Craving a mouthwatering, hassle-free meal that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of Mexico? Look no further! This Mexican Style One Pot Beans recipe is about to become your new culinary obsession. Packed with rich, hearty flavors and bursting with nutrition, this vegetarian-friendly dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary meals. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe will have you serving up restaurant-quality beans that will impress even the most discerning food lovers.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried black beans
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the dried black beans under cold water in a fine mesh strainer. Remove any debris or damaged beans. Soak the beans in water for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results. If short on time, a quick soak method can be used: boil the beans in water for 2 minutes, then remove from heat and let them sit for 1 hour.
- After soaking, drain the beans and set them aside. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and diced bell pepper to the pot. Continue to sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the bell pepper is soft and fragrant.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, and the soaked black beans. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring that the beans are fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if necessary to prevent sticking.
- Once the beans are cooked to your desired tenderness, season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the spices if needed, adding more cumin or chili powder for extra flavor.
- Remove the pot from heat and let it sit for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish the beans with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of flavor and color.
- Serve the Mexican Style One Pot Beans warm, either on their own or as a filling for tacos, burritos, or alongside rice. Enjoy your delicious and hearty vegetarian meal!
Tips
- Soaking is Key: Always soak your dried beans to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility. The overnight method is best, but the quick-soak technique works wonderfully in a pinch.
- Don't Rush the Sauté: Take your time caramelizing the onions and bell peppers. This builds a deep, rich flavor foundation for your beans.
- Spice Management: Start with the recommended amount of cumin and chili powder, then taste and adjust. Everyone's spice tolerance is different!
- Liquid Level Matters: Keep an eye on your beans during cooking. Add more vegetable broth or water if they look too dry to prevent burning.
- Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: The cilantro isn't just a garnish – it adds a bright, fresh note that elevates the entire dish.
- Make Ahead Friendly: These beans taste even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare them in advance for meal prep.
- Versatility is Your Friend: Use these beans as a standalone dish, in tacos, as a burrito filling, or over rice for multiple meal options.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
