Sweet Island Beans, known traditionally as Habichuelas con Dulce, is a beloved Dominican dessert that combines the rich, creamy flavors of red kidney beans, coconut milk, and sweetened condensed milk. This luscious treat is infused with aromatic spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, and features tender chunks of sweet potato and raisins, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Often enjoyed during Lent, Sweet Island Beans is a comforting, tropical delight that embodies the spirit of Caribbean cuisine. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, this dessert brings a taste of the islands to your table, offering a unique and memorable culinary experience.
Sweet Island Beans
Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users
Category
Dominican Republic
Servings
11
Prep Time
45 minutes
Cook Time
1 hour
Calories
501
Author:
Angie M.
Sweet Island Beans, known traditionally as Habichuelas con Dulce, is a beloved Dominican dessert that combines the rich, creamy flavors of red kidney beans, coconut milk, and sweetened condensed milk. This luscious treat is infused with aromatic spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, and features tender chunks of sweet potato and raisins, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Often enjoyed during Lent, Sweet Island Beans is a comforting, tropical delight that embodies the spirit of Caribbean cuisine. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, this dessert brings a taste of the islands to your table, offering a unique and memorable culinary experience.
Ingredients
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4 cups of red kidney beans (cooked and mashed)
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4 cups of coconut milk
4 cups of whole milk
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1 can of evaporated milk
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1 cup of sugar (adjust to taste)
1 cup of sweetened condensed milk
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2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
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1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
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1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon of ground cloves
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1/2 teaspoon of salt
2 cups of sweet potatoes (peeled and cut into small cubes)
1/2 cup of raisins
1/2 cup of butter or margarine
10 cloves (optional, for added flavor)
4 cinnamon sticks (optional, for added flavor)
Directions
Prepare the Beans
If using dried beans, soak them overnight and then cook until tender. If using canned beans, drain and rinse them.
Blend the beans with 2 cups of water until smooth.
Cook the Sweet Potatoes
In a large pot, add the cubed sweet potatoes and cover with water. Cook until tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
Combine Ingredients
In a large pot, combine the blended beans, coconut milk, whole milk, evaporated milk, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir well to mix.
Add the sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and salt. Stir to combine.
Cook the Mixture
Place the pot over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
Once it starts boiling, add the butter, sweet potatoes, raisins, and the optional whole cloves and cinnamon sticks.
Reduce heat and simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serve
Remove the cloves and cinnamon sticks before serving.
Serve warm or cold, depending on your preference. Habichuelas con Dulce is often served with small cookies or cassava bread.