Description
This Cuban Black Beans recipe offers a rich and comforting plant-based meal infused with smoky smoked turkey bacon and authentic Cuban spices. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it provides a hearty dish packed with protein and fiber, featuring traditional flavors enhanced with natural, simple ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
Beans and Liquids
- 2 cups canned black beans, drained and rinsed (or 1 cup dried black beans, soaked and cooked)
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
Smoky Flavor
- 4 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped into bite-sized pieces
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin (natural spice)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (natural spice)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt, to taste (natural)
- Black pepper, to taste (natural)
Other
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Natural gelling agent (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
- Prepare the Aromatics: Finely chop the onion, garlic, and green bell pepper. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat, then add the onion and green pepper. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, taking care not to let it brown.
- Add Smoked Turkey Bacon and Spices: Chop the smoked turkey bacon into bite-sized pieces and add them to the pot, stirring to release their smoky aroma. Sprinkle in the cumin, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper, stirring well to coat the ingredients.
- Introduce the Beans and Liquids: Add the drained black beans to the pot along with water or vegetable broth, apple cider vinegar, and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce. Mix everything thoroughly.
- Simmer and Develop Flavors: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover partially. Let it cook for at least 30 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash some of the beans lightly with a fork or stir in a small amount of natural gelling agent. Taste one last time and sprinkle with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley for a fresh finish.
Notes
- Use fresh, high-quality black beans for the best texture and flavor.
- Cook each step patiently to develop rich, layered taste.
- Do not skip the apple cider vinegar; it balances richness and brightens flavors.
- Simmer the beans low and slow for tender beans that absorb all seasonings.
- Adjust salt and pepper near the end to balance flavors perfectly.
- For an oil-free version, sauté vegetables in water or broth instead of olive oil.
- To thicken beans, mash some or add a small amount of natural gelling agent.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cuban
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Cuban Black Beans, plant-based beans, smoky black beans, vegetarian Cuban recipe, healthy bean stew
