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Delicious Easy Cuban Black Beans served with rice and garnished with fresh herbs.

Cuban Style Black Beans

A quick and flavorful Cuban black bean dish that is perfect for busy weeknights, made with simple ingredients and full of big flavor.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Cuban, Latin
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 2 cans black beans Canned works great. If using dried beans, cook them first.
  • 1 medium onion White or yellow is fine. Red onion works too.
  • 1 medium green bell pepper Can substitute with red or yellow bell pepper.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Don’t hold back; it adds great flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon cumin The cozy, warm backbone of the pot.
  • 1 teaspoon oregano Another key spice.
  • 1 leaf bay leaf Optional but adds flavor.
  • 1 cup broth or water Broth gives more flavor; water can also be used.
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice or vinegar For acidity at the end.
Optional extras
  • 1 pinch sugar To balance any bitterness.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Makes it taste richer.
  • 1 pinch chili flakes For heat.

Method
 

Cooking
  1. Warm a little oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and green bell pepper. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until softened.
  2. Add minced garlic, cumin, oregano, and a bay leaf if using. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the black beans and their liquid if you want a creamier texture. Otherwise, drain and rinse and add broth. A mix of both is recommended.
  4. Bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 15 to 25 minutes, stirring as needed, adding more broth or water if it gets too thick.
  5. For a thicker texture, mash a small scoop of beans against the pot's side, then stir it back in.
  6. Turn off the heat and add lime juice or a splash of vinegar. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Notes

Black beans can be stored in the fridge for up to 4-5 days and frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently with added liquid if thickened.