They may not be the most exciting of foods, but tinned pulses are among the great workhorses of healthy, low-cost family meals and there should always be room for them in your pantry. Full of fibre, protein and a number of essential minerals, they’re incredibly versatile, fast to prepare and several varieties can usually be found at the supermarket for under $2 a tin (if you’re concerned about sodium, choose a “no added salt” option and/or give your beans or chickpeas a really good drain and rinse with clean water).
Every one of this week’s recipes is based on a tin or two of pulses, but you definitely won’t feel you’re eating the same thing over and over. They’re budget-conscious, with lots of store cupboard staples and seasonal veg, easy, and fast, and show just how much a seemingly unexciting little tin can do.
If you like Dinner Sorted, use the link below to sign up for the Dinner Sorted newsletter, for bonus recipes and a handy shopping list delivered to your inbox every Saturday morning.
Sam Mannering
Chicken with artichoke, beans and chilli.
Chicken with artichoke, beans and chilli
One pan and 20 minutes is all you need for this comforting dinner.
Nicola Galloway
Squash & black bean enchiladas.
Nicola Galloway’s squash and black bean enchiladas recipe
Healthy comfort food does exist.
Melanie Jenkins/Supplied
Chorizo and chickpea stew.
Chorizo and chickpea stew
Chorizo sausages are so tasty it’s possible to make a few go a long way, especially in a stew like this.
SAM MANNERING
Chickpea fritters with miso, ginger and herbs.
Chickpea fritters with miso, ginger and herbs
Got chickpeas? Get cooking.
MICHAEL BRADLEY
Kumara with pinto beans and spinach.
Kumara with pinto beans and spinach
When it comes to eating simple, there is nothing better than a big baked kumara.