Cuban Black Beans
These cozy Cuban black beans come together quickly with pantry staples and a handful of fresh ingredients. Rich, savory, and versatile—enjoy them as a side or main, with rice, bread, or your favorite fixings. Vegan, naturally gluten-free, and bursting with classic Cuban flavors like cumin, oregano, and a splash of red wine vinegar.
4
servings
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
- 1 yellow or white onion medium, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper medium, diced (or use red bell pepper)
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cans (820 g) black beans 15 oz each, undrained (or 3 to 3½ cups cooked black beans with extra water as needed)
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) water plus more as needed
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) red wine vinegar
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
Garnish
- fresh cilantro chopped, for topping (optional)
Equipment
- Large skillet
- wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Knife
- Cutting board
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and diced green bell pepper and sauté until soft and golden in spots, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and lightly toasty, but not browned.
- Add the undrained black beans, water, bay leaves, cumin, oregano, and red wine vinegar. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer.
- Lower the heat and let simmer gently for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the mixture looks dry, add a splash more water.
- Remove the bay leaves. Season the beans with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Spoon over warm rice or serve with your favorite bread. Garnish with plenty of chopped fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
Storage: Let beans cool completely before storing. Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 5 days. Freeze up to 2 months.
Variations: Add jalapeño for heat, a splash of lime juice in place of vinegar, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for earthy depth. For meatiness, stir in chorizo, bacon, or pulled pork.
Great with rice, cornbread, tortillas, fried eggs, or as a taco filling.
Nutrition
Calories: 255kcal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 13g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 630mg | Potassium: 668mg | Fiber: 11g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 735IU | Vitamin C: 24mg | Calcium: 74mg | Iron: 3.5mg