Craving a quick, mouthwatering dish that'll transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Mexico? Look no further than this sensational Spiced Black Beans Ham recipe! In just 20 minutes, you'll create a protein-packed, flavor-loaded meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress dinner guests with minimal effort. Get ready to elevate your culinary skills and tantalize your senses with this irresistible combination of smoky ham, hearty black beans, and bold Mexican-inspired spices!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked black beans
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Drain and rinse the cooked black beans thoroughly in a colander, ensuring excess liquid is removed to prevent wateriness in the final dish.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat, allowing it to warm and shimmer slightly before adding ingredients.
- Add diced ham to the heated pan, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until the edges begin to crisp and develop a light golden-brown color.
- Sprinkle cumin and chili powder directly over the ham, stirring quickly to distribute the spices evenly and toast them slightly, releasing their aromatic oils.
- Gently add the black beans to the skillet, stirring carefully to combine with the spiced ham without mashing the beans.
- Season with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste and ensuring the spices are well incorporated throughout the mixture.
- Cook the bean and ham mixture for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld and the beans to heat through completely.
- Remove from heat and let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to settle before serving hot.
Tips
- Bean Preparation: Always drain and rinse canned or pre-cooked black beans thoroughly to remove excess starch and prevent a mushy texture.
- Spice Toasting: Take an extra moment to toast your cumin and chili powder in the pan before adding other ingredients. This simple step dramatically enhances the depth and complexity of flavors.
- Ham Selection: Choose high-quality, slightly smoky ham for the best results. Diced ham from a good-quality deli or leftover holiday ham works wonderfully.
- Heat Control: Maintain a medium heat to ensure even cooking and prevent burning the spices or ham.
- Texture Matters: Stir gently to keep the black beans intact, preserving their creamy interior while getting a slight crisp on the exterior.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve over rice, with warm tortillas, or as a standalone protein-rich side dish. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream can add an extra layer of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 204kcal
Carbohydrates: 21g
Protein: 17g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 25mg
