Heart-Healthy Cuban Black Beans

Indulge in a wholesome and flavorful twist on a classic with this Heart-Healthy Cuban Black Beans recipe. Packed with plant-based protein and fiber, these tender black beans are simmered in a fragrant blend of sautéed onions, red bell peppers, garlic, and warming spices like cumin and oregano. Using low-sodium vegetable broth and olive oil ensures a heart-friendly dish, while apple cider vinegar adds a zesty depth to the robust flavors. Garnished with fresh cilantro and served with a squeeze of lime, this vegan and gluten-free recipe is perfect as a hearty side dish or a nutritious main course. Easy to prepare and slow-simmered to perfection, these Cuban black beans are a delicious way to enjoy traditional Caribbean flavors while supporting a healthy lifestyle.

Nutriscore Rating: 81/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:120 mins

Total Time:135 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups dried black beans
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 whole medium onion
• 1 whole red bell pepper
• 4 whole garlic cloves
• 1 whole bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 whole bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 cup fresh cilantro
• 1 whole lime wedges

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the dried black beans under cold water and discard any debris or damaged beans.

Step 2

In a large bowl, soak the beans in enough water to cover them by at least 2 inches for 8 hours or overnight.

Step 3

Drain and rinse the soaked beans, then set them aside.

Step 4

Dice the onion and red bell pepper, and mince the garlic cloves.

Step 5

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, and sauté for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are soft.

Step 6

Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 7

Stir in the cumin, oregano, and bay leaf, then add the drained beans and the vegetable broth.

Step 8

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for about 90-120 minutes, or until the beans are tender.

Step 9

Check the beans occasionally and add more water if necessary to keep them submerged.

Step 10

Once the beans are tender, remove the bay leaf. Stir in the apple cider vinegar, salt, and ground black pepper.

Step 11

Cook for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 12

Chop the cilantro and use it to garnish the beans before serving.

Step 13

Serve the beans hot with lime wedges on the side for added zest.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1552.1 grams (1552.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	792

Total Fat 30.70g	39%
Saturated Fat 4.90g	25%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.30g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 3565mg	155%
Total Carbohydrate 101.20g	37%
Dietary Fiber 29.40g	105%
Total Sugars 14.10g
Protein 27.80g	56%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 212mg	16%
Iron 10mg	54%
Potassium 2337mg	50%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 34.9%

Protein: 14.0%

Carbs: 51.1%