Get ready to transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Mexico with this incredibly easy and mouthwatering Crockpot Mexican Red Beans recipe! Imagine coming home to a kitchen filled with rich, aromatic spices and a hearty dish that practically cooks itself. Whether you're a busy professional, a home cook looking for simple yet delicious meals, or someone who craves authentic Mexican comfort food, this recipe is your ticket to a flavor-packed culinary adventure that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried red beans, soaked overnight
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the soaked red beans thoroughly under cold water, removing any debris or damaged beans.
- In a large skillet, sauté chopped onions until translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release aromatic flavors.
- Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to the crockpot, then add the rinsed red beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour enough water or chicken broth to cover the beans by about 2 inches, ensuring all ingredients are fully submerged.
- Cover the crockpot and set to low heat. Cook for 7-8 hours, or until beans are tender and have absorbed the flavors of the spices and vegetables.
- Periodically check the liquid level during cooking, adding more water if needed to prevent beans from drying out.
- Once beans are soft and creamy, taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or chili powder as desired.
- Serve hot as a side dish, over rice, or as a hearty vegetarian main course. Optional: garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions.
Tips
- Soak Beans Properly: Always soak dried beans overnight to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility. Discard the soaking water and rinse thoroughly before cooking.
- Layer Flavors: Sautéing onions and garlic before adding them to the crockpot helps develop a deeper, more complex flavor profile.
- Liquid Management: Ensure beans are always covered by at least 2 inches of liquid during cooking to prevent drying out. Use chicken broth for extra flavor or water for a vegetarian option.
- Seasoning Strategy: Add salt towards the end of cooking to prevent beans from becoming tough. Taste and adjust seasonings in the final hour of cooking.
- Low and Slow is the Way: Resist the temptation to rush the cooking process. Slow cooking allows beans to become tender and absorb all the delicious spices.
- Customize Your Dish: Feel free to add diced bell peppers, jalapeños, or swap chili powder with fresh chilies for a personalized touch.
- Storage and Reheating: These beans taste even better the next day! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 270kcal
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 16g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
