Imagine a recipe that transports you straight to the heart of Mexican cuisine, where every spoonful tells a story of family, tradition, and love. Abuelo Pelez's Black Beans are not just a side dish – they're a culinary experience that will transform your kitchen into a vibrant, flavor-packed haven. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a curious food enthusiast, this authentic recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and tantalize your taste buds with its rich, comforting essence.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 70 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups black beans, soaked overnight
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water as needed
Instructions
- Drain the black beans that have been soaked overnight and rinse thoroughly under cold running water to remove any excess starch.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic, which can create a bitter taste.
- Add the soaked black beans to the pot, along with enough fresh water to cover the beans by about 2 inches. The water should be clear and clean.
- Sprinkle in the cumin, and add a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the beans.
- Bring the beans to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Allow the beans to simmer gently.
- Cook the beans for approximately 60 minutes, stirring occasionally and checking the water level. Add more hot water if the beans begin to look dry, ensuring they remain covered.
- Test the beans for tenderness by pressing a bean against the side of the pot with a spoon. They should be soft and creamy, with no hard center.
- Once the beans are fully cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Remove from heat and let the beans rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot as a side dish, or as a main course with rice, garnished with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime if desired.
Tips
- Soaking is Key: Always soak your beans overnight to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility. This helps break down complex sugars that can cause digestive discomfort.
- Fresh Water Matters: Always use fresh, clean water when cooking beans. Avoid using the soaking water to prevent potential gas-causing compounds.
- Low and Slow is the Way: Gentle simmering is crucial for creating creamy, tender beans. Avoid rapid boiling, which can break down the beans and make them mushy.
- Season Gradually: Add salt towards the end of cooking to prevent the beans from becoming tough. Cumin adds an authentic Mexican flavor, but feel free to experiment with other spices.
- Don't Rush the Process: Patience is vital. Allow the beans to cook slowly and rest after cooking to develop deep, rich flavors.
- Storage Tip: These beans taste even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make a larger batch. They freeze wonderfully for up to 3 months.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with white rice, fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or serve as a hearty main dish with warm tortillas for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 230kcal
Carbohydrates: 41g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
