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Creamy Beans

Creamy Beans

Creamy Beans is a comforting and versatile dish featuring smooth, flavorful white beans cooked to a luscious, velvety texture. With simple everyday ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is perfect as a side, main dish, or creamy spread. Ready in under an hour, it’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying comfort food classic.

Ingredients

Scale

Beans

  • 1 cup dry white beans (cannellini or navy) or 2 cans (15 oz each) of white beans, rinsed and drained

Aromatics

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

Liquids & Seasoning

  • 2 to 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beans: If using dry beans, soak them overnight in plenty of water to reduce cooking time and ensure even cooking. If using canned beans, rinse and drain them thoroughly to remove excess sodium and canning liquid for a fresher taste.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This forms a flavorful base for the dish.
  3. Cook the Beans: Add the prepared beans to the aromatics along with vegetable or chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook until beans are tender and mashable—approximately 30-40 minutes for dry beans or 10-15 minutes for canned beans. This slow simmer melds the flavors beautifully.
  4. Mash and Blend: Use a potato masher or immersion blender to create a smooth, creamy consistency. For extra silkiness, add a splash more broth or olive oil while blending. This step transforms the beans into a luscious, comforting dish.
  5. Season and Finish: Add salt, black pepper, and a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to brighten the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed to achieve a perfect balance of savory and tangy notes.

Notes

  • Soak dry beans thoroughly to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.
  • Choose white beans like cannellini or great northern for the creamiest texture.
  • Use fresh garlic and onions for the best flavor depth.
  • Avoid overcooking the beans to prevent mushiness.
  • Add broth gradually while blending to control creaminess.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy beans, white beans recipe, comfort food, healthy beans, easy side dish, vegan beans, gluten free beans