Craving a vibrant, flavorful, and comforting meal? Look no further than this authentic Frijoles Colorados Cubanos recipe! This Cuban-style red bean stew is a staple in many Cuban homes, and for good reason. It's incredibly easy to make, bursting with deliciousness, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend lunch. Get ready to transport your taste buds straight to the sunny shores of Cuba!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups red kidney beans, rinsed and drained (canned is perfectly fine!)
- 4 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (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 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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Bloom the spices: Add the cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This step releases the full flavor of the spices.
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Combine ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, red kidney beans, vegetable broth, bay leaf, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor becomes.
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Season and serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Season the Frijoles Colorados Cubanos with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with lime wedges on the side for a bright, zesty finish.
Cooking Tips for the Best Frijoles Colorados:
- Don't rush the simmering process: Low and slow is key here! The longer the beans simmer, the more tender and flavorful they will become.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, omit it entirely.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or diced potatoes for added nutrients and flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Frijoles: Add a chopped jalapeño pepper along with the other vegetables for an extra kick.
- Hearty Frijoles: Add 1 cup of cooked chorizo or diced ham for a richer, meatier stew.
- Vegetarian Frijoles: This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can make it vegan by ensuring your broth is vegetable-based and omitting any meat additions.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 10-12 grams
- Fiber: 8-10 grams
This easy and healthy Frijoles Colorados Cubanos recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. It's a great source of protein and fiber, making it a nutritious addition to your diet. Enjoy this taste of Cuba from the comfort of your own kitchen! Let us know in the comments how yours turned out!