African Red Beans

Dive into the bold and comforting flavors of African Red Beans, a hearty plant-based dish that combines the rich creaminess of coconut milk with the earthy spices of cumin, smoked paprika, and curry powder. This one-pot recipe features tender red beans simmered to perfection with a fragrant medley of garlic, ginger, and tomatoes, creating a deeply satisfying meal that's both nourishing and packed with flavor. Ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep, it's effortlessly versatile—serve it over steamed rice, pair it with crusty bread, or enjoy it solo with a squeeze of fresh lime for a zesty finish. This authentic and wholesome recipe is a celebration of vibrant African-inspired cuisine, perfect for anyone seeking a delicious, healthy, and comforting meal.

Nutriscore Rating: 76/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:90 mins

Total Time:105 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups dried red beans
• 6 cups water
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 cups tomatoes, diced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)
• 4 servings cooked rice or bread (optional, for serving)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the dried red beans thoroughly and soak them overnight in water. Drain and rinse the beans before cooking.

Step 2

In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water to a simmer. Add the soaked beans and cook over medium heat until tender, about 60–75 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 3

In a separate large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

Step 4

Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 5

Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 6

Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, ground cumin, smoked paprika, curry powder, and salt. Stir well to combine and let cook for 5–7 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and the spices to blend.

Step 7

Gently fold in the cooked red beans and mix to coat them in the tomato mixture.

Step 8

Pour in the coconut milk and stir well. Allow the mixture to simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld together.

Step 9

Adjust seasoning with additional salt or cayenne pepper if desired.

Step 10

Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro.

Step 11

Serve hot with lime wedges on the side and enjoy with cooked rice or bread if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	3237 grams (3237.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2505

Total Fat 46.50g	60%
Saturated Fat 7.20g	36%
Polyunsaturated Fat 25.20g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 3205mg	139%
Total Carbohydrate 425.10g	155%
Dietary Fiber 74.20g	265%
Total Sugars 49.40g
Protein 110.10g	220%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 614mg	47%
Iron 28mg	155%
Potassium 7693mg	164%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 16.4%

Protein: 17.2%

Carbs: 66.4%