If you're searching for a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional refried beans, look no further! Our Black Beans recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor that will elevate any meal. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a savory dish that’s perfect as a side, a filling for tacos, or even a dip for your favorite tortilla chips. Trust us, once you try this simple yet satisfying recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Drain and rinse the black beans thoroughly in a colander, ensuring all excess liquid is removed. Set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a medium-sized skillet over medium heat. Allow the oil to shimmer and become hot but not smoking.
- Add chopped onions to the skillet and sauté until they become translucent and slightly softened, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Mince the garlic cloves finely and add them to the skillet with the onions. Stir continuously to prevent garlic from burning.
- Sprinkle cumin over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring to distribute the spice evenly and release its aromatic qualities.
- Add the drained black beans to the skillet, gently stirring to combine with the onion, garlic, and cumin mixture.
- Using a potato masher or the back of a wooden spoon, partially mash the beans to create a rustic, slightly chunky texture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, continuing to stir and mash the beans.
- Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are heated through and have reached your desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.
- Serve immediately as a side dish, in tacos, burritos, or as a dip with tortilla chips.
Tips
- Rinse Thoroughly: Make sure to drain and rinse the black beans well to remove excess sodium and improve their flavor.
- Sauté for Flavor: Sautéing the onions and garlic until they are fragrant is key to building a rich flavor base for your beans.
- Customize the Spice: Feel free to adjust the cumin and add other spices like chili powder or smoked paprika for an extra kick!
- Texture Preference: For a creamier consistency, mash the beans more thoroughly; for a chunkier texture, mash them lightly.
- Fresh Garnish: Don’t skip the fresh cilantro! It adds a burst of freshness that complements the beans beautifully.
- Versatile Usage: These black beans can be used in various dishes—try them in burritos, enchiladas, or even as a topping for salads!
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the beans in advance and reheat them when needed, making them a great option for meal prep!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 130kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 8g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
