Red bean substitutes
Red bean substitutes — 3 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Kidney beans
Same amount as the red bean
Similar bean with different size.
The best substitutes for red beans are kidney beans, pinto beans, or adzuki beans, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- cooking
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of red bean | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kidney beanscooking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Pinto beanscooking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Adzuki beanscooking | Same amountWorks | Works |
Kidney beans
similar taste and texture
Similar bean with different size.
- Best for
- cooking, soups, stews, salads
Different size, similar flavor - larger.
Pinto beans
similar taste and texture
Similar bean with different color.
- Best for
- cooking, soups, stews, salads
Different color, similar flavor - brown.
Adzuki beans
similar taste and texture
Similar bean with different source.
- Best for
- cooking, soups, stews, desserts
Different source, similar flavor - Asian variety.
Questions
3 questionsCan I use kidney beans instead of red beans?
Yes, kidney beans are a good substitute for red beans, but they're larger and have a slightly different texture.
What's the difference between red beans and kidney beans?
Red beans are smaller and have a sweeter flavor, while kidney beans are larger and have a more robust flavor.
Can I use red beans in desserts?
Yes, red beans are commonly used in Asian desserts, especially in sweet bean paste and ice cream.
Tips for substituting red bean
4 tips- Red beans are sweet and nutty, good for both savory and sweet dishes
- They're commonly used in Southern cooking, especially red beans and rice
- Red beans are high in protein and fiber
- They pair well with rice, vegetables, and spices