northern beans recipe

The Best northern beans recipe

Northern Beans with Cornbread

4.9 from 525 votes

A hearty, traditional dish featuring tender northern beans simmered with onions, garlic, and spices, served with a crispy cornbread topping. Perfect for a comforting meal.

🖨️ Print Recipe📌 Pin Recipe❤️ Add to Collection

Prep Time20 mins

Cook Time1 hour 15 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time1 hour 35 mins

Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Beans

• 2 cups dried northern beans (or 4 cups cooked)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Cornbread

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1
   Soak the dried northern beans overnight in plenty of water. Drain and rinse before using.
2. 2
   In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and minced garlic until soft (about 5 mins). Add thyme, smoked paprika, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. 3
   Add the drained beans, broth, and corn kernels to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45–60 minutes, or until beans are tender. Season with salt and pepper if needed.
4. 4
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, mix melted butter, milk, egg, and cheese (if using). Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. 5
   Pour the cornbread batter into a greased 8×8-inch baking dish. Place the bean mixture on top, spreading evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

🔧Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Oven
• Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18💛Saturated Fat: 8❤️Cholesterol: 45🧂Sodium: 850🌾Total Carbs: 60🥦Dietary Fiber: 10🍬Sugars: 6🥩Protein: 20

📝Notes

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of cumin or a splash of hot sauce to the bean mixture.
• Substitute vegetable broth for beef broth if preferred.
• Make ahead: The bean mixture can be prepped and refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Northern Beans with Cornbread

1. What is the difference between northern beans and other types of beans like kidney beans or black beans?
Northern beans, also known as pinto beans, are a type of dry bean that are commonly used in Mexican cuisine. They have a distinct creamy white or tan color with a speckled pattern, giving them their name. Unlike kidney beans, which are reddish-brown and often used in salads or soups, or black beans, which are deep black and widely used in burritos and salads, northern beans are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. They have a mild flavor and a soft texture when cooked, making them a popular choice for soups, stews, refried beans, and even as a side dish.

2. How do I prepare northern beans for cooking?
To prepare northern beans for cooking, start by rinsing them thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. If you’re using dried beans, soak them overnight in plenty of water (about 2 cups of water per cup of beans). For quicker cooking, you can use the quick-soak method: bring water to a boil, add the beans, boil for 2 minutes, then let them sit covered for about 1 hour. After soaking, drain and rinse the beans. They can then be used directly in recipes like soups, stews, or refried beans.

3. Can I use canned northern beans instead of dried ones?
Yes, you can use canned northern beans, but they might not be as flavorful as dried beans because they often contain added salt and preservatives. If you choose canned beans, drain and rinse them well to reduce the sodium content. However, canned beans can be a convenient option if you’re short on time or don’t have dried beans on hand. Some recipes might benefit from adding a splash of vinegar or a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.

4. What are some common dishes that use northern beans in Mexican cuisine?
Northern beans are a staple in Mexican cooking and are used in many traditional dishes. Some common recipes include:
– Refried beans (frijoles refritos): A creamy, mashed version of beans, often used as a side dish or topping for tacos.
– Chiles rellenos: Stuffed peppers filled with a mixture that can include beans, cheese, and other ingredients.
– Enchiladas: Beans are sometimes used as a filling or mixed into the sauce for enchiladas.
– Sopes or quesadillas: Northern beans are often mixed with cheese and other toppings for a delicious quesadilla or sopa de tortilla.
– Bean soups: Such as the classic Mexican soup known as “sopa de frijoles,” which can be made with northern beans.

5. How do I make refried beans with northern beans?
To make refried beans with northern beans, follow these steps:
– Cook the beans (either dried or canned) until they are soft and tender. If using dried beans, cook them in water with a pinch of salt until they are fully tender.
– Drain and rinse the beans, then transfer them to a food processor or blender.
– Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of oil or lard, along with a splash of water or broth, to help the beans blend smoothly.
– Process the beans until they are finely mashed but still slightly chunky. If needed, add more water or broth to achieve the desired consistency.
– Heat the refried beans gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they are warm and creamy.
– Season with salt, cumin, or other spices to taste. Some recipes also include garlic, onions, or chili powder for added flavor.
– Serve the refried beans as a side dish or use them as a filling for tacos, quesadillas, or other dishes.