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Cuban-Style Black Beans recipe

Lazy Cuban-Style Black Beans

This lazy Cuban-style black beans recipe uses canned beans for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Savory, brothy, and ready in 20 minutes! We keep the rich texture by using the full can liquid and building flavor with a simple onion and garlic sofrito.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Course Appetizer, Sides
Cuisine Cuban, Latin American
Servings 4 people

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 19 oz / 540 mL can black beans do not drain
  • ½ medium white or yellow onion finely diced (~3/4 cup)
  • 1-2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1-2 tsp red wine vinegar start with 1 tsp
  • 1/4-1/2 tsp vegetable bouillon optional, for deeper savoriness
  • to taste hot chilies fresh or dried
  • to taste salt and black pepper
  • 1-4 tbsp water optional, only if needed to loosen

Instructions
 

  • Heat olive oil in a small/medium pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and green bell pepper and cook 6–8 minutes until softened and lightly golden.
  • Stir in minced garlic and your hot chilies. Cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant (don’t let the garlic brown).
  • Add oregano, bay leaf, and (if using) vegetable bouillon. Stir for 10–15 seconds to bloom the herbs.
  • Pour in the entire can of black beans, liquid included. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Simmer 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. For a thicker, creamier texture, lightly mash some beans against the side of the pot.
  • Stir in red wine vinegar, starting with 1 tsp. Taste and add more if you want extra brightness.
  • Taste and adjust salt/pepper. If it gets thicker than you like, add a splash of water (1 tbsp at a time).
  • Remove bay leaf and serve hot.

Video

Notes

Note: If your bouillon is salty, you may not need extra salt. Vinegar goes in near the end so it stays bright instead of disappearing in the simmer.
Nutritional information is approximate values and can vary significantly depending on the specific brands of ingredients used. Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and should not be considered professional nutritional advice.

Nutrition

Serving: 300g | Calories: 180kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 450mg | Fiber: 10g | Sugar: 2g
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