
Instant Pot Cuban Red Beans
As you know by now beans are a staple in Cuban cooking. I have introduced you to black beans, congri and white beans. Now we’re going to make Cuban red beans (frijoles colorodos). Yes, we are going to use the Instant Pot again because we LOVE it. Also, of course it saves so much time too. The chorizo and the hock in Cuban red beans gives it this smoky, hearty flavor that you’re going to love. Make sure to have some crusty Cuban bread (French bread if no Cuban). You’re going to want to dip the bread to soak up any runaway sauce.
Are Red Beans Good For You?
There are 3 main red bean varieties: red kidney beans, small red beans and adzuki beans.
The nutrition information given here will be focused on red kidney beans. They are an excellent source of protein but are also composed of carbohydrates and fiber.
Red kidney beans contain 9 grams of protein for every 3.5 ounces. This makes them one of the richest plant-based protein sources. Some people even refer to them as “the poor man’s meat”.
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Kidney beans also contain starchy carbs. However, bean starch is a slow release carb. Since it takes longer to digest it causes a low and gradual rise in blood sugar. This makes them perfect for people with type 2 diabetes.
They are also an excellent source of fiber. They contain 7-8 grams of fiber for every 1/2 cup. The beans skin is the source of insoluble fiber. Insoluble fiber promotes digestive health. As a bonus this high fiber food could help prevent some cancers. The antioxidants in beans help block free radical damage in our cells which leads to cancer.
They also can control blood pressure because they contain calcium, magnesium and potassium. Eating red beans can decrease heart disease because they contain high amounts of folate. Folate helps lower blood homocysteine levels.
For a full list of vitamins and mineral look here.
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