Stewed Black Beans

Authentic Stewed Black Beans Recipe from Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Servings: 6

Introduction

Stewed black beans are a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for a comforting meal. This recipe is packed with flavor and is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

History

Black beans have been a staple in Latin American cuisine for centuries. They are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, and salads. Stewed black beans are a popular dish in many Latin American countries, where they are often served with rice, plantains, and other traditional foods.

Ingredients

450 g / 1 lb black beans, pre-soaked overnight and drained
1 whole onion, peeled
water
2 tbsp ground cumin
2 tsp chili powder
2 tsp dried oregano
3 tbsp honey
2 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp oil
4 spring onions, chopped
2 tbsp freshly chopped coriander (cilantro)
1 tbsp garlic salt
1 tbsp salt
1 tbsp soy sauce

How to prepare

Place the beans and the whole onion in a large saucepan, covering with 5 cm / 2 inches of water.
Boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1 hour, checking the water level every 20 minutes, stirring and topping up as necessary.
Do not add any salt.
Add the cumin, chilli powder, and oregano. Mix well and continue to simmer for another hour.
Add the honey and lime juice. Mix well and simmer for another hour.
Heat the oil in a frying pan. Add the spring onions, coriander, and garlic powder. Sauté for 4 – 5 minutes.
Add the onion mixture to the beans, together with the salt and soy sauce. Mix well and simmer for another hour.
Adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, lemon juice, soy sauce, and other spices to taste.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or jalapenos for extra flavor.
Stir in cooked bacon or chorizo for a smoky, savory twist.
Top with avocado slices, sour cream, or shredded cheese for a creamy finish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the black beans overnight helps to reduce cooking time and ensures that they cook evenly.

- Be sure to check the water level in the saucepan regularly while simmering the beans to prevent them from drying out.

- Adjust the seasoning to taste by adding more salt, lemon juice, soy sauce, or other spices as needed.

- For a thicker consistency, mash some of the beans with a fork or potato masher before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Stewed black beans can be served as a main dish with rice, tortillas, or plantains. They also make a great side dish for grilled meats or roasted vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the beans slowly over low heat helps to develop the flavors and ensures that they are tender and flavorful.

- Sautéing the onions, garlic, and spices before adding them to the beans helps to enhance their flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use canned black beans instead of dried beans, but be sure to rinse them well before using.

- Substitute vegetable broth for water for added flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Stewed black beans can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, or a squeeze of lime juice for a pop of color and flavor. - Serve in individual bowls or on a platter with rice, tortillas, or other accompaniments.

Pairing Recommendations

Stewed black beans pair well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

- Serve with a side of rice, quinoa, or cornbread for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover stewed black beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

250

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 45g

- Dietary Fiber: 12g

- Sugars: 6g

Fats

- Total Fat: 3g

- Saturated Fat: 0g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 12g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 4%

- Vitamin C: 8%

- Calcium: 6%

- Iron: 15%

Alergens

Soy

Summary

Stewed black beans are a nutritious and delicious dish that is high in fiber, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. They are a great source of plant-based protein and are low in fat and calories.

Summary

Stewed black beans are a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a comforting meal. This recipe is easy to make and is packed with flavor, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy this hearty and satisfying dish with your favorite accompaniments for a delicious and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Stewed Black Beans. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Mexico. My grandmother, who was known for her delicious cooking, had invited me into the kitchen to help her prepare dinner for the family.

As I watched her work, I was mesmerized by the way she effortlessly chopped vegetables, stirred pots, and seasoned dishes with such precision. I asked her how she knew what ingredients to use and how to cook everything just right. She smiled and told me that she had learned from her own mother, who had learned from her mother before her. It was a tradition that had been passed down through the generations, and now it was my turn to learn.

On that particular day, we were making one of my favorite dishes - Stewed Black Beans. As my grandmother showed me how to rinse and soak the beans, she began to tell me the story of how she had first learned to make this dish. She said that it was a recipe that had been given to her by a dear friend many years ago, and it had quickly become a family favorite.

The secret, she told me, was in the seasoning. She explained that the key to making the beans taste just right was to sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers in a little bit of oil before adding the beans and water. This would help to bring out the flavors of the vegetables and create a rich, savory broth that the beans could simmer in.

As we cooked together, my grandmother shared with me the importance of using fresh, quality ingredients in all of our dishes. She taught me how to select the best beans, how to check for ripeness in the vegetables, and how to season with just the right amount of salt and pepper. She showed me how to taste as I cooked, adjusting the seasonings until everything was just perfect.

After a few hours of simmering on the stove, the beans were finally ready. My grandmother ladled them into bowls and sprinkled them with a little bit of fresh cilantro. The aroma that filled the kitchen was absolutely intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to dig in and taste the fruits of our labor.

As I took my first bite, I was immediately transported back to my childhood, to the flavors and smells of my grandmother's kitchen. The beans were tender and flavorful, the broth rich and savory. It was a dish that warmed me from the inside out, a dish that tasted like home.

From that day on, Stewed Black Beans became a staple in our household. Whenever I missed my grandmother, whenever I longed for a taste of the past, I would make a pot of beans and remember all that she had taught me. The recipe became a part of me, a reminder of where I came from and the traditions that had shaped me.

Now, as I pass on this recipe to my own grandchildren, I do so with a heart full of love and gratitude. I hope that they will cherish this dish as much as I have, that they will feel the connection to their roots and their family history with every bite. And I hope that, one day, they will pass it on to their own children, keeping the tradition alive for generations to come.

For me, Stewed Black Beans will always be more than just a recipe. It is a story, a memory, a taste of home. And I am grateful every day for the lessons my grandmother taught me in her kitchen all those years ago.