Adzuki Bean and Broccoli Rabe Harmony

This simple yet flavorful dish combines the earthy sweetness of adzuki beans with the slightly bitter bite of broccoli rabe. The beans are cooked in vegetable broth until tender, then combined with sautéed broccoli rabe, onion, and garlic. A touch of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper complete the dish. Serve as a side dish or as a light main course.

Adzuki beans, also known as red beans, have been cultivated in East Asia for centuries. They are a staple ingredient in many traditional Chinese, Japanese, and Korean dishes. Broccoli rabe, a leafy green vegetable with a slightly bitter flavor, is a popular ingredient in Italian cuisine. The combination of these two ingredients in this dish creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.

Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 75 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried adzuki beans
• 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 bunch broccoli rabe, chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Rinse the adzuki beans and pick over them to remove any debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the adzuki beans and vegetable broth.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
4. While the beans are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
6. Add the broccoli rabe and cook until wilted.
7. Drain the adzuki beans and add them to the skillet with the broccoli rabe.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until heated through.

Why It Works

• Soaking the adzuki beans overnight helps to reduce their cooking time.
• Simmering the beans in vegetable broth infuses them with flavor.
• Sautéing the broccoli rabe, onion, and garlic in olive oil brings out their natural sweetness.
• Adding the drained beans to the skillet with the broccoli rabe allows them to absorb the flavors of the other ingredients.
• Seasoning the dish with salt and pepper enhances the flavors of the beans and vegetables.