Mock Swedish Brown Beans
A sweet and savory side dish featuring tender red kidney beans simmered in brown sugar, vinegar, and cinnamon, perfect for hearty meals or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the red kidney beans, brown sugar, vinegar, cinnamon, butter, and cornstarch in a saucepan.
- Simmer the mixture for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Cook until lightly thickened, then add salt to taste and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of maple syrup alongside the brown sugar. If you don’t have cornstarch, you can substitute with flour or arrowroot powder, but adjust the amount accordingly. To reduce cooking time, you can use pre-cooked beans or canned beans that are well-drained. This dish is perfect as a side for hearty vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It can also be served alongside grilled meats for a heartier option. Consider topping it with chopped fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor. It’s a great accompaniment to dishes like Chocolate Souffle for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the mixture thickens too much. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mock Swedish Brown Beans contains roughly 365 calories, with 1g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of iron (10% 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 other types of beans for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute red kidney beans with other beans like pinto or black beans. Just ensure they are cooked through if using dried beans. Each type of bean will bring a different flavor and texture to the dish, so feel free to experiment.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be made in advance. Just prepare it as directed, let it cool, and store in individual portions. It’s perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider including diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when mixing the ingredients. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side for those who prefer a little extra kick.
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).