Out of Red kidney bean, one case
Red kidney bean substitute
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Pinto beans
Same amount as the red kidney bean
The best substitutes for red kidney beans are pinto beans, black beans, or cannellini beans, depending on the use. Pinto beans are the closest match for flavor and texture, while black beans work well for color contrast.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- chili
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of red kidney bean | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pinto beanschili | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Black beanschili | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Cannellini beanssoups | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Navy beanssoups | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Cranberry beanssoups | Same amountWorks | Works |
Pinto beans
similar taste and texture
Brown beans with similar flavor and texture to red kidney beans. They're commonly used in Mexican and Southwestern cooking and work well in most dishes.
- Best for
- chili, soups, stews, salads, refried beans
Similar size and flavor, different color - brown instead of red.
Black beans
different taste, similar texture
Black beans with similar size and texture to red kidney beans. They provide a different color but work well in most savory dishes.
- Best for
- chili, soups, stews, salads, rice dishes
Different color but similar size and texture.
Cannellini beans
different taste, similar texture
White beans with similar size and creamy texture to red kidney beans. They're commonly used in Italian cooking and work well in most dishes.
- Best for
- soups, stews, salads, pasta dishes, Italian cooking
White beans with similar size and creamy texture.
Navy beans
different taste, similar texture
Cranberry beans
similar taste and texture
Speckled beans with similar flavor and texture to red kidney beans. They're commonly used in Italian cooking and have a creamy texture when cooked.
- Best for
- soups, stews, salads, Italian dishes, casseroles
Similar size and flavor, with speckled appearance.
How it behaves in this recipe
Red kidney beans are a staple in many cuisines around the world, particularly in chili, soups, and stews. They're also used in salads and rice dishes. The choice of substitute depends on the dish - pinto beans work well for Mexican dishes, black beans for color contrast, and cannellini beans for Italian dishes.
Tips for substituting red kidney bean
8 tips- Red kidney beans are large, red beans with a mild, slightly sweet flavor
- They're commonly used in chili, soups, stews, and salads
- Red kidney beans are high in protein and fiber
- They pair well with rice, vegetables, and spices
- Soak red kidney beans overnight before cooking to reduce cooking time
- Cook red kidney beans until tender but not mushy for best texture
- Red kidney beans are a staple in many cuisines around the world
- They can be used in both savory and sweet dishes
Notes on red kidney bean
- Use black beans for a different color but similar texture
- Try cannellini beans for a creamy texture in soups
- Use chickpeas for a different flavor profile but similar protein content
- Try black-eyed peas for a different texture and flavor
- Use lima beans for a different size but similar cooking properties
Questions
5 questionsWhat are red kidney beans and how are they used?
Red kidney beans are large, red beans with a mild, slightly sweet flavor. They're commonly used in chili, soups, stews, and salads. They're high in protein and fiber and are a staple in many cuisines around the world.
Can I use pinto beans instead of red kidney beans?
Yes, pinto beans are a good substitute for red kidney beans. They have a similar flavor and texture, though they're brown instead of red. They work well in most dishes that call for red kidney beans.
Are black beans a good substitute for red kidney beans?
Yes, black beans are a good substitute for red kidney beans. They have a similar size and texture, though they're black instead of red. They work well in most savory dishes and provide a different color contrast.
How do I cook red kidney beans properly?
Soak red kidney beans overnight, then cook them in fresh water until tender. They typically take 45-60 minutes to cook after soaking. Don't add salt until the beans are tender, as it can make them tough.
Can I use canned red kidney beans instead of dried?
Yes, canned red kidney beans are a convenient substitute for dried red kidney beans. They're already cooked, so you can add them directly to your dish. Just rinse them first to remove excess sodium from the canning liquid.