Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This black beans recipe is incredibly easy to make, budget-friendly, and packed with nutrition. It’s naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a great option for almost any dietary preference. The rich, savory flavor makes it a fantastic side dish or a hearty base for burrito bowls, tacos, or even a comforting bean soup. You’ll also appreciate how easily it can be customized to match your taste preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Black beans (dried or canned)
- Onion
- Garlic
- Bay leaf
- Olive oil
- Ground cumin
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Water or broth (for cooking dried beans)
- Lime juice (optional, for serving)
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- If using dried beans: Rinse thoroughly and soak overnight in water. Drain and rinse again before cooking.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant.
- Add cumin, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine with the aromatics.
- Add black beans to the pot along with water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer. For soaked dried beans, cook for 60–90 minutes until tender. For canned beans, simmer for 15–20 minutes to absorb flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to taste. Remove bay leaf before serving.
- Garnish with a squeeze of lime and fresh cilantro if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time:
- 60–90 minutes for dried beans (after soaking)
- 15–20 minutes for canned beans
Total time: Varies depending on bean type, 25 to 100 minutes.
Variations
- Add chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Stir in cooked bacon or smoked sausage for a meaty version.
- Use vegetable broth instead of water for added depth.
- Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smoky flavor.
- Mix in cooked quinoa or rice to create a complete meal.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover black beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze beans in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in a covered dish until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if the beans have thickened too much during storage.
FAQs
How long do you soak dried black beans?
Soak black beans for at least 8 hours or overnight in plenty of water to help them cook more evenly and reduce cooking time.
Can I use canned black beans instead of dried?
Yes, canned black beans are a great shortcut. Just drain and rinse them before using.
Do I need to soak black beans before cooking?
Soaking is recommended for dried beans, but not absolutely required. However, it helps with digestion and reduces cook time.
What spices go well with black beans?
Cumin, garlic, onion, smoked paprika, bay leaves, chili powder, and oregano all complement black beans beautifully.
Can I make black beans in a slow cooker?
Yes, add soaked beans, aromatics, and water or broth to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
How do I thicken black beans?
You can mash some of the beans with a spoon or blend a portion of them to thicken the consistency.
Are black beans healthy?
Yes, black beans are high in protein, fiber, antioxidants, and several essential nutrients.
Can I freeze cooked black beans?
Absolutely. Let them cool completely and store in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
What dishes can I make with black beans?
Use them in burrito bowls, tacos, enchiladas, soups, salads, or even veggie burgers.
How do I make black beans taste better?
Sauté aromatics like onion and garlic, use broth instead of water, and season with bold spices to bring out the best flavor.
Conclusion
Black beans are a staple ingredient that offer a delicious way to boost your meals with protein and fiber. This recipe makes them easy to prepare and customize, whether you’re serving them as a side dish or making them the centerpiece of a hearty vegetarian dinner. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, black beans are a go-to ingredient worth mastering.
PrintBlack Beans
A simple and flavorful black beans recipe, perfect as a side dish or main base for burrito bowls, tacos, and more. Naturally vegan, gluten-free, and customizable with spices and garnishes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–90 minutes
- Total Time: 25–100 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Latin American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried black beans or 3 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups water or vegetable broth (for cooking dried beans)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional, for serving)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
If using dried beans: rinse thoroughly and soak overnight in water. Drain and rinse again before cooking.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant.
- Add cumin, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Add black beans and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer. Cook soaked dried beans for 60–90 minutes or canned beans for 15–20 minutes until tender and flavorful.
- Adjust seasoning as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Garnish with lime juice and chopped cilantro if desired.
Notes
- For more flavor, use vegetable broth instead of water.
- Add chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for spice.
- Freeze leftovers in portions for easy future meals.
- To thicken, mash some beans or blend a portion.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
