Colombian Frijoles

Dive into the heart of Colombian cuisine with this authentic Colombian Frijoles recipe, a comforting, flavor-packed dish that showcases tender red or pinto beans simmered to perfection with aromatic garlic, onions, and tomatoes. Infused with the earthy warmth of cumin and the subtle sweetness of green plantains, this traditional recipe offers a delightful balance of savory and sweet in every bite. Optional chorizo adds a smoky depth, while fresh cilantro brightens the dish just before serving. Perfectly paired with white rice, avocado slices, and fried plantains, this hearty classic is a celebration of bold flavors and homestyle cooking. Ready in just a few steps, this gluten-free and protein-rich dish is a must-try for lovers of authentic Latin American comfort food.

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:120 mins

Total Time:140 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 cups dried red or pinto beans
• 8 cups water
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium, finely chopped white onion
• 3 cloves, minced garlic
• 2 medium, finely chopped tomatoes
• 1 small, peeled and cut into small pieces green plantain
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1.5 teaspoons salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.25 cup, chopped cilantro
• 1 link, sliced chorizo (optional)
• 0.5 cup hogao (optional for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the dried beans thoroughly under cold water. In a large bowl, soak the beans overnight in enough water to cover them. This helps soften the beans and reduces cooking time.

Step 2

Drain the soaked beans and place them in a large pot. Add the 8 cups of water and the baking soda. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low heat and let the beans simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until they are tender.

Step 3

While the beans are cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4

Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken into a sauce.

Step 5

Once the beans are tender, add the sautéed onion-tomato mixture to the pot along with the plantain pieces, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.

Step 6

If using chorizo, add the sliced chorizo to the pot for additional flavor. Simmer the mixture for another 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the plantains are tender and the broth thickens slightly.

Step 7

Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Stir in the chopped cilantro just before serving.

Step 8

Serve the Colombian frijoles hot, optionally garnished with hogao. This dish pairs beautifully with white rice, avocado slices, and fried plantains for a complete Colombian meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(3052.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2211.9

Total Fat 54.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 12.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 17.0g
Cholesterol 30mg	0%
Sodium 6222.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 337.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 75.1g	0%
Total Sugars 49.9g
Protein 102.0g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 604.1mg	0%
Iron 25.9mg	0%
Potassium 7693.7mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 22.0%

Protein: 18.1%

Carbs: 59.9%