Description
Cuban black beans emerge as a soulful comfort classic from Caribbean kitchens, blending rich spices and hearty legumes into a deeply satisfying dish. Creamy beans infused with garlic, cumin, and smoky flavors invite you to savor authentic Cuban culinary traditions in every delicious spoonful.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins and Beans:
- 1 pound (2 cups) dried black beans, rinsed and sorted
Aromatics and Vegetables:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Liquids and Seasonings:
- 6 cups water or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lime juice (optional, for brightness)
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the legumes by immersing them in cool water, allowing them to hydrate for a full night or approximately 6-8 hours. Thoroughly drain and cleanse the beans before initiating the cooking process.
- Select a substantial cooking vessel and warm olive oil over moderate temperature. Introduce finely chopped onions, diced green peppers, and minced garlic, sautéing until the vegetables become translucent and release their aromatic essence.
- Transfer the previously soaked beans into the fragrant vegetable foundation, complementing them with liquid (water or chicken broth), a single bay leaf, ground cumin, dried oregano, smoky paprika, kosher salt, and freshly cracked pepper. Integrate all components thoroughly.
- Elevate the mixture to a vigorous boil, then immediately reduce thermal intensity to a gentle simmer. Secure the pot with a tight-fitting lid, allowing the beans to tenderly cook for approximately 90-120 minutes, periodically monitoring liquid levels and stirring to prevent adherence to the pot’s bottom.
- To enhance the bean’s creamy consistency, delicately crush a portion against the pot’s interior using a wooden spoon, naturally thickening the liquid.
- Conclude the preparation by introducing a splash of tangy vinegar or freshly squeezed lime juice, which will brighten the overall flavor profile. Calibrate seasoning according to personal preference.
- Present the robust beans atop fluffy white rice, garnishing with vibrant, chopped cilantro for a final touch of freshness and visual appeal.
Notes
- Soak beans ahead of time to reduce cooking duration and improve digestibility, ensuring a smoother texture and faster preparation.
- Use fresh spices like cumin and oregano to enhance the authentic Cuban flavor profile, creating a more vibrant and aromatic dish.
- Consider adding smoked ham hock or bacon for non-vegetarian versions, providing deeper umami and richness to the black beans.
- Experiment with different vinegars like apple cider or white wine vinegar to customize the final tangy note, matching personal taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Cuban
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 215
- Sugar: 0.6 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 13 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg