Mexicali Bean Spread

Prep: 5 min Serves: 2 Cuisine: Mexican

A vibrant, smoky bean spread with cumin and oregano, perfect for dipping with tortilla chips and adding bold flavors to any snack or appetizer platter.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 c. cooked red kidney beans
  • 3 Tbsp. water
  • 1 Tbsp. tomato paste
  • 1 Tbsp. lemon juice
  • 1 tsp. ground cumin
  • 3/4 tsp. dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp. hot red pepper sauce

Instructions

  1. In a food processor or blender, mix all ingredients together for about 1 minute or until smooth.
  2. Serve with tortilla chips.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, add a tablespoon of olive oil or a splash of vegetable broth when blending. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the hot red pepper sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can substitute red kidney beans with black beans or pinto beans if needed. This spread also works great as a filling in wraps or as a layer in dishes like Mark'S Vegetarian Chili.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Mexicali Bean Spread with crispy tortilla chips for dipping. It pairs wonderfully with fresh veggies like carrots and bell peppers. For a complete meal, serve alongside a refreshing Gazpacho (Mexican Soup, Cold) or as a filling in a wrap. This spread also makes a fantastic appetizer at parties, especially when accompanied by Mexican recipes like Salsa Guadalajhara.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover Mexicali Bean Spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can enjoy it cold as a dip with tortilla chips or veggies for a refreshing snack.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Mexicali Bean Spread contains roughly 133 calories, with 5g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (80% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (63% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 12g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

133 kcal 7% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.4g 11% DV
Total Fat 3.8g 5% DV
Carbs 27.6g 10% DV
Fiber 12g 43% DV
Sugar 6.6g 13% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 69.9mg 3% DV
Potassium 1515mg 32% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 71mcg 8% DV
Vitamin C 56.7mg 63% DV
Calcium 448.6mg 35% DV
Iron 14.4mg 80% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 make this bean spread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Mexicali Bean Spread up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld and improve over time. Just give it a good stir before serving to redistribute any liquids that may have settled.

Is this spread suitable for vegans?

Absolutely! The Mexicali Bean Spread is entirely plant-based, making it a great choice for vegans. With its wholesome ingredients and rich flavors, it’s a delicious and healthy option for anyone following vegan recipes or simply looking to enjoy a nutritious snack.

How can I adjust the spice level of this recipe?

To adjust the spice level, you can modify the amount of hot red pepper sauce based on your preference. Start with a smaller amount and taste as you blend, then gradually add more until you reach your desired heat. Alternatively, for a milder version, skip the hot sauce altogether or use a milder salsa.

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).

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