How to Make a Simple Pot of Anasazi Beans

Discover the perfect way to savor the rich, earthy flavor of heritage Anasazi beans with this simple, foolproof recipe. Packed with wholesome ingredients like tender beans, sautéed onions, fragrant garlic, and a hint of smoked paprika, this dish comes together with minimal effort and maximum comfort. Soaked for optimal creaminess and simmered to perfection with a bay leaf for depth, these beans are as versatile as they are delicious. Whether served as a warm side dish or a flavorful base for soups, salads, and chilis, this recipe is an excellent introduction to cooking with heirloom beans. With just 10 minutes of prep time and a pot full of nourishing, plant-based goodness, you’ll have a wholesome, protein-rich dish that’s sure to delight the whole family. Perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike, this is your go-to guide for mastering Anasazi beans!

Nutriscore Rating: 75/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:90 mins

Total Time:100 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Anasazi beans
• 4 cups Water
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 medium, diced Onion
• 2 cloves, minced Garlic
• 1 Bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoons Black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoons Smoked paprika (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the Anasazi beans thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris or dirt.

Step 2

Place the beans in a large bowl and cover them with water. Soak for 6-8 hours or overnight for best results. If short on time, use the quick soak method by bringing the beans to a boil for 2 minutes, then letting them sit, covered, for 1 hour.

Step 3

Drain and rinse the beans once soaked.

Step 4

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

Step 5

Add the diced onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent.

Step 6

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 7

Add the soaked and rinsed beans, 4 cups of water, and the bay leaf to the pot.

Step 8

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 60-90 minutes, stirring occasionally. Check for doneness around the 60-minute mark. The beans should be tender but not mushy.

Step 9

Once the beans are cooked, stir in the salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 10

Remove and discard the bay leaf before serving.

Step 11

Serve warm as a side dish or use in other recipes like soups, salads, or chili.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1353.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1028.9

Total Fat 30.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 4.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2420.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 143.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 33.2g	0%
Total Sugars 11.5g
Protein 46.8g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 407.1mg	0%
Iron 11.4mg	0%
Potassium 3012.9mg	0%

*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: 26.7%

Protein: 18.0%

Carbs: 55.3%