Gochujang Butter Beans with Escarole

Name: Gochujang Butter Beans with Escarole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups butter beans, cooked; 1 head escarole, chopped; 2 tablespoons gochujang; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: World Food Recipes

A delightful blend of butter beans and escarole, enhanced with the unique flavor of gochujang.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-17T01:02:19.210Z

This Gochujang Butter Beans with Escarole recipe combines hearty beans with the slight bitterness of escarole, all brought together by the spicy-sweet flavor of gochujang. Perfect as a side dish or a main meal!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Unique blend of spicy and savory flavors
Hearty and satisfying, perfect for any meal
Easy to prepare and packed with nutrients

      

A Flavorful Fusion

Gochujang Butter Beans with Escarole is not just a dish; it's a culinary experience that combines the earthy flavors of butter beans with the slightly bitter, yet refreshing taste of escarole. The addition of gochujang, a Korean chili paste, introduces a delightful layer of heat and umami, making each bite a harmonious blend of spicy and savory notes. This dish is ideal for those looking to explore new flavor profiles while enjoying a comforting meal.

Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and approachable. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that impresses both friends and family. The vibrant colors and robust flavors will have everyone asking for seconds, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Butter beans are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied. They are rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and potassium, making them a fantastic addition to any diet.

Escarole is another powerhouse ingredient, providing a wealth of antioxidants and vitamins A and K. These nutrients play a crucial role in maintaining overall health and wellness. By incorporating gochujang into the mix, you also benefit from its health properties, as it's known to boost metabolism and enhance gut health. This recipe is a delicious way to nourish your body while enjoying a flavorful meal.

Perfect Pairings

Gochujang Butter Beans with Escarole can be enjoyed on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete and balanced meal. The robust flavors of this dish complement lighter proteins, allowing them to shine without being overshadowed.

For a vegetarian option, consider pairing it with quinoa or brown rice to create a hearty grain bowl. The nutty flavors of the grains balance the spiciness of the gochujang, and the combination is sure to please both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. Don't forget to garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cups butter beans, cooked
1 head escarole, chopped
2 tablespoons gochujang
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and match these ingredients to suit your taste!

Instructions

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add Escarole

Add the chopped escarole to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.

Stir in Butter Beans

Stir in the cooked butter beans and gochujang. Mix well and cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm and enjoy!

Feel free to customize with your favorite spices!

Pro Tips

For a little extra crunch, top with toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Consider serving Gochujang Butter Beans with Escarole in a shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant colors of the dish. Adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds or sliced green onions on top not only enhances the presentation but also adds a delightful crunch and flavor. For a more substantial meal, pair it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

For those looking to elevate their dining experience, serve this dish with a side of kimchi. The fermented flavors of kimchi complement the spiciness of the gochujang, creating a well-rounded meal that excites the palate.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish can be kept for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier on the second day.

To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up, as the beans may thicken as they sit. This ensures a delightful eating experience, just like when it was freshly made.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste! If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of gochujang or substitute it with a milder chili paste. You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to increase the nutritional profile and add more color to your plate.

For an added depth of flavor, consider incorporating spices such as cumin or smoked paprika. These spices will enhance the earthiness of the butter beans while creating a unique twist on this classic recipe. Experimenting with different ingredients can lead to delightful discoveries that make each cooking experience enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned butter beans?

Yes, canned butter beans work perfectly. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before use.

→ What can I substitute for escarole?

You can substitute escarole with kale or spinach if needed.

→ How spicy is this dish?

The spice level can be adjusted by adding more or less gochujang according to your preference.

→ Can this dish be made in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it before serving.