Are you craving a comforting, flavorful, and healthy meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Black Bean Baked Beans recipe puts a delicious spin on a classic, offering a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Forget those sugary, overly processed canned versions; this homemade recipe is packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with authentic flavor. It's a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are also good for you – a win-win!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and bell peppers and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
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Combine the ingredients: Add the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, molasses, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot. Season generously with salt and pepper.
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Simmer and thicken: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld and the sauce will thicken. This is a great example of a recipe that gets better with time!
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Serve and enjoy: Once the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as cornbread, rice, or a simple green salad.
Tips for the Best Black Bean Baked Beans:
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Don't be afraid to adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or other spices to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder dish, omit the cayenne pepper altogether.
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For a smokier flavor: Use liquid smoke in addition to or instead of smoked paprika. A teaspoon will do the trick!
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Add some meat: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked bacon, sausage, or ham during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
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Make it ahead: These beans taste even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. This is a fantastic quick dinner idea for busy weeknights.
Variations:
- Spicy Black Bean Baked Beans: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- Vegetarian Black Bean Baked Beans: Ensure all ingredients used are vegetarian-friendly.
- Southwestern Black Bean Baked Beans: Add a can of corn, some chopped jalapeños, and a sprinkle of cumin.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 10-12 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 10-12 grams
This black bean baked beans recipe offers a healthy and delicious meal that's perfect for any occasion. The easy-to-follow instructions and tips make it accessible to cooks of all skill levels, turning this homemade cooking project into a simple and satisfying experience. Enjoy!