Are you craving a flavorful and comforting meal that's ready in a flash? Look no further than this delicious Cuban Black Bean recipe! This easy recipe uses canned black beans, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend lunch. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times; this recipe delivers authentic Cuban flavors with minimal effort. It's a fantastic example of how homemade cooking can be both healthy and incredibly delicious. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons 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 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice (for serving)
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 bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the foundational flavor of the dish.
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Add the beans and liquids: Add the rinsed and drained black beans, diced tomatoes (undrained), vegetable broth, lime juice, brown sugar, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot.
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Simmer to perfection: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 15-20 minutes, or longer for a richer, more intense flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together. Stir occasionally.
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Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving over cooked white rice. Enjoy this healthy and satisfying meal!
Cooking Tips for the Best Cuban Black Beans:
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Don't be afraid to adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper.
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For a smoother texture: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to partially puree the beans before serving.
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Make it ahead: This recipe is even better the next day! The flavors have time to deepen and meld, making it a great make-ahead dish for meal prepping.
Variations:
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Add some protein: Include cooked chicken, chorizo, or shredded pork for a heartier meal.
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Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili powder or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
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Vegetarian twist: Replace the vegetable broth with coconut milk for a creamy, flavorful vegetarian version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 10g
This Cuban Black Bean recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a taste of Cuba right in your own kitchen. It's a perfect example of how quick dinner ideas can be both healthy and incredibly flavorful. Enjoy this simple, yet satisfying, dish!