The Best Black Beans I've Ever Had

Discover the rich, smoky flavors of "The Best Black Beans I've Ever Had"—a hearty and satisfying dish that's perfect as a side or a standout main. Made from scratch with tender dried black beans, aromatic sautéed onions, garlic, and a touch of zesty jalapeño, this recipe is elevated with warm spices like cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Slow-simmered in vegetable broth with fragrant bay leaves, the beans develop deep, complex flavors, while a finishing splash of fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro adds brightness and balance. Perfect for meal prep, tacos, or rice bowls, these black beans are simple to make and irresistibly delicious. Cooking from dry beans has never been more rewarding!

Nutriscore Rating: 84/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:90 mins

Total Time:110 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 cups dried black beans
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium jalapeño, seeded and minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 leaves bay leaves
• 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth or water
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 0.25 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the dried black beans thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Place beans in a large bowl, cover with water, and soak overnight (or for at least 6 hours). Drain and rinse the beans before use.

Step 2

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent.

Step 3

Add the minced garlic and jalapeño to the pot and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4

Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, and dried oregano, allowing the spices to toast for about 30 seconds.

Step 5

Add the soaked and rinsed black beans to the pot, followed by the bay leaves and vegetable broth (or water). Stir to combine.

Step 6

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

Step 7

Season the beans with kosher salt and black pepper. Continue to simmer for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the beans are tender and the liquid has thickened to your liking. If the beans become too dry during cooking, add more broth or water, 1/2 cup at a time.

Step 8

Remove the bay leaves and stir in the fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 9

Serve warm as a side dish, or use in any recipe that calls for black beans. Garnish with additional cilantro or a wedge of lime if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2067.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	914.2

Total Fat 32.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 5.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.5g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2296.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 124.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 39.5g	0%
Total Sugars 15.1g
Protein 39.6g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 308.6mg	0%
Iron 15.2mg	0%
Potassium 2744.9mg	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: 31.1%

Protein: 16.6%

Carbs: 52.3%