Recipes with Ranch Style Beans: A Culinary Exploration
Introduction
Ranch style beans have become a staple in many households, offering a unique twist to the traditional baked beans. This dish, characterized by its creamy texture and tangy flavor, is a delightful addition to any meal. In this article, we will delve into the origins of ranch style beans, explore their nutritional benefits, and provide a variety of recipes that will satisfy your taste buds.
The Origin of Ranch Style Beans
Ranch style beans trace their roots back to the 1940s, when they were created by a chef at the Holiday Inn in San Antonio, Texas. The dish was inspired by the popular ranch dressing of the time, which was a blend of mayonnaise, buttermilk, and spices. The chef decided to incorporate this dressing into a baked bean recipe, resulting in the creation of the iconic ranch style beans we know today.
Nutritional Benefits of Ranch Style Beans
Ranch style beans are not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Beans are an excellent source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They help to regulate blood sugar levels, lower cholesterol, and improve digestion. Additionally, the addition of spices such as garlic, onion, and cumin can boost the flavor and provide additional health benefits.
Recipe 1: Classic Ranch Style Beans
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1/2 cup onion, chopped
– 1/4 cup green bell pepper, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup chopped parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the kidney beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, onion, green bell pepper, and garlic.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the ketchup, barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, water, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
4. Pour the sauce mixture over the beans and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the bean mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, and sour cream.
7. Spread the mayonnaise mixture evenly over the bean mixture.
8. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and chopped parsley on top.
9. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the beans are heated through and the top is golden brown.
10. Serve warm and enjoy!
Recipe 2: Spicy Ranch Style Beans
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1/2 cup onion, chopped
– 1/4 cup green bell pepper, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup chopped parsley
Instructions:
Follow the same instructions as Recipe 1, but add an additional 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture for a spicier flavor.
Conclusion
Ranch style beans have become a beloved dish in many households, offering a unique and flavorful twist to the traditional baked beans. With their rich history, nutritional benefits, and versatility, these beans are sure to continue captivating taste buds for years to come. Whether you prefer the classic recipe or a spicy variation, these recipes will surely satisfy your cravings and add a touch of elegance to any meal.
