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Northern Beans Recipe

Northern Beans Healthy Recipe

5 from 1 vote
A simple, hearty, and nutritious northern beans recipe. Perfect as a soup, stew, or side dish, packed with protein, fiber, and flavor.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Spanish
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup northern beans dried, soaked overnight
  • 4 cups water
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 medium carrot diced (optional)
  • 1 stalk celery diced (optional)
  • 1 small bell pepper diced (optional)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes optional
  • 50 –75 g bacon or ham diced (optional)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Skillet
  • Mixing spoon
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Bowl for soaking beans (optional)

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Beans: Rinse beans. Soak overnight (optional). Canned beans can be rinsed and drained.
  2. Cook the Beans: Simmer beans in 4 cups water for 1–1.5 hours (dried) or 10–15 minutes (canned) until tender.
  3. Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil. Sauté onion, garlic, carrot, celery, and bell pepper until soft.
  4. Combine Beans and Vegetables: Add beans to vegetables. Stir in herbs, salt, and pepper. Add diced tomatoes or bacon if using. Simmer 10–15 minutes.
  5. Optional – Mash Some Beans: Mash a portion for creaminess while keeping some whole.
  6. Serve: Garnish with parsley or a drizzle of olive oil. Serve with bread, rice, or vegetables.

Notes

  • Freeze cooked beans in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat gently to maintain texture.
  • Adjust herbs and seasoning to taste.
  • Make vegetarian by omitting bacon or ham.
Northern Beans Recipe