Are you ready to transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Cuba with a single spoonful? Our Cuban Red Beans (Frijoles Colorados) recipe is more than just a dish—it's a celebration of flavor, tradition, and comfort that will make your kitchen smell like a Caribbean paradise. Imagine a pot of creamy, rich beans that tell a story of generations of Cuban home cooking, packed with aromatic spices and a depth of flavor that will have your family and friends begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Cuban
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups red beans, soaked overnight
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 cups water
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Drain the red beans that have been soaking overnight and rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess starch.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and green bell peppers, sautéing until the vegetables become soft and translucent, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the aromatic flavors.
- Introduce the soaked red beans to the pot, along with cumin, bay leaf, and 4 cups of water. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Bring the mixture to a full boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Allow the beans to simmer gently, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook the beans for approximately 60-75 minutes, or until they become tender and the liquid has reduced to a thick, creamy consistency.
- Season with salt to taste during the last 15 minutes of cooking, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving. The beans should be soft but not mushy, with a rich, flavorful broth.
- Serve hot as a side dish or main course, traditionally accompanied by white rice and perhaps a slice of avocado.
Tips
- Soaking is Essential: Always soak your red beans overnight to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility. This helps break down complex sugars that can cause digestive discomfort.
- Low and Slow is the Way to Go: Patience is key when cooking beans. Keep the heat low and let them simmer gently to achieve that perfect creamy texture without turning them mushy.
- Don't Salt Too Early: Add salt only in the last 15 minutes of cooking. Adding salt too early can make beans tough and prevent them from softening properly.
- Fresh Spices Matter: Use fresh cumin and garlic for the most vibrant flavor. If possible, toast your cumin seeds briefly before grinding for an extra flavor boost.
- Check Liquid Levels: Keep an eye on the water during cooking. If the beans look too dry, add a little hot water to prevent burning and maintain a creamy consistency.
- Serve Traditionally: For an authentic Cuban experience, serve your beans over white rice and consider adding a slice of avocado or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 103kcal
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
