How to make menestra aka Ecuadorian style beans

mixed vegetables

🥗Healthier: fresh seasonal vegetables

💰Cheaper: frozen mixed vegetables

Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and nutrition.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil has a higher smoke point and is heart-healthy.

vegetable broth

🥗Healthier: homemade vegetable stock

💰Cheaper: water with seasonings

Homemade stock is richer in flavor.

black pepper

🥗Healthier: white pepper

💰Cheaper: black pepper

White pepper provides a milder flavor.

Chop yellow bell pepper, onion, and small tomatoes into small pieces.

Heat olive oil in a small pot over medium heat.

Add chopped onion and yellow bell pepper; sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent.

Add chopped tomatoes and sauté for another 4 minutes.

Stir in garlic powder and Himalayan sea salt; mix well and sauté for 1 more minute.

Add the can of light red kidney beans along with the bean juice and about 1 can of water; mix well.

Let the mixture simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Mash the beans halfway with a potato masher or fork, depending on desired consistency.

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: