Anasazi beans are a beautiful heirloom variety known for their striking maroon and white color and their rich, slightly sweet flavor. Named after the ancient Native American civilization of the same name, these beans have a deep cultural and culinary history. They are prized not only for their nutritional benefits being high in protein, fiber, and iron but also for their ability to cook more quickly than many other dried beans. Anasazi beans are versatile and can be used in soups, stews, salads, or as a satisfying main dish. Cooking them from scratch is straightforward and rewarding, especially when enhanced with the right seasonings and techniques.
What Are Anasazi Beans?
Anasazi beans are a variety of Phaseolus vulgaris, the common bean, and are native to the American Southwest. With their speckled appearance and earthy flavor, they stand out in the world of legumes. They’re similar in texture to pinto beans but with a slightly sweeter and less gassy profile, making them easier to digest for some people.
Why Use Anasazi Beans?
There are several reasons to add Anasazi beans to your pantry:
- They cook faster than other dry beans typically in 60-90 minutes without soaking.
- They hold their shape well, making them ideal for salads and chili.
- They have a naturally sweet and nutty flavor, which pairs well with a variety of spices and herbs.
Basic Recipe for Anasazi Beans
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried Anasazi beans
- 3 cups water or broth
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon salt (added toward the end of cooking)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (optional)
- Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Rinse and Sort the Beans
Place the dried beans in a colander and rinse them under cool water. Remove any debris or damaged beans. Although soaking is optional with Anasazi beans, you can soak them for 4-6 hours to reduce cooking time even further.
Step 2: Cook the Beans
In a large pot, combine the beans with water or broth. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface during the first 15 minutes.
Step 3: Simmer Until Tender
Continue to simmer for 60-90 minutes, or until the beans are tender but not mushy. Add more water if needed to keep the beans covered. When the beans are nearly done, stir in the salt and olive oil or butter if using. Adding salt too early can toughen the beans’ skins.
Step 4: Add Herbs and Serve
Once cooked, remove the bay leaf and stir in chopped fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm as a side dish or use in other recipes such as chili, burritos, or salads.
Flavor Variations and Add-ins
Spicy Southwest Style
For a bold flavor, try adding these ingredients during cooking:
- 1 chopped jalapeño or green chili
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
Serve with rice, tortillas, or cornbread for a hearty meal.
Herb and Lemon Infused Beans
Add fresh or dried rosemary, thyme, or oregano while cooking. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and zest just before serving for a bright, aromatic variation.
Tomato and Garlic Stewed Beans
After the beans are mostly tender, stir in a can of crushed tomatoes, a pinch of sugar, and a dash of balsamic vinegar. Simmer for another 15 minutes to blend the flavors. This works beautifully over toast or with roasted vegetables.
Using Cooked Anasazi Beans in Recipes
Hearty Anasazi Bean Chili
Use your cooked beans in place of other beans in your favorite chili recipe. Their texture and mild sweetness pair well with ground beef, turkey, or roasted vegetables.
Anasazi Bean Salad
Let the beans cool, then mix with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.
Burrito or Taco Filling
Lightly mash the beans and mix with sautéed onions and spices for a delicious taco or burrito filling. Top with salsa, avocado, or cheese as desired.
How to Store Cooked Anasazi Beans
Refrigerating
Store cooled beans in an airtight container with a bit of their cooking liquid. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to five days.
Freezing
Cooked Anasazi beans freeze well. Divide into portions and freeze in containers or freezer bags. They can be reheated directly from frozen or thawed overnight in the fridge.
Tips for Perfect Anasazi Beans
- Don’t add acidic ingredients like tomatoes or vinegar until the beans are nearly tender they can slow the cooking process.
- If you’re using a pressure cooker or Instant Pot, you can cook Anasazi beans in about 25-30 minutes without pre-soaking.
- Keep an eye on the liquid level. Beans should stay submerged during cooking for even results.
- Add salt late in the cooking process for the best texture.
Where to Find Anasazi Beans
While not as common as black beans or kidney beans, Anasazi beans are increasingly available at health food stores, specialty markets, or online. When buying, look for beans that are smooth, clean, and not cracked. Because they’re an heirloom variety, purchasing from sustainable or organic sources supports biodiversity and responsible farming practices.
Learning how to cook Anasazi beans opens up a world of nourishing, flavorful dishes. Their quick cooking time, creamy texture, and subtle sweetness make them an excellent addition to any kitchen. Whether served simply with garlic and herbs or transformed into a spicy chili or zesty salad, Anasazi beans are as versatile as they are delicious. By mastering the basic recipe and experimenting with different seasonings and dishes, you’ll find endless ways to enjoy this unique and wholesome legume. With each batch, you can celebrate both tradition and creativity one satisfying spoonful at a time.