Prepare to transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Cuba with this mouthwatering Cuban Black Beans recipe that's about to become your new comfort food obsession! 🇨🇺🫘 In just 40 minutes, you'll create a rich, aromatic dish that's not just a side, but a culinary experience that captures the heart of Cuban home cooking. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, these black beans will make you feel like you've been transported to a sunny Cuban kitchen, with flavors so authentic they'll have your family and friends begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Cuban
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and bell peppers, sautéing until the vegetables become soft and translucent, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the aromatic flavors.
- Sprinkle cumin over the vegetables, stirring to distribute the spice evenly and allow it to toast slightly, which enhances its flavor profile.
- Pour the drained and rinsed black beans into the skillet, gently stirring to combine with the sautéed vegetables and spices.
- Season the beans with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning gradually and tasting as you go.
- Reduce heat to low and let the beans simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and allow the flavors to meld together.
- If the beans appear too dry, add a small amount of water or vegetable broth to maintain moisture and prevent scorching.
- Once the beans are heated through and have reached a creamy consistency, remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
- Serve hot as a side dish, over rice, or as part of a traditional Cuban meal.
Tips
- Use freshly toasted cumin for maximum flavor - whole cumin seeds toasted and ground just before cooking will elevate your beans dramatically.
- Don't rush the sautéing process. Letting onions and peppers caramelize slowly develops a deeper, more complex flavor profile.
- For extra authenticity, consider adding a splash of white wine vinegar or a small amount of sofrito (traditional Cuban seasoning blend) to enhance the beans' depth.
- If using canned beans, always rinse thoroughly to reduce sodium and improve texture.
- For a creamier consistency, gently mash a portion of the beans while cooking to create a richer, more traditional Cuban-style texture.
- These beans taste even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make them in advance - the flavors will continue to develop and intensify overnight.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
