Name: Creamy White Beans with Kale and Wild Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Ingredients: 1 cup wild rice; 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth (or water for Instant Pot method); 1 yellow onion, diced; 1/3 cup water; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, minced; 1 can (13.5-ounce) lite coconut milk; 1 tablespoon white or yellow miso paste; 1/4 cup tomato sauce; 3 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 cans (15-ounce) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; Black pepper to taste; 6-8 cups shredded Tuscan kale (lacinato), tough stems removed

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy White Beans with Kale and Wild Rice is a delicious and nourishing dish. It’s perfect for any meal, whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch or a comforting dinner. This recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients. The combination of creamy beans, hearty kale, and wild rice creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s vegetarian and adaptable, making it great for different dietary needs.

How to Make Creamy White Beans with Kale and Wild Rice

Ingredients:

1 cup wild rice
1 1/2 cups vegetable broth (or water for Instant Pot method)
1 yellow onion, diced
1/3 cup water
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, minced
1 can (13.5-ounce) lite coconut milk
1 tablespoon white or yellow miso paste
1/4 cup tomato sauce
3 tablespoons tomato paste
2 cans (15-ounce) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
1 teaspoon kosher salt
Black pepper to taste
6-8 cups shredded Tuscan kale (lacinato), tough stems removed

Directions:

Make the Wild Rice (Instant Pot method): Add the wild rice and 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth to the inner pot of the Instant Pot. Secure the lid and select the Pressure Cook/Manual setting for 25 minutes. Allow a natural pressure release and drain off any remaining liquid.
Make the Wild Rice (Stovetop method): Place wild rice and 3 cups of vegetable broth in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes, or until kernels have burst open. Drain any remaining liquid.
While the rice is cooking, heat a deep nonstick pan over medium heat, add diced onion and a pinch of salt, and stir for 1 minute. Add 1/3 cup water, bring to a simmer, and cook for 5 minutes until onion is soft.
Add minced garlic and thyme, stirring frequently for 2-3 minutes. Stir in coconut milk, miso, tomato sauce, tomato paste, beans, cumin, paprika, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper.
Add kale, stir to combine, and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes until thickened and creamy. Serve on top of the cooked wild rice.

How to Serve Creamy White Beans with Kale and Wild Rice

Serve this dish hot, right after cooking. You can add extra chili flakes on top if you like it spicy, or garnish with fresh herbs for extra flavor. It pairs well with a side salad or some crusty bread.

How to Store Creamy White Beans with Kale and Wild Rice

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish will stay good for about 3 to 4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove. If it thickens while storing, add a little water or broth when reheating to bring back its creamy texture.

Tips to Make Creamy White Beans with Kale and Wild Rice

If you need a quicker option, use instant wild rice or pre-cooked rice.
Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Adjust the spices based on your taste. You can add more chili flakes if you enjoy spicy food.

Variation

You can easily customize this dish. Try using different beans like navy beans or black beans. You can also swap kale for spinach or collard greens. For a non-vegan option, add some cooked sausage or chicken.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the creamy bean and kale mixture ahead of time. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

2. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in a proper container. Just thaw and reheat before serving.