Okay, so I’ve been trying to eat healthier lately, and beans are a big part of that. But let’s be honest, just eating plain beans can get kinda boring, right? So I started experimenting with ways to make them more exciting and convenient, especially for quick snacks or easy meals.
Then, I had this idea: what if I could make bean purees and put them in those reusable squeeze pouches? You know, like the ones they make for babies but bigger! That way, I could just grab one from the fridge whenever I needed a healthy snack on the go. Turns out, it’s a pretty cool idea, and way easier than you might think!
First Try: White Bean and Herb
- Started with a can of cannellini beans, rinsed them real good.
- Threw them in my blender with a little bit of olive oil, some lemon juice, and a bunch of fresh herbs I had – parsley, a little rosemary, and a pinch of thyme.
- Blended it all up until it was smooth, added a bit of salt and pepper to taste.
- Spooned the mixture into the squeeze pouches. It was a little messy, but I got the hang of it.
- Tried one right away. It was pretty good! The herbs really made it tasty, and the texture was perfect for the pouches.
Experimenting with Flavors
After that first success, I got more adventurous. I tried different types of beans and flavor combinations:
- Made a spicy black bean puree with some chili powder, cumin, and a little bit of hot sauce. That one was my favorite for a while!
- Did a sweet version with chickpeas, some dates, a little almond butter, and a dash of cinnamon. It was almost like a healthy dessert.
- Tried a Mediterranean-inspired one with lentils, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and oregano. This one was great with some pita bread.
Honestly, the possibilities are endless. You can really play around with different spices, herbs, and even add-ins like roasted veggies or different kinds of nuts. And the best part is, these pouches are super convenient.
I started taking them with me to work, on hikes, or just keeping a few in the fridge for when I get hungry. They are great with some crackers or veggies. It’s such an easy way to get a healthy snack in, and way more satisfying than just eating plain beans. I definitely recommend giving this a try if you’re looking for a new way to enjoy your beans!
Just remember to store them properly in the fridge, and they should last for a few days. Give it a go, and let me know what your favorite flavor combinations are! Happy snacking!
