Brunch Ideas: Incorporating Grainful Blends into Mid-Morning Gatherings

Brunch is the perfect way to bring people together over delicious, wholesome food. Whether you’re hosting a weekend gathering or meal-prepping for busy mornings, incorporating Grainful Blends Pinto Bean Barley Chowder into your brunch menu adds a nutrient-rich, hearty dish that satisfies both taste and health goals.

This savory pinto bean barley chowder is packed with fiber, plant-based protein, and essential nutrients, making it an excellent option for a balanced brunch. With a creamy texture, smoky undertones, and the wholesome goodness of Grainful Blends’ Barley & Pinto Bean Mix, this dish is perfect for serving alongside crusty bread, avocado toast, or fresh greens.

 Why This Chowder is Perfect for Brunch

✔️ High-Protein & Fiber-Packed: The combination of pinto beans and barley keeps you full and energized.
✔️ Easy to Prepare: Can be made ahead and reheated for a stress-free brunch.
✔️ Dairy-Free & Vegan-Friendly: Naturally creamy without heavy creams or dairy.
✔️ Great for a Crowd: A one-pot dish that serves multiple guests with ease.

 Savory Grainful Pinto Bean Barley Chowder Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Grainful Blends Pinto Bean & Barley Mix (cooked according to package instructions)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 1 small red bell pepper, diced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk (or another dairy-free alternative)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish)
• Crushed tortilla chips or toasted sourdough (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Saute the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the carrot, celery, and bell pepper, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.

2. Season & Simmer

Add the smoked paprika, cumin, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Stir in the tomato paste, coating the vegetables evenly. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 10 minutes.

3. Add Pinto Beans & Barley

Stir in the cooked Grainful Blends Pinto Bean & Barley Mix. Let the chowder simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

4. Create Creamy Texture

Pour in the coconut milk and stir in the apple cider vinegar for a subtle tangy balance. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let the chowder simmer for another 5 minutes.

5. Garnish & Serve

Ladle the chowder into bowls, top with fresh cilantro or parsley, and serve with crushed tortilla chips or toasted sourdough.

 Pairing Suggestions for a Complete Brunch Spread

🍞 Avocado Toast with Chili Flakes & Lemon – Pairs well with the smoky chowder flavors.
🥗 Mixed Greens with Lemon-Tahini Dressing – Adds freshness and a light contrast.
🥑 Guacamole & Whole Grain Crackers – A perfect dip to complement the chowder.
🍹 Citrus Mimosas or Iced Hibiscus Tea – Refreshing drinks to brighten your brunch table.

 Benefits of This Dish

🔹 Pinto Bean Barley Chowder – A hearty, plant-based dish perfect for brunch.
🔹 High-Protein Vegan Soup – Packed with fiber and protein from pinto beans and barley.
🔹 Healthy Comfort Food Recipe – A warm, nourishing meal with wholesome ingredients.
🔹 Dairy-Free Brunch Idea – A creamy chowder without any dairy-based ingredients.
🔹 Meal-Prep Friendly Brunch – Make ahead and reheat for an easy, nutritious option.

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

🌟 Nutrient-Packed: Pinto beans provide plant-based protein, while barley adds fiber for gut health.
🌟 Rich & Creamy Without Dairy: Coconut milk creates a luscious texture without heavy creams.
🌟 Perfect for Any Diet: Naturally vegan, dairy-free, and loaded with whole-food goodness.
🌟 Great for Any Occasion: Ideal for weekend brunches, meal-prep lunches, or cozy dinners.

 If you’re looking to add a flavorful, nourishing, and easy-to-make dish to your brunch lineup, this Savory Grainful Pinto Bean Barley Chowder is the perfect choice. Try it out and let us know how it turned out in the comments below!