Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Cuba! This sensational Clams with Black Beans recipe is not just a meal—it's an explosion of flavors that combines the briny freshness of perfectly cooked clams with the rich, earthy essence of black beans. Whether you're a seafood lover, a Cuban cuisine enthusiast, or simply someone looking to impress dinner guests, this dish promises to be a show-stopper that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Cuban
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb clams, cleaned
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tsp cumin
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the clams. Rinse them under cold water to remove any sand or debris. Discard any clams that are open and do not close when tapped.
- In a large skillet or pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
- Stir in the cumin and mix well to combine the spices with the vegetables. Cook for another minute to allow the cumin to release its aroma.
- Add the drained and rinsed black beans to the skillet, stirring to combine with the sautéed vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to heat through for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the black bean mixture is heated, carefully add the cleaned clams to the skillet. Stir gently to distribute the clams evenly among the beans and vegetables.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and increase the heat to medium-high. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the clams have opened up. Discard any clams that remain closed.
- Once the clams are cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- To serve, spoon the clams and black bean mixture into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of flavor and color.
- Enjoy your Cuban-style clams with black beans as a delightful main dish or a hearty appetizer!
Tips
- Clam Freshness is Key: Always choose fresh, live clams and discard any that are open before cooking or don't close when tapped.
- Timing Matters: Cook the clams just until they open to prevent them from becoming tough and rubbery.
- Spice it Up: Don't be afraid to adjust the cumin to your taste. For a more authentic Cuban flavor, you can add a pinch of smoked paprika.
- Cilantro Freshness: Add fresh cilantro just before serving to maintain its bright flavor and color.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with crusty bread or over rice to soak up the delicious bean and clam juices.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements this dish perfectly.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 45mg
