Black beans are a culinary chameleon, offering a multitude of options for creative cooks. While deciding on a recipe can be overwhelming due to the sheer variety available, this versatility stems from black beans’ central role in many global cuisines and cooking methods. As a nutrient-rich ingredient packed with protein and antioxidants, black beans are a popular choice for light dishes, where they can be easily incorporated into recipes or used as the main attraction.
When it comes to preparing dried black beans, there are several approaches, including a lengthy soaking process or a combination of boiling and soaking. The type of black bean recipe chosen often dictates which type of black bean is best suited – whether that’s canned or from scratch. For instance, a quick weeknight skillet might be more feasible with canned beans rather than starting from dried. With such endless possibilities, the question ‘what can I make with black beans?
‘ is easily answered: the world is your culinary oyster. Read on to discover how to transform black beans into dishes ranging from Black Bean Coconut Stew to Sweet