Tomato Tahini Bean Bowl

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tomatoes

   1 min hands-on6 min waiting

   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add whole tomatoes and sprinkle with salt.
   • Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes soften and begin to burst.
   • Add a splash of water if the pan starts to dry out.

2. Enhance the Base

   1 min hands-on2 min waiting

   • Finely mince garlic and add to the pan with tomatoes.
   • Stir in tomato sauce, hot sauce, and smoked paprika.
   • Cook for another 2–3 minutes until fragrant and slightly thickened.

3. Incorporate the Beans

   2 min hands-on6 min waiting

   • Rinse and drain pinto beans, then add to the skillet with water.
   • Stir to coat beans in the tomato mixture.
   • Add cream cheese and mix until it melts into the sauce.
   • Lower heat to a simmer and cook for 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens and beans are heated through.

4. Toast the Almonds and Bread Crumbs

   3 min hands-on

   • Toast almonds in a dry pan over low heat for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
   • Set almonds aside.
   • Toast seasoned bread crumbs in the same pan until golden and crispy.

5. Prepare the Garnishes

   2 min hands-on

   • Wash and finely chop fresh parsley.
   • Whisk tahini with water in a small bowl to create a smooth consistency.

6. Assemble the Dish

   2 min hands-on

   • Divide tomato-bean mixture into serving bowls.
   • Drizzle each portion with prepared tahini and hot sauce.
   • Sprinkle toasted bread crumbs, chopped parsley, and almonds evenly over the top.
   • Cooking tips:
   • Use ripe, fresh tomatoes for the best flavor. If they’re out of season, canned whole tomatoes can be substituted.
   • Adjust the amount of hot sauce based on your spice tolerance.
   • For a nut-free option, replace almonds with sunflower seeds or omit entirely.
   • If the sauce becomes too thick, thin it out with a tablespoon of water or vegetable stock.
   • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave before serving.