia beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together camellia beans, tomatoes, parsley, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
4. Spoon the camellia bean mixture over each bread slice, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until bread is toasted and slightly puffed.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Camellia Bean and Spinach Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of portobello mushrooms with the creamy richness of camellia beans and wilted spinach. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps cleaned
– 1 can (15 oz) camellia beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix camellia beans, spinach, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the bean-spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the four caps.
4. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using).
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Camellia Bean and Cornbread Skillet Bake
A hearty and comforting one-skillet meal that combines the flavors of Camellia beans, cornbread, and spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Camellia beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, combine Camellia beans, cornbread mix, milk, egg, melted butter, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown and set.
4. If using cheese, sprinkle on top and return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until melted.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Camellia Bean Minestrone Soup with Parmesan
This Italian-inspired soup is a perfect blend of comforting flavors and textures, featuring tender camellia beans, rich vegetables, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) camellia beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, red bell pepper, carrot, and celery in a little water until tender.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, camellia beans, vegetable broth, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Serve hot, topped with grated parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Camellia Bean and Chorizo Tacos with Lime Crema
Brighten up your taco Tuesday with this vibrant combination of creamy camellia beans, spicy chorizo, and zesty lime crema.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) camellia beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup cooked chorizo sausage, crumbled
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, avocado
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine camellia beans, chorizo sausage, salt, and pepper.
2. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Assemble tacos by spooning the bean and chorizo mixture onto a warmed tortilla.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, sour cream, and honey until smooth.
5. Drizzle lime crema over the tacos and add desired toppings.
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes (including cooking time for chorizo sausage)
Camellia Bean and Roasted Vegetable Buddha Bowl
This recipe combines the creamy richness of Camellia beans with the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables, all wrapped up in a nutritious and filling Buddha bowl. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can Camellia beans (drained and rinsed)
– 2 medium-sized sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, toss sweet potatoes, red bell pepper, onion, and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
4. In a separate pan, heat Camellia beans over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.
5. Assemble the Buddha bowl by placing roasted vegetables at the bottom, followed by the warmed Camellia beans.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Camellia Bean Chocolate Brownies with Walnuts
These decadent brownies combine the nutty flavor of camellia beans with the earthy taste of walnuts, all wrapped up in a dense and fudgy chocolate package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup (120g) sugar
– 1/4 cup (30g) camellia bean paste or mashed camellia beans
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnuts
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Melt chocolate chips and butter in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Stir until smooth.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, camellia bean paste, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the melted chocolate mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts and salt.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted 2 inches from the edge comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility and flavor of Camellia beans with these 20 mouth-watering recipes! From creamy hummus to spicy soups, hearty chilis to Mediterranean salads, these bean-filled dishes are sure to satisfy any appetite. Explore international flavors like Cajun-inspired sausages and Mexican-style dips, or indulge in comfort food classics like slow-cooked chili and baked beans with bacon. Whether you’re a vegetarian, meat-lover, or just looking for new ideas, this collection of Camellia bean recipes has something for everyone.
Leave a Reply