Spicy Black Beans
Spicy Black Beans feature hearty beans simmered with aromatic spices and onions, offering bold flavors perfect for a comforting vegetarian main or side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 5-quart saucepan over medium-high heat, cook onions in oil until they are lightly browned, about 20 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add chicken broth, black beans, oregano, cumin, tomato paste, cinnamon, and cardamom pods.
- Cover and bring to a boil over high heat; reduce heat and simmer until beans mash easily, about 4 to 5 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers. If you don't have cardamom pods, ground cardamom can be used as a substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. Stir in some chopped cilantro before serving for freshness. This dish is excellent for meal prepping and pairs well with many Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spicy black beans over rice or with tortillas for a complete meal. They also make a great topping for nachos or a filling for burritos. Pair them with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a balanced dish. These beans are a wonderful complement to the flavors found in dishes like Matt's Mexican Surprise.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. You can also microwave them in a covered dish, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Black Beans contains roughly 34 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
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 use canned black beans instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned black beans to save time. If using canned, reduce the cooking time to about 30 minutes after adding the beans, as they are already cooked. Just ensure to rinse and drain them before adding to the pot.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make the spicy black beans vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth. The flavor will still be rich and delicious, and you'll maintain the same cooking process for the beans.
What can I serve with spicy black beans?
These beans are versatile and can be served with rice, cornbread, or tortillas. For a complete meal, pair them with grilled meats or a fresh avocado salad. They also work well as a side dish to complement main courses like Chicken Sopa Casserole.
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).