The perfect Cuban-inspired side dish, these Easy Cuban Black Beans are delicious and pair beautifully with rice for a comforting, plant-based meal!
Easy Cuban Black Beans: Quick, Classic, and So Versatile
Cuban cuisine has always been one of my favorites, and so have Cuban black beans! 🖤 I’ve loved beans for a long time (seriously, they’re one of my favorite foods), but Cuban black beans are extra special for me. When I visited Cuba, I ate them everywhere—and I mean everywhere. The family I stayed with served them with every meal, and honestly, I couldn’t get enough.
Ever since, I’ve been trying to recreate those perfect beans, and this recipe is the closest I’ve come. Using canned beans makes it a total time-saver, and the result? Just plain irresistible. Whether served over rice or as a side, these black beans are my way of bringing a little slice of Cuba to the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Packed with Flavor: These Cuban black beans are seasoned with cumin, oregano, and a splash of red wine vinegar, creating a rich, savory taste.
Quick and Easy: Using canned black beans means this recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.
Versatile Side Dish: Serve these beans over fluffy white rice, alongside grilled vegetables, or as a filling for tacos or burritos.
Authentic Vibes: Inspired by traditional Cuban cooking, this recipe brings bold, comforting flavors to your kitchen.
Naturally Vegan and Gluten-Free: A wholesome dish that everyone can enjoy!
What is a Cuban Sofrito?
A Cuban sofrito is the flavorful foundation of many classic dishes in Cuban cuisine. It’s made by sautéing a mix of finely chopped onion, green bell pepper, and garlic in olive oil until fragrant and softened. This trio of ingredients creates a savory, aromatic base that infuses dishes like black beans, picadillo, and soups with their signature depth of flavor. Sometimes, spices like cumin, oregano, and bay leaf are added to enhance the richness. In Cuban cooking, sofrito isn’t just an ingredient—it’s the heart of the dish!
Ingredient Highlight: Cumin
Cumin is the unsung hero of this dish, adding its warm, earthy notes to the black beans. Widely used in Cuban and Latin American cooking, cumin balances the flavors of the beans and aromatics while giving the dish its signature depth. Just a teaspoon or two makes all the difference in bringing these beans to life!
Madly Delicious Must-Know Tips and Questions
- Adjusting Seasoning: If you prefer a bolder flavor, add an extra splash of red wine vinegar or a pinch of cayenne for a little heat.
- For Creamier Beans: Mash a few of the beans with the back of a spoon while cooking to create a thicker, creamier texture.
- Rice Pairing: Traditional Cuban black beans are served over white rice, but you can use brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a twist.
Can I Use Dried Beans?
Yes! Soak dried black beans overnight, then cook them until tender before starting the recipe.
What if I Don’t Have Red Wine Vinegar?
You can substitute with apple cider vinegar or lime juice for a similar tangy flavor.
Let’s Dish: Did You Know?
Black beans, or “frijoles negros,” are a staple in Cuban cuisine and are often served as a hearty side dish or main course. In traditional recipes, black beans are simmered with a sofrito—a fragrant mix of onion, green bell pepper, and garlic—and spices to create a rich, flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with rice. Cuban families often prepare large batches to enjoy throughout the week, making them a practical and delicious favorite.
Bringing Cuban Flavor to Your Table? Try my Easy Cuban Black Beans!
Ready to serve up some authentic flavor with these Easy Cuban Black Beans? Tag me on Instagram @madly__delicious with #UnleashTheDelicious and #MadlyDelicious—I’d love to see how you enjoy this classic dish!
More Bean Recipes
Gigantes Plaki (Greek Beans with Fire-Roasted Tomatoes)
Chimichurri Lentil Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Hearty Vegan 15-Bean Soup with Tomatoes
Easy Cuban Black Beans
Equipment
- Medium pot
Ingredients
- 2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed
- ½ cup white or yellow onion, chopped
- ½ cup green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ jalapeño, diced (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1½ cup water
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 large bay leaf
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1-2 splashes red wine vinegar
- Cilantro, for garnish
- Serve with or over white rice
Instructions
- Prepare the Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a medium-sized pot over medium heat. Add ½ cup chopped onion, ½ cup chopped green bell pepper, 2 minced garlic cloves and jalapeño if using. Sauté for 3–5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Simmer the Beans: Stir in 2 cans of black beans (drained and rinsed), 1½ cups water, 1 large bay leaf, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Finish with Vinegar: Remove the bay leaf and stir in 1–2 splashes of red wine vinegar. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the beans hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, over or alongside white rice.