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Best Black Beans Recipe
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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.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Latin American Cuisines, Mexican
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

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)

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)

Method
 

  1. Step by Step Instructions:
Step 1: Soak the Beans (Optional)
  1. Soaking dried black beans reduces cooking time.
Overnight Soak
  1. Place beans in a bowl, cover with water, and refrigerate overnight.
Quick Soak
  1. Boil beans in water, cover, and sit for 1 hour.
  2. Drain before cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add diced onion and cook until soft, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Spices
  1. Add cumin, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Stir for 30 seconds to bloom the spices and coat onions.
Step 4: Cook the Beans
  1. Add soaked (or unsoaked) beans to the pot.
  2. Pour in 4 cups of water or broth. Stir to combine.
  3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
  4. Cover the pot and simmer for 1.5-2 hours (soaked).
  5. If unsoaked, cook for 2.5-3 hours, until tender.
  6. Stir occasionally and add more liquid if needed.
Step 5: Finish with Lime Juice
  1. Once beans are tender, remove from heat.
  2. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the beans.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Serve
  1. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for color and freshness.
  2. Serve warm with your favorite side dishes.
Servings and Preparation Times
  1. Preparation Time: 15 minutes (if soaking overnight)
  2. Cook Time: 1.5 - 3 hours (depending on soaking)
  3. Total Time: 2 - 3 hours (including soaking time)
  4. 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.