These beans are spicy, tangy, and delicious. Swiss Chard adds both balancing flavor and cancer-fighting nutrition. These beans are based on a variation in Mark Bittman’s “How to Cook Everything.” The recipe’s name is both a nod to the Mexican spices involved and what popped out of my husband’s mouth when I told him he needed to name a recipe involving beans and Swiss Chard (he was unaware that Doctors Without Borders is French-based, not Swiss). Serve with rice or a whole grain for complete protein.
Total Time: 30 minutes
Work Time: 15 minutes
Serves: 2 as a main course (easily doubled)
1 onion, diced
1 T olive oil
1-2 bunches swiss chard, washed and coarsely chopped
1 14.5 ounce can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 bay leaf
2 cloves
3 peppercorns (or more, to taste)
1-2 t dried thyme leaves
chili powder, to taste
salt and pepper to taste
1) Heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add onion and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly until onion begins to caramelize. (Meanwhile, prep the chard and gather other ingredients).
2) Raise heat to medium-high. Add chard and sprinkle lightly with salt.
3) Stir. When chard begins to cook down, add beans and spices.
4) Salt and pepper to taste. Remove bay leaf. Serve.