Best Black Beans Recipe
If you’re searching for a dish that’s healthy, hearty, and bursting with flavor, look no further than Best Black Beans Recipe.
Equipment
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven (for stovetop method)
- Large Bowl (for soaking beans)
- Strainer or Colander (for rinsing beans)
- Wooden Spoon (for stirring)
- Measuring Spoons
- Knife and Chopping Board (for prepping ingredients)
Ingredients
- Black Beans = 01 lb dried
- Onion = 01 medium diced
- Garlic = 03 cloves minced
- Cumin = 01 teaspoon ground
- Leaves = 02 bay
- Salt = 01 teaspoon or to taste
- Black Pepper = 1/2 teaspoon
- Water or Vegetable = 04 cups broth (for more flavor)
- Olive Oil = 01 tablespoon for sautéing
- Juice = 01 lime but recommended (Optional)
- Fresh Cilantro garnish (Optional)
Instructions
- Step by Step Instructions:
Step 1: Soak the Beans (Optional)
- Soaking dried black beans reduces cooking time.
Overnight Soak
- Place beans in a bowl, cover with water, and refrigerate overnight.
Quick Soak
- Boil beans in water, cover, and sit for 1 hour.
- Drain before cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and cook until soft, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Spices
- Add cumin, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir for 30 seconds to bloom the spices and coat onions.
Step 4: Cook the Beans
- Add soaked (or unsoaked) beans to the pot.
- Pour in 4 cups of water or broth. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover the pot and simmer for 1.5-2 hours (soaked).
- If unsoaked, cook for 2.5-3 hours, until tender.
- Stir occasionally and add more liquid if needed.
Step 5: Finish with Lime Juice
- Once beans are tender, remove from heat.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the beans.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for color and freshness.
- Serve warm with your favorite side dishes.
Servings and Preparation Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes (if soaking overnight)
- Cook Time: 1.5 - 3 hours (depending on soaking)
- Total Time: 2 - 3 hours (including soaking time)
- Servings: This recipe makes about 6 servings.
Notes
- Soak the Beans: If you're using dried beans, soak them overnight. This reduces the cooking time and helps make them more digestible. If you're in a rush, you can use the “quick soak” method by boiling the beans for a few minutes and letting them sit for an hour before cooking.
- Season Early: Start by sautéing the onions and garlic before adding the beans. This releases their flavors and builds a solid foundation for the dish.
- Use Fresh Lime: Always finish the beans with a fresh squeeze of lime juice. It gives a bright and tangy contrast to the richness of the beans.
- Slow-Cook for Flavor: Slow cooking the beans (on the stovetop or in a slow cooker) allows all the spices and flavors to meld together.
- Add Stock: If you want more flavor, cook the beans in chicken or vegetable broth instead of water. It will give them a savory depth.