Thai-Inspired Coconut-Lime Crispy Beans



These Thai-inspired coconut-lime crispy beans bring together the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and crispy in a dish that’s easy to make and packed with bold flavors. The creamy coconut milk caramelizes slightly as the beans crisp up, while the lime zest and fresh herbs add a bright, zesty finish. These are perfect on their own as a snack, tossed into a rice bowl, or served alongside grilled protein for a full meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 can (15 oz) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or neutral oil of choice)
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon coconut sugar (or honey, optional for balance)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to spice preference)
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • 2 teaspoons lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 teaspoon fish sauce or soy sauce (for depth of flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro or Thai basil
  • 1 tablespoon toasted coconut flakes (optional, for extra crunch)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat a large skillet over medium heat. Pat the beans dry as much as possible with a paper towel to help them crisp up better.
  2. Crisp the Beans: Heat the coconut oil in the skillet. Add the beans in a single layer and let them cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Stir occasionally and continue crisping for another 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add Seasonings: Sprinkle in the salt, coconut sugar, garlic powder, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and cook for another minute.
  4. Deglaze & Infuse Flavor: Add the lime zest, lime juice, coconut milk, and fish sauce (or soy sauce). Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly and coats the beans in a light glaze.
  5. Finish & Serve: Remove from heat and stir in the fresh cilantro or Thai basil. Sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes for extra crunch if desired.
  6. Enjoy: Serve immediately as a snack, over rice, or alongside a protein like grilled chicken or shrimp.

Why You’ll Love These Beans:

  • Bright & Zesty – The lime zest and juice make these incredibly refreshing.
  • Crispy & Creamy – The coconut milk caramelizes slightly while the beans crisp up.
  • Versatile – Serve them as a snack, side dish, or part of a meal.
  • Packed with Thai-Inspired Flavors – Balanced umami from fish sauce (or soy sauce), sweetness from coconut, and heat from red pepper flakes.

Give these coconut-lime crispy beans a try and elevate your crispy bean game with a tropical, flavor-packed twist!

Dietary Notes:

  • Vegan & Vegetarian-Friendly (if using soy sauce instead of fish sauce)
  • Gluten-Free
  • Dairy-Free
  • High-Protein & Fiber-Packed
  • Paleo-Friendly (with fish sauce, omit coconut sugar if needed)
  • Low-Glycemic Option (skip or reduce coconut sugar)

Perfect for a wide range of dietary needs, these crispy beans make an excellent snack or side for just about anyone! Double to recipe for a small family meal.

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