Kidney Bean Sauce
A hearty and flavorful kidney bean sauce with rich tomato and aromatic herbs, perfect for satisfying vegetarian or meat-eating families alike. Great over rice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and soak the kidney beans overnight.
- In a medium-sized pot, add 4 cups water, oil, chopped onions, minced garlic, and salt. Bring to a boil.
- In a bowl, mix the tomato paste, tomato sauce, and 1/2 cup water until smooth.
- Add the tomato mixture to the pot and cook under medium heat for about 1 1/2 hours, until the beans are tender.
- Cut up the green pepper and thyme.
- Add the green pepper and thyme to the pot and let simmer.
- Add a pinch of sugar, if desired, and stir.
- Serve the kidney bean sauce over rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider mashing some of the beans before serving. If you're short on time, canned kidney beans can be used; just reduce the cooking time. Substitute the green pepper with any bell pepper or omit it for a simpler flavor. Adding a dash of hot sauce can enhance the sauce's flavor if you enjoy heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the kidney bean sauce over steamed rice for a hearty meal. It pairs wonderfully with Rice With Corn And Carrots for added texture and flavor. For a fresh contrast, consider a side of Sliced Tomatoes With Basil Salad. This dish is also great for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover kidney bean sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. If the sauce thickens, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kidney Bean Sauce contains roughly 797 calories, with 35g protein, 111g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (295% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (145% of the Daily Value), and iron (96% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 41g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 other types of beans instead of kidney beans?
Yes, you can substitute kidney beans with black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as different beans may require varying lengths of time to become tender.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add spice, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You could also serve the kidney bean sauce with hot sauce on the side, allowing everyone to adjust the heat to their preference.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! This kidney bean sauce is entirely plant-based, making it a perfect option for vegan diets. It's packed with protein and fiber, ensuring a satisfying meal without any animal products.
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).