Beans are having a moment right now, thanks to surging grocery costs and a growing focus on plant-based nutrition. Beans are an affordable, shelf-stable, and fiber-packed alternative to meat that keeps you full. Along with the “bean renaissance,” there are several recipes that go from sweet to savory, but all are filled with fiber and protein. Here are just a few of the unique — and unusual — recipes you can use with beans.
Black Bean Brownies — Instead of flour, this recipe for brownies uses pureed black beans as the base. The beans create a dense, fudgy texture while adding protein and fiber. Many people can't even tell that beans are the main ingredient.
Navy Bean Ice Cream — In this recipe, cooked navy beans are blended with cream, sugar and vanilla to create a surprisingly smooth frozen dessert. The beans contribute a subtle nuttiness and extra creaminess.
Red Bean Shaved Ice — Popular in parts of East Asia, sweetened red beans are served on top of finely shaved ice with condensed milk and fruit. The combination of beans and dessert can seem unusual to people unfamiliar with it.
Bean Chocolate Truffles — Pureed black beans mixed with dark chocolate create rich truffles that look and taste surprisingly traditional despite their unusual ingredient list.
White Bean Cheesecake — White beans are blended into cheesecake batter to add creaminess and protein. The flavor is mild enough that most people only notice the smooth texture.
Bean Pizza Crust — Ground beans and bean flour can be used to make a pizza crust. While not entirely strange today, it still surprises many people who expect a traditional wheat base.
