This Western Beans recipe is a comforting, one-pot meal that combines the smoky richness of bacon with the earthy depth of lentils and beans. The dish features a robust tomato-based sauce seasoned with cumin, chili powder, and garlic, creating a warm and inviting flavor profile. It is thick, savory, and satisfying, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. The combination of dried lentils and canned beans provides a hearty texture that holds up well to slow simmering. Simple to prepare with pantry staples, this dish delivers a classic American home-cooked taste that pairs wonderfully with cornbread or rice.
Western Beans
Description
This Western Beans recipe is a comforting, one-pot meal that combines the smoky richness of bacon with the earthy depth of lentils and beans. The dish features a robust tomato-based sauce seasoned with cumin, chili powder, and garlic, creating a warm and inviting flavor profile. It is thick, savory, and satisfying, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. The combination of dried lentils and canned beans provides a hearty texture that holds up well to slow simmering. Simple to prepare with pantry staples, this dish delivers a classic American home-cooked taste that pairs wonderfully with cornbread or rice.Ingredients
Directions
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In a heavy 3-quart saucepan, fry the diced bacon over medium heat until crisp and the fat has rendered.
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Add the chopped onion to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and transparent.
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Stir in the dry lentils, water, ketchup, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, red pepper flakes, and bay leaf.
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Add the whole tomatoes, crushing them slightly with a spoon as you add them, along with the drained pinto and kidney beans.
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Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover.
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Simmer for 45 minutes, or until the lentils are tender, stirring once or twice to prevent sticking.
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Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 10
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 690.3kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 44.7g69%
- Saturated Fat 14.4g72%
- Cholesterol 46.0mg16%
- Sodium 1874.2mg79%
- Total Carbohydrate 34.3g12%
- Dietary Fiber 10.5g42%
- Sugars 6.4g
- Protein 42.5g85%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For a vegan version, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of water, adding a tablespoon of olive oil for frying the onions.
The flavors improve after sitting; this dish tastes even better the next day.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
If the mixture becomes too thick during simmering, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
