How To Make Cuban Black Beans

black beans

🥗Healthier: lentils

💰Cheaper: pinto beans

Lentils are lower in calories, while pinto beans are often less expensive.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil is healthier, while canola oil is more budget-friendly.

vinegar

🥗Healthier: lemon juice

💰Cheaper: apple cider vinegar

Lemon juice adds brightness, while apple cider vinegar is often less costly.

cilantro

🥗Healthier: parsley

💰Cheaper: green onions

Parsley offers a similar flavor profile, and green onions are generally less expensive.

Soak black beans overnight in water with thyme and bay leaves.

Bring the soaked beans to a boil in the soaking water, skimming off any foam that forms.

Reduce heat to a simmer and cook the beans until tender, about 1 hour.

Remove the Scotch bonnet and thyme stalks from the beans.

In a separate pan, heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil.

Add chopped onions and sauté until softened.

Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.

Add a teaspoon of brown sugar and a teaspoon of oregano.

Add chopped yellow pepper and a bit more oil if needed, then add a teaspoon of cumin.

Add 2 tablespoons of cider vinegar to the beans and mix well.

Mash a few beans to thicken the sauce and season with salt to taste.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary