Nut-Free Frijoles Rojos (Red Beans)

Get ready to savor the bold and comforting flavors of Nut-Free Frijoles Rojos (Red Beans), a hearty dish inspired by Latin American cuisine. This nut-free recipe uses dried red beans simmered to perfection with a rich blend of aromatics—like garlic, onion, and sweet red bell pepper—and spices such as cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano for a deep, smoky flavor. Slow-cooked in savory broth, the beans become tender and flavorful, while a finishing touch of fresh cilantro and bright lime juice adds an irresistible zing. Perfect as a gluten-free side dish or a standalone plant-based meal when paired with rice, this recipe offers a satisfying, protein-packed option that's easy to make and bursting with vibrant, wholesome ingredients. Ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep, Nut-Free Frijoles Rojos brings authentic, allergy-friendly comfort food to your table.

Nutriscore Rating: 81/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:120 mins

Total Time:135 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 cups dried red beans
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.25 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, juiced

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the dried red beans in cold water and leave them to soak in a large bowl filled with water for at least 8 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse the beans before cooking.

Step 2

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped red bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3

Stir in the cumin powder, dried oregano, smoked paprika, and bay leaf. Cook for another 1 minute to allow the spices to release their flavors.

Step 4

Add the drained red beans to the pot, then pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Stir well and bring to a boil.

Step 5

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer the beans for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender and the liquid has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6

Remove the bay leaf and discard it. Season the beans with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 7

Garnish the beans with freshly chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice before serving.

Step 8

Serve the nut-free frijoles rojos as a side dish with rice or as a part of a larger meal. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1778.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1812.8

Total Fat 35.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 5.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 5852.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 282.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 70.0g	0%
Total Sugars 22.7g
Protein 101.9g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 499.9mg	0%
Iron 25.9mg	0%
Potassium 6453.6mg	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: 17.1%

Protein: 21.9%

Carbs: 60.9%