Bean Swaps

SUBSTITUTES FOR BEANS

While every type of bean shines in its own way, most varieties are versatile enough that with a few adjustments, you can swap another one in and keep on cooking.

SO YOU WANTED TO MAKE:

BLACK BEAN SOUP

Black bean soup is a comforting classic with a hit of bright lime and garlic. Just about any bean can make a satisfying pureed bean soup if you rethink your flavors just a bit. Try white beans with rosemary or thyme, or pinto beans with sauteed carrots and tomato. Whatever you do, don’t skimp on the croutons.

HUMMUS

Traditionally made with chickpeas (also known as garbanzo beans) and tahini, hummus is a party-pleaser. But white bean dip can stand up to any chip. You can use any variety of white bean instead, such as great northern beans or cannellini beans. Rinse and strain the beans well, then pulse in a food processor or blender with lemon juice, salt and a splash of olive oil. 

QUESADILLAS

Adding protein and fiber to quesadillas with a couple of spoonfuls of black beans is easy. If you don’t have any on hand, try pinto beans or blackeye peas instead. They bring a slightly different flavor and texture, but pair just as well with melty cheese and salsa.

CHILI

Whether you like your chili with meat or without, you’re probably imagining it with plump, meaty kidney beans. But what if you added a secret ingredient to your tried-and-true chili recipe with one of Bush’s 15 varieties of Chili Beans and starters? Or perhaps take dinner in a whole new direction with Bush’s White Chicken Chili to bring out the best in white beans like great northern or cannellini beans.

SUBSTITUTES FOR OTHER INGREDIENTS

Beans can also play a starring role in place of other ingredients. We’ve got a few starting points for you, but let creativity be your guide!
 

GROUND MEAT

Taco Tuesday without taco meat? Sure. Cook up some black beans with your favorite taco seasoning instead. Are you dedicated to Meatless Monday, but craving burgers? Backyard Black Bean Burgers could be your new go-to.

PASTA OR POTATOES

When dinner just isn’t dinner without a comforting side dish, think white beans. Mashed cannellini beans or a butter bean salad will fill that spot on the plate. Or, if your soup calls for pasta or potatoes, add a can of great northern beans instead.

CROUTONS

Yes, croutons. A salad isn’t a salad without a little crunch on top. If you’re all out of croutons, drain a can of chickpeas and pat them dry, then roast with olive oil and salt until crispy.

Every cook has a trick or two up their sleeves for keeping dinner on track, even when plans have to change. A can of beans can be yours.