Skip to:
Looking to make your favorite recipes plant based? Use canned beans as a substitute protein source for chicken, pork, beef or fish. They are less expensive and lower in saturated fats.
Swap This: |
For This: |
Chicken Pork Beef Fish |
Black beans – mild flavor and smooth, velvety texture. An excellent source of folate and a great complement to salty foods. |
Pinto beans – earthy flavor and packed with fiber and protein. This bean has a smooth texture perfect for dips and stews. |
|
Chickpeas (garbanzo beans) – nutty flavor and firm texture. Used to make hummus! |
|
Kidney beans – mild flavor and packed with protein. Great with rice or tacos! |
|
Fava beans – a sweet and nutty flavor plus a buttery texture. Makes for a great salad topping. |
Tip: Look for low-sodium or no-salt-added when buying canned. Rinsing and draining canned beans can also help to reduce sodium by up to 41%[1].
Looking for an alternative to salt? Try adding these ingredients as an alternative that can bring a burst of saltiness and umami flavoring to your dish:
- Soy sauce
- Parmesan Cheese
- Anchovy Paste
- Seaweed
- Fish sauce
- Pickles or pickles vegetables
- Bacon
- Bouillon cubes and powder
- Onion Soup Mix
Does your dish need a little sweetness? Try adding one of these sweet flavor bursts:
- Sugar
- Maple syrup
- Honey
- Ketchup
- BBQ sauce
- Balsamic or Apple Cider Vinegar
For more ideas on ingredient substitutes and alternatives, explore our Knorr Sides Pantry Pals - [PDF - 1MB] for creative and easy ways to make meals with Knorr Sides or our Knorr Bouillon Pantry Pals - [PDF -1MB] for ways to add flavor to a quick dish.
[1] Roberta L. Duyff, John R. Mount & Joshua B. Jones (2011) Sodium Reduction in Canned Beans After Draining, Rinsing, Journal of Culinary Science & Technology, 9:2, 106-112, DOI: 10.1080/15428052.2011.582405