Are you ready to transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Spain with a single, soul-warming dish? Our Spanish-Style Beans recipe is not just a meal—it's a culinary adventure that promises to elevate your home cooking from ordinary to extraordinary! Packed with rich, aromatic spices and a depth of flavor that will make your family and friends beg for seconds, this traditional recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 70 mins
Cuisine: Spanish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups dry beans (e.g., pinto or black beans)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 4 cups vegetable broth or water
Instructions
- Sort and rinse the dry beans thoroughly, removing any small stones or damaged beans. Place beans in a large bowl and cover with cold water, allowing them to soak overnight or for at least 8 hours.
- After soaking, drain and rinse the beans again under cold running water to remove any excess starch.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and chopped bell pepper to the pot, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant and the vegetables start to soften.
- Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper, allowing the spices to bloom and release their aromatic oils for about 30 seconds.
- Add the soaked and drained beans to the pot, then pour in the vegetable broth or water. Ensure the liquid covers the beans by at least 1-2 inches.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let simmer gently for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check the beans periodically and add more liquid if needed. Beans are done when they are tender and can be easily mashed with a fork.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. For a creamier texture, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot.
- Remove from heat and let the beans rest for 10 minutes before serving. They can be served hot as a side dish or main course.
Tips
- Soaking is Non-Negotiable: Always soak your dry beans overnight. This not only reduces cooking time but also helps eliminate those hard-to-digest compounds.
- Fresh Spices are Key: Use freshly ground cumin and paprika for the most vibrant flavor profile. The difference is remarkable!
- Low and Slow is the Secret: Simmer your beans gently to ensure they become tender without breaking apart.
- Liquid Level Matters: Always keep beans covered by 1-2 inches of liquid during cooking to prevent drying out.
- Don't Salt Too Early: Add salt towards the end of cooking to prevent beans from becoming tough.
- Optional Flavor Boosters: Consider adding a bay leaf or a small piece of ham bone for extra depth of flavor.
- Make Ahead Friendly: These beans taste even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare in advance!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 74g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
