Homemade Bean Cakes Recipe: Crispy, Golden,
Homemade Bean Cakes Recipe: A Crispy, Golden Delight
If you’ve ever wondered what to do with leftover beans, let me introduce you to bean cakes. Crispy on the outside, soft and flavorful on the inside, these bean cakes are a genius way to turn simple ingredients into a delicious meal. Not only are they budget-friendly, but they’re also the kind of comfort food you’ll want to make again and again.
This recipe came from a humble social media post, but don’t let the casual tone fool you—it’s packed with flavor and family history. Made from leftover white beans and pork roast, these cakes combine savory spices, a touch of heat from jalapeños, and a golden fry for that irresistible crunch.
Why You’ll Love These Bean Cakes
Bean cakes are perfect for a cozy dinner, a midday snack, or even as an appetizer. They’re quick to whip up, use simple pantry ingredients, and are endlessly versatile. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to repurpose leftovers—hello, sustainability!
And if you grew up in the South or with a frugal home cook in the family, this dish might bring back some warm, nostalgic memories.
Ingredients for Bean Cakes
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Leftover white beans and pork roast (mashed together)
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 jalapeño, diced
- 2 eggs
- Flour (enough to create a sticky dough)
- Salt (for seasoning and finishing)
How to Make Bean Cakes
1. Mash the Ingredients
Start with your leftover white beans and pork roast. Mash them together in a bowl using a potato masher until combined.
2. Add the Flavor
Mix in the diced onion and jalapeño for a kick of heat and texture.
3. Bind the Dough
Crack in the eggs and gradually add flour, mixing until you have a somewhat sticky dough. Keep your hands floured to make handling the dough easier!
4. Shape the Cakes
Using floured hands, form the dough into small patties or cakes.
5. Fry to Perfection
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the bean cakes until golden brown on each side, about 3–4 minutes per side.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Season with a sprinkle of salt on top and serve immediately. These cakes pair wonderfully with a side salad, some hot sauce, or a dollop of sour cream.
Pro Tips for Making Bean Cakes
- Use Any Beans: While this recipe calls for white beans, you can easily substitute pinto beans or black beans for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Don’t Skip the Jalapeño: The subtle heat balances the richness of the cakes perfectly. Not a fan of spice? Use a milder pepper or just a pinch of smoked paprika instead.
- Make It Your Own: Add shredded cheese, chopped herbs, or a dash of garlic powder to customize your bean cakes.
