Authentic Cuban Black Beans Recipe: A Family Tradition Made Easy

When I reflect on my childhood, the warmth of my grandmother’s kitchen and the aroma of her delicious black beans instantly come to mind. While I might have been a picky eater who shied away from meat back then, she always ensured my plate was piled high with fluffy white rice, savory black beans, and a sprinkling of shredded chicken. I fondly remember trying to offload my chicken onto my brother, only for him to playfully warn, “I’m going to tell on you!” Those were simpler times, filled with laughter and incredible food that cemented these beans as a true comfort staple.

Cuban black beans were, in fact, the very first dish I ever learned to prepare. You can imagine, then, how many iterations and variations of this beloved recipe I’ve perfected over the years. Yet, among them all, the recipe I’m thrilled to share with you today stands out as my absolute favorite. It takes my Cuban grandmother’s foundational recipe – that perfect base of aromatics and slow-cooked goodness – and elevates it with my own unique additions: a touch of sugar for balance and a hint of tomato sauce for an extra layer of depth and richness. This combination creates a flavor profile that is both traditional and wonderfully enhanced, making it a truly special dish.

The Heart of Cuban Cuisine: Why We Love Black Beans

Cuban black beans, or “frijoles negros,” are more than just a side dish; they are a cornerstone of Cuban culinary heritage, deeply ingrained in the culture and daily life. They represent comfort, tradition, and the soul of a Cuban meal. Their deep, rich flavor and creamy texture make them an indispensable accompaniment to nearly any dish, from simple white rice and roasted chicken to more elaborate preparations like pork roasts and fried plantains. Beyond their incredible taste, black beans are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with protein, fiber, and essential minerals, making them a healthy and satisfying addition to any diet. They are also naturally vegan, offering a fantastic plant-based option that is both flavorful and filling.

This recipe aims to capture that authentic, homemade taste that takes you straight to a Cuban kitchen. While many recipes exist, mine strikes a perfect balance between the traditional savory notes and a subtle sweetness, ensuring a complexity that is utterly irresistible. The addition of tomato sauce provides a beautiful color and a depth of umami that elevates the entire dish, setting it apart from more simplistic versions.

Mastering the Flavor: Sofrito and Spices

The secret to truly outstanding Cuban black beans lies in the sofrito – the aromatic foundation of many Latin American dishes. This vibrant blend of finely diced or pureed onions, garlic, green bell peppers, and tomatoes is slowly sautéed in olive oil, allowing their flavors to meld and deepen. It’s a step that cannot be rushed, as it builds the very essence of the beans’ taste. My recipe simplifies this by using a food processor, ensuring a smooth, consistent base that infuses every bean with flavor.

Beyond the sofrito, the judicious use of spices is crucial. Cumin and oregano are non-negotiables, providing that quintessential earthy and slightly pungent aroma that defines Cuban cooking. Bay leaves add a subtle, herbaceous note that rounds out the flavor profile. These spices, when combined with the rich sofrito, create a symphony of tastes that makes these black beans truly unforgettable. And, of course, salt and pepper are added to taste, allowing you to perfectly season the dish to your preference.

5 from 1 vote

Cuban Black Beans

By

Julie Maestre

Experience the authentic taste of homemade Cuban black beans, prepared effortlessly in a pressure cooker. This recipe delivers a delicious, quick, and easy version of the classic Cuban side dish, perfect for any meal.

Prep:

10
minutes

Cook:

1
hour

Total:

1
hour

5
minutes

Servings:

