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Smoky bean and herb mash

This smoky bean and herb mash is like mashed potatoes’ earthy, protein-packed cousin. Soft white or pinto beans are gently simmered with garlic, olive oil, and herbs, then mashed until they’re creamy with just enough texture left to feel rustic. A pinch of smoked paprika ties it all together, giving the mash a subtle campfire depth that makes it taste like it’s been slow-cooked over coals.

Ingredients

2 cans beans (white beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic (peeled, minced)
1⁄2 teaspoon paprika (or to taste, smoked paprika, or sweet paprika if that´s what you have)
1 teaspoon herbs (dried thyme, sage or rosemary, or mix)
1⁄2 cup liquid (vegetable stock or water)
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1⁄2 teaspoon pepper (ground black pepper)

Instructions

In a medium pot, heat oil over medium. Add garlic, cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant. 

Stir in smoked paprika and herbs, cook another 30 seconds (don’t burn).

Add beans, salt, pepper, and the liquid. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to mash beans to your preferred texture (chunky or smooth).

Add more liquid as needed for a creamy consistency.

Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or smoked paprika. Serve warm.

Yield
4 servings
Nutrition: 180 calories per serving
Preparation time 10 minutes
Cooking time 15 minutes
Total time
25 minutes

Notes

It’s hearty, comforting, and surprisingly versatile: spoon it beside roasted squash and Three Sisters stew, spread it on a plate under sautéed greens, or use it as a cozy base for roasted vegetables. The flavors are simple but layered (garlicky, herby, a little smoky) and the result feels both familiar and a bit old-world, like something that could have easily sat on a harvest table centuries ago.

Source

North American cuisine

beans, herbs, simmering
side dish, holiday dish
North American food recipes
Food in U.S.A.

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