Peter’S Adzuki Bean Casserole

This unique Mediterranean-inspired casserole transforms humble adzuki beans into a hearty, satisfying main dish. The combination of earthy beans, sweet Granny Smith apples, and savory aromatics creates a complex flavor profile that is both comforting and surprising. The apples soften during baking, adding a subtle sweetness that balances the salty umami from the tamari. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special plant-based gathering, this dish is simple to prepare yet impressive in its depth of flavor. Its a wonderful way to showcase the versatility of Asian beans in Western-style cooking, offering a nutritious, fiber-rich meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Cooking Method: Baking, Boiling, Sautéing

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Courses: Main Courses

Difficulty: Advanced

Servings: 4

Calories: 65.7

Dietary: Vegan, Vegetarian

Description

This unique Mediterranean-inspired casserole transforms humble adzuki beans into a hearty, satisfying main dish. The combination of earthy beans, sweet Granny Smith apples, and savory aromatics creates a complex flavor profile that is both comforting and surprising. The apples soften during baking, adding a subtle sweetness that balances the salty umami from the tamari. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special plant-based gathering, this dish is simple to prepare yet impressive in its depth of flavor. Its a wonderful way to showcase the versatility of Asian beans in Western-style cooking, offering a nutritious, fiber-rich meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Ingredients

1 cup Dried adzuki beans
1 teaspoon Olive oil
1 medium Onion, chopped
2 medium Granny Smith Apples, cored and chopped
1 medium Green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
1 leaf Bay leaf
1/4 teaspoon Dried basil
1/2 teaspoon Sea salt
1/2 teaspoon Tamari or Soy sauce

Directions

1
Soak dried adzuki beans in 3 cups of cold water for 24 hours, or use a quick-soak method by covering with boiling water and letting stand for 2 hours.
2
Drain and rinse the soaked beans thoroughly.
3
Place beans in a saucepan, cover with 2 cups of fresh water, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes or until tender.
4
While beans cook, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and saut for 1 minute.
5
Add the chopped green bell pepper to the skillet and saut for another minute.
6
Add the chopped apples to the skillet and continue sauting until the onions are translucent and apples begin to soften.
7
Drain the cooked beans completely.
8
In a large bowl, combine the drained beans with the vegetable mixture.
9
Season the mixture with dried basil, sea salt, and tamari or soy sauce. Toss gently to combine.
10
Preheat oven to 375F (190C). Lightly oil a small casserole dish.
11
Transfer the bean mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
12
Press the bay leaf into the top of the beans.
13
Bake uncovered for 45 minutes.
14
Remove from oven and discard the bay leaf before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 65.7kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 1.5g3%
Saturated Fat 0.2g1%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 5.1mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 13.5g5%
Dietary Fiber 3.2g13%
Sugars 8.0g
Protein 1.5g3%

* 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 best results, soak the beans overnight. If you are short on time, the quick-soak method works well but may result in slightly less tender beans.

This casserole tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serve with brown rice, quinoa, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.

You can adjust the saltiness by adding more tamari or soy sauce to taste.

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Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/peters-adzuki-bean-casserole/