Great Northern and Pinto Beans with Jalapeno Cornbread Dumplings
Great Northern and Pinto Beans with Jalapeno Cornbread Dumplings is a cozy, hearty dish that brings warmth to your kitchen and comfort to your table. This recipe blends nutritious beans with delicious, spicy cornbread dumplings, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Why Make This Recipe
Not only is this dish flavorful and filling, but it is also packed with protein and fiber from the beans. It is a great option for those looking for a vegetarian meal that doesn’t skimp on taste. The addition of jalapenos in the cornbread dumplings adds a lovely kick that elevates the entire dish. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and can be made ahead of time!
How to Make Great Northern and Pinto Beans with Jalapeno Cornbread Dumplings
Ingredients
- 1 cup Great Northern beans
- 1 cup pinto beans
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup jalapenos, diced
- 1 cup grated cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter
Directions
- Soak the Great Northern and pinto beans overnight. Drain and rinse.
- In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent.
- Add the soaked beans, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer until beans are tender, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
- In a bowl, mix together cornmeal, buttermilk, eggs, diced jalapenos, cheese (if using), and softened butter to form a batter.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cornbread batter onto the simmering bean mixture. Cover and cook for about 10 to 15 minutes until the dumplings are firm and cooked through.
- Serve hot.
How to Serve Great Northern and Pinto Beans with Jalapeno Cornbread Dumplings
You can serve this dish in bowls to enjoy the beans and the delicious cornbread dumplings together. It pairs nicely with a fresh salad or some pickled vegetables to add a bit of crunch and freshness.
How to Store Great Northern and Pinto Beans with Jalapeno Cornbread Dumplings
Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. If you want to freeze it, do so without the cornbread dumplings. The beans can be frozen for up to 3 months; just reheat and add fresh dumplings when you’re ready to serve.
Tips to Make Great Northern and Pinto Beans with Jalapeno Cornbread Dumplings
- Make sure to soak the beans overnight for the best results. This helps them cook faster.
- Adjust the spice level of the dish by using more or less jalapenos in your cornbread batter.
- Feel free to leave out the cheese for a dairy-free version or try different cheese options for added flavor!
Variation
You can switch up the beans and use black beans or kidney beans instead of Great Northern and pinto beans. Each type of bean offers a unique taste and texture. Also, if you want a twist, try adding herbs like cilantro or spices like smoked paprika to the bean mixture.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the bean mixture a day earlier and add the dumplings just before serving.
Q: What can I serve with this dish?
A: It pairs well with a simple salad, pickled vegetables, or even some avocado slices for a creamy addition.
Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes, as long as you use gluten-free cornmeal, this recipe is gluten-free and suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Enjoy your cooking experience and savor every bite of this fantastic dish!

Great Northern and Pinto Beans with Jalapeno Cornbread Dumplings
Ingredients
Method
- Soak the Great Northern and pinto beans overnight. Drain and rinse.
- In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent.
- Add the soaked beans, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer until beans are tender, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
- In a bowl, mix together cornmeal, buttermilk, eggs, diced jalapenos, cheese (if using), and softened butter to form a batter.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cornbread batter onto the simmering bean mixture. Cover and cook for about 10 to 15 minutes until the dumplings are firm and cooked through.
- Serve hot.






