The Pulse on Cooking With Beans

The Best Bean Recipes from Around the World

Beans play a starring role in cultures and cuisines around the world. From soups to dips to plant-based burgers, the versatile bean has no limits. Simply put, beans can do it all, sweet, savory, frozen, canned, dry, full of fiber and packed with nutrients, beans are having a moment as they move from side dish to the center of the plate.

Try these recipes from the U.S. and around the world to explore the many ways to enjoy U.S. beans.

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Polenta with Beans and Peppers

This delicious take on a polenta recipe features black or red beans, peppers of all colors, and multiple spices for a flavorful, tasty dish.

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Quick & Easy Cassoulet

This easy bean casserole is full of flavor and feels like home. Just bake and serve with a thick slice of lightly buttered rye bread and a cold tossed salad. You can lower the sodium in this recipe by using low-sodium kielbasa and low-sodium beans and tomato sauce.

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Raisin Bean Muffins

This raisin bean muffin recipe is high in fiber and low in cholesterol – a great combo! Bean muffins are moist, flavorful and packed with protein. With cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, this recipe is full of spice and interesting flavor.

Red Bean Sweet Rolls stacked
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Red Bean Sweet Rolls

Sylvie Gruber, A Baking Journey
These Red Bean Sweet Rolls are like your favourite Cinnamon Rolls, but filled with Sweet Red Bean Paste instead — perfect for breakfast, brunch, morning and afternoon Tea!

Refried Pinto Beans close up
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Refried Pinto Beans

Palak Patel, The Chutney Life
These Refried Pinto Beans are great for enchiladas, or tacos, and can be made ahead of time if you’re on a meal prep kick!

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Santa Fe Cobb Salad

This Cobb Salad gets a Mexican twist with the addition of black beans, green pepper and jicama. Chicken, shrimp, or tofu are possible additions for this Santa Fe Cobb Salad recipe, offering an extra dose of protein and flavor. Topped with a delicious homemade lime cilantro vinaigrette dressing, this salad is delightfully refreshing.