Cuban Beans
A flavorful Cuban black bean dish with savory, smoky, and tangy notes, perfect for a hearty, plant-based meal or as a side with rice and plantain chips.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion, crushed garlic, and chopped green pepper in 1 tablespoon of oil until fragrant.
- Add 1 teaspoon of sugar, then include the drained black beans, pimento, chopped olives, and green or black olives.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook over low heat for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Squeeze fresh orange juice over the mixture before serving.
- Serve with plantain chips.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider using smoked paprika or cumin to enhance the flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños. You can substitute canned black beans with dried beans, but ensure to soak and cook them beforehand. If pimento isn't available, roasted red peppers can work as a substitute.
Serving Suggestions
These Cuban beans pair beautifully with plantain chips for a crunchy contrast. Serve alongside rice for a more filling meal, or as a side to grilled meats. A fresh salad or avocado slices complement the dish nicely, enhancing its vibrant flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. You can also microwave them until heated through, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cuban Beans contains roughly 746 calories, with 45g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (118% of the Daily Value), protein (90% of the Daily Value), and potassium (66% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 33g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan as it uses plant-based ingredients. Ensure your olives and any other additions are also vegan-friendly. You can also include more vegetables like zucchini or carrots for extra nutrition.
How can I make the beans spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating chopped fresh jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce during cooking. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes before serving for an extra kick.
What can I serve with Cuban beans?
These beans are versatile! Serve them with rice, grilled chicken, or fish for a complete meal. They also pair well with a fresh avocado salad or homemade ribbon pasta for an interesting twist.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).