16 Mexican Black Beans Recipe From Dried Beans Unleash Your Inner Chef!

Mexican black beans are a versatile and delicious ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. While canned black beans are convenient, using dried beans allows for a more authentic and flavorful experience. In this article, we will share a simple and easy-to-follow recipe for Mexican black beans made from dried beans, perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your favorite Mexican dishes.

Soaking and Preparing the Beans

Step 1: Rinse the beans

Before cooking, rinse the dried black beans in a colander under cold water. This will remove any dirt or debris and ensure that the beans are clean before soaking.

Step 2: Soak the beans

Place the rinsed beans in a large bowl and cover them with at least two inches of water. Let them soak overnight or for at least 8 hours. This will soften the beans and reduce the cooking time.

Step 3: Drain and rinse the beans

After soaking, drain the beans and rinse them thoroughly. This will help remove any excess starch and make the beans easier to digest.

Step 4: Add flavor to the beans

To enhance the flavor of the beans, you can add aromatics like garlic, onion, and bay leaves to the pot while cooking. This will infuse the beans with delicious flavors and aromas.

Cooking the Beans

Step 1: Add the beans to a pot

Place the drained and rinsed beans in a large pot and cover them with fresh water. Make sure the water is at least two inches above the beans.

Step 2: Bring to a boil

Over high heat, bring the beans to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot.

Step 3: Add seasonings

After the beans have been cooking for about 30 minutes, add seasonings like cumin, paprika, and chili powder to the pot. This will add a spicy and flavorful kick to the beans.

Step 4: Cook until tender

Continue cooking the beans for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until they are tender. The cooking time may vary depending on the age and size of the beans.

Serving and Storing

Step 1: Drain and serve

Once the beans are fully cooked, drain them and remove any aromatics that were added earlier. The beans are now ready to be served as a side dish or used in your favorite Mexican recipes.

Step 2: Store for later

If you have leftover beans, let them cool and then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 6 months.

Step 3: Reheat and enjoy

To reheat the beans, simply place them in a pot over medium heat and add a splash of water or broth to prevent them from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through. Now you have a delicious batch of Mexican black beans that are homemade and full of flavor. Use them in burritos, tacos, salads, or enjoy them as a side dish. With this simple recipe, you can easily make your own Mexican black beans from dried beans and take your dishes to the next level.