6
people

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Ingredients

▢

1
lb
Dried Black Beans
▢

8
cups
water
▢

1
small onion
▢

1
small tomato
▢

4
cloves
garlic
▢

1/2
green bell pepper
▢

1/4
cup
cilantro
▢

1/4
cup
olive oil
▢

1/4
cup
dry white wine
▢

1/4
cup
tomato sauce
▢

1/2
tsp
oregano
▢

1
tsp
cumin
▢

2
leaves
bay
▢

1/2
tsp
sugar
▢

salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Rinse the dried black beans thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris. Then, place the cleaned beans in a pressure cooker along with 8 cups of fresh water. Cook for approximately 40 minutes, or according to your pressure cooker’s specific instructions for dried beans, until they are tender but still hold their shape.
While the beans are cooking, prepare your sofrito. Combine the small onion, small tomato, 4 cloves of garlic, half a green bell pepper, and 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro in a food processor. Process these ingredients until they form a smooth, vibrant puree. With the food processor still running, slowly drizzle in 1/4 cup of olive oil to emulsify and create a rich, aromatic base.
Heat a large skillet over high heat. Once hot, add the vegetable puree (sofrito) and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step is crucial for developing the deep flavors and aromas that define Cuban black beans.
Once the beans are cooked and the pressure has naturally released (or quick-released as per your cooker’s guide), carefully stir the sautéed veggie mixture into the cooked beans. Add the 1/4 cup of dry white wine, 1/4 cup of tomato sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of oregano, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 2 bay leaves, and 1/2 teaspoon of sugar. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
Return the pot to medium heat, leaving it uncovered. Allow the beans to simmer for an additional 20 minutes, or until the liquid has thickened to your desired consistency and the flavors have fully melded. Serve hot and enjoy the authentic taste of these homemade Cuban black beans!

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Nutrition

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Author:

Julie Maestre

Prep Time:

10
minutes

Cook Time:

1
hour

Total Time:

1
hour

5
minutes

Course:
Entree, Side Dish

Cuisine:
Cuban

Servings:

6
people

Calories:
356

Keyword:
Easy Cuban Black Beans

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Tips for Perfect Cuban Black Beans Every Time

Soaking Beans: While a pressure cooker significantly reduces cooking time, soaking dried black beans for a few hours or overnight can further improve their texture and make them even more tender. If you don’t have a pressure cooker, soaking is highly recommended.
Don’t Skimp on the Sofrito: The vegetable puree is the flavor backbone. Make sure to sauté it until fragrant and slightly caramelized to extract maximum flavor. This step truly develops the depth of the beans.
Adjust Seasoning: Always taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end of cooking. The amount needed can vary based on the beans and your personal preference. The dry white wine adds a subtle acidity that balances the richness, and the sugar rounds out the flavors beautifully.
Consistency is Key: If your beans are too thin after simmering, you can mash a small portion of them against the side of the pot with a spoon to release some starch, which will help thicken the mixture naturally. If they are too thick, add a little hot water or vegetable broth until desired consistency is reached.
Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: While dried oregano is used in the recipe for its concentrated flavor, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro as a garnish just before serving adds a burst of freshness and aroma.

Serving Suggestions for Your Cuban Black Beans

These versatile black beans can be served in countless ways, making them a staple in any kitchen:

The Classic Trio: The most traditional way to enjoy Cuban black beans is alongside fluffy white rice and a protein like roasted chicken, pan-fried fish, or succulent pork. The beans’ rich sauce is perfect for mixing into the rice.
As a Main Dish: For a hearty and satisfying vegetarian or vegan meal, serve a generous portion of these black beans over a bed of rice, topped with avocado slices, a dollop of vegan sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
Taco & Burrito Bowls: Elevate your Mexican-inspired meals by adding a scoop of Cuban black beans to your taco or burrito bowls. Their robust flavor pairs wonderfully with other Latin American ingredients.
Soup Base: Leftover black beans can be thinned with vegetable broth and blended to create a creamy, flavorful black bean soup. Garnish with a swirl of olive oil and croutons.
Empanada or Arepa Filling: These beans make an excellent, flavorful filling for empanadas, arepas, or even savory turnovers.

Storing and Reheating Your Homemade Beans

One of the best things about making a big batch of Cuban black beans is that they store beautifully. Allow the beans to cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days, and their flavor often deepens over time, making them even more delicious as leftovers!

For longer storage, black beans freeze exceptionally well. Portion them into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and store for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator (or use your microwave’s defrost setting), then gently warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to restore the desired consistency.

A Timeless Classic on Your Table

This Cuban black beans recipe is more than just a list of ingredients and instructions; it’s a journey back to the heart of home, flavor, and tradition. It’s about bringing the comforting taste of a beloved cuisine to your own table, whether you’re Cuban or simply a lover of rich, aromatic food. With its deep flavors, tender beans, and simple preparation made even easier with a pressure cooker, this recipe promises to become a cherished favorite in your household, just as it is in mine.

So gather your ingredients, take a moment to savor the intoxicating aromas as they fill your kitchen, and get ready to enjoy a dish that embodies warmth, culture, and incredible taste. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below – I’d love to hear how these authentic Cuban black beans turned out for you!