Description
This Mexican Black Beans recipe is a simple, flavorful dish that combines black beans with fresh vegetables and aromatic spices. Perfect as a side or main dish, it is quick to prepare and packed with traditional Mexican flavors such as cumin, oregano, and fresh cilantro. The recipe uses healthy oils and offers an optional topping of cheese for added richness.
Ingredients
Primary Ingredients
- Cooking spray
- 2 teaspoons olive oil or avocado oil
- ½ cup yellow onion, diced small (about ¼ medium onion)
- 1 roma tomato, diced small
- 2 garlic cloves, peeled and finely minced or grated
- 1 (15-ounce) can no salt added black beans (do not drain)
- ¼ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro leaves and stems
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon fine salt
Optional Toppings
- Finely shredded Mexican blend cheese or crumbled/grated cotija cheese
- Chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Place a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, spray with cooking spray and add the oil, swirling the pan to coat evenly.
- Sauté Onions: Add the diced yellow onion to the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the onions begin to soften and become translucent.
- Add Tomato and Garlic: Stir in the diced roma tomato and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 1 minute to release the flavors.
- Add Beans and Spices: Pour in the undrained black beans, then add the chopped cilantro, ground cumin, dried oregano, and fine salt. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the onions to fully soften.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with additional chopped cilantro if desired. Optionally, top with shredded Mexican blend cheese or crumbled cotija cheese before serving.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Notes
- This recipe uses no-salt-added beans, so adjust salt to taste depending on your dietary preference.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili powder or chopped jalapeño when cooking the tomatoes and garlic.
- Using fresh cilantro both in the cooking and as a garnish enhances the authentic flavor.
- Leftover beans can be repurposed into burritos, salads, or served as a dip.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
