Description
A flavorful and spicy Mexican Black Beans recipe featuring a blend of aromatic spices, fresh cilantro, and a hint of lime, perfect as a side dish or a hearty component in your meals. This quick and simple stovetop preparation enhances canned black beans with sautéed onions, jalapenos, and green chilies, delivering authentic Mexican flavors in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Beans and Aromatics
- 2 (15.5 ounce) cans black beans (do not rinse)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small white onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and minced
- 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh and Garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Juice from 1/2 lime
- 1/4 cup freshly crumbled Cotija cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the chopped white onion, minced garlic, and minced jalapenos until they soften, about 1-2 minutes. This step releases the flavors of the aromatics to build the base of the dish.
- Add Beans and Spices: Add both cans of black beans including their liquid, the diced green chilies, ground cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together well to combine the flavors evenly.
- Simmer Mixture: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat slightly and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the liquid to thicken slightly.
- Remove From Heat: Take the skillet off the heat to prepare for final seasoning and garnish.
- Finish with Fresh Ingredients: Stir in the chopped fresh cilantro and squeeze in the juice from half a lime to add brightness and freshness to the beans.
- Season to Taste: Add salt and black pepper, stirring well to incorporate and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the beans topped with freshly crumbled Cotija cheese and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a flavorful, authentic Mexican touch.
Notes
- Do not rinse the canned black beans to retain their flavor and starch which helps thicken the dish.
- You can adjust the heat by reducing the number of jalapenos or omitting the cayenne pepper.
- Cotija cheese can be substituted with feta if unavailable.
- This recipe pairs well with rice, tacos, or as a side for grilled meats.
- For a smoother texture, mash some of the beans during simmering.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
