Cuban Black Beans
Cuban black beans are a flavorful and hearty dish made with a blend of aromatic vegetables, herbs, and spices. This dish is perfect as a side or main course, particularly when paired with rice, making it a delicious and nutritious option for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (if using canned beans)
- Cook Time: 45-60 minutes (if using dried beans)
- Total Time: 1 hour (if using dried beans), 30 minutes (if using canned beans)
- Yield: undefined
- Category: Side Dish, Main Course
- Method: undefined
- Cuisine: Cuban
Ingredients
2 cups dried black beans (or 3 cans of cooked black beans, drained and rinsed)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
1 bell pepper, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon oregano
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added smokiness)
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup vinegar (white or apple cider)
2 cups vegetable broth or water
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- If using dried beans, rinse them and soak them overnight in plenty of water. Drain the beans before cooking. If using canned beans, skip this step.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add the garlic, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir well and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the soaked (or canned) black beans, vegetable broth (or water), salt, and black pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Lower the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let the beans cook for 45-60 minutes, or until the beans are tender (if using canned beans, simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld).
- Once the beans are cooked, stir in the vinegar and adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Serve the Cuban black beans hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired.
Notes
- For a heartier version, add diced ham, bacon, or chorizo while cooking the beans.
- For extra spice, add a chopped jalapeño or red pepper flakes.
- Add tomatoes for a richer, tomato-flavored bean dish.
- Can be stored for up to 4-5 days in the fridge and also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/cuban-black-beans/
