Bean Bread
A hearty cornmeal bread infused with creamy pinto beans, offering a satisfying texture and flavor, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the dry ingredients (cornmeal, salt, baking powder) and add milk and eggs.
- Stir in the cooked pinto beans.
- Pour the mixture into a greased pan.
- Bake at 450°F for about 20 minutes or until brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister bread, consider adding a tablespoon of melted butter or olive oil to the wet ingredients. You can substitute the pinto beans with black beans or even lentils if desired. For a spicier kick, mix in some diced jalapeños. Ensure the cornmeal is fine-ground for a smoother texture, as this will help the bread rise better during baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of honey for a sweet-savory contrast. This bean bread pairs beautifully with a fresh Fall Salad or a hearty bowl of chili. It also makes a great side for grilled meats or roasted vegetables, enhancing any meal with its unique flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bean bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F until warmed through. For a quick option, you can microwave individual pieces for about 30 seconds or until hot, though this may make the bread a bit softer.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bean Bread contains roughly 134 calories, with 4g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2563mg per serving (111% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of beans in this recipe?
Yes, you can use various beans like black beans, kidney beans, or even white beans. Just ensure they are cooked and drained properly. Each type will add a slightly different flavor and texture, so choose based on your preference.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of the bread?
You can enhance the flavor by adding spices like cumin or paprika, or even some chopped herbs such as cilantro or parsley. You might also consider mixing in cheese for a savory twist, which can complement the beans well.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this bean bread is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat products. It's a great option for those following vegetarian recipes, providing protein and fiber from the beans and a hearty texture from the cornmeal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).