Crockpot Beans
Simple, hearty, and full of flavour with minimal effort.
These Crockpot Beans are a no-fuss, delicious side dish or main course that's perfect for busy days. Let your slow cooker do all the work as beans simmer in a savoury broth with spices, garlic, and onions. This dish is comforting, nutritious, and versatile—serve it with cornbread, rice, or as a filling for tacos or wraps.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups dried beans (pinto, black, kidney, or a mix)
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
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Prepare the Beans: Rinse the dried beans under cold water, removing any debris. Optional: soak the beans in water overnight to reduce cooking time (skip this step if you’re in a hurry).
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Add to Crockpot: Place the rinsed (and soaked, if applicable) beans into the crockpot. Add the vegetable or chicken broth, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, chili powder, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
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Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the beans are tender and the flavours have melded together.
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Season: Once the beans are cooked, remove the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness if desired.
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Serve: Enjoy the beans on their own, as a side dish, or paired with rice, cornbread, or tacos.
These Crockpot Beans are the perfect dish for easy, hands-off cooking. The slow simmer allows the flavours to develop and the beans to become tender and creamy. It’s a budget-friendly meal that’s filling and perfect for meal prep!
Optional Additions:
- For Extra Flavour: Add diced tomatoes or a splash of lime juice before serving.
- Make It Smoky: Stir in a little liquid smoke for a smoky depth of flavour.
- Add Protein: Add cooked bacon, sausage, or shredded chicken for a heartier meal.