Makingendsmeet

Chick PeaBallsinTomatoSauce

Chick Peas

High in protein and fibre, chick peas are often used in vegan and vegetarian dishes as a filling alternative to meat. Hummus is, of course, a popular and delicious usage, with seemingly endless options for adding different flavours and textures. I would also recommend doing the same with another favourite chick pea recipe of mine, falafel. A versatile, easy-to-eat and textural dish, you can add a variety of additions and serve in different ways. Try my sweet potato falafel, served with tortilla wraps for a great outdoor dish in the summer months. A great childfriendly recipe is a take on meatballs and spaghetti, using chick peas to make the tasty balls, with a vitaminpacked tomato sauce.

Kidney Beans

Keep Your Finger On The Pulse

This month, Country Range development chef, Paul Dickson puts the spotlight on four of the most used tinned pulses to inspire you to put them at the forefront of your menu this summer.

We can sometimes overlook the humble tinned chick pea or kidney bean. However, the versatility and ease of use of tinned pulses is not something to be sniffed at. With rising costs of ingredients such as meat, pulses can be a cost-effective way to bulk out recipes with nutritious, protein-rich goodness.

Paul is a Home Economist and Food Stylist working in London and the North West, creating exceptional visual stories in film & tv, on social media and in print. All of the recipes and videos featured in the article can be accessed online at www. countryrange.co.uk/recipes or by scanning the QR code.

Cannellini Beans

These creamy white beans are full of nutritional value and are as versatile as any bean to add to stews, soups and casseroles. But I also like to use their creaminess to create extra-nutritious sides. This mash using cannellini beans, parsley and garlic is delicious as an alternative to potato or a topping for toast, as well as being suitable for those with dysphagia.

Jerk Chicken Rice & Peas

Undoubtedly the biggest use of kidney beans is for chilli and there are so many different ways that this can be made and served, making it one of the most versatile dishes in catering across all sectors. As we move into the summer months, another great way to include kidney beans is in the Jamaican staple, rice and peas. The peas are actually kidney beans, and the addition of coconut milk makes this a really tasty and comforting side. Ideal as a barbecue accompaniment, particularly if you’re using spicy marinades and seasonings.

Sausage Butterbean

Casserole

Butter Beans

I love the chunkiness of butter beans and their mild taste, which means they can be married with a lot of different flavours. Their size makes them ideal for bulking out recipes, such as creamy chicken, leek and butter bean casserole, meaning that you can serve less chicken per portion. This classic sausage and bean casserole is a great way to pack nutrition into a dish whilst keeping the cost low, making it a hit across a variety of sectors.