According to the USDA, beans can serve as nutritious, low-fat, low-cost meat substitutes. USDA's Dietary Guidelines for Americans include dry beans in both the meat and vegetable groups.
Cooking Tip #8
Quick, low-fat brownies: Use black bean puree in place of eggs and oil when using brownie mix. To puree beans, measure 1 1/2 cups cooked, rinsed, and drained beans. Add 1-2 tablespoons water and puree till smooth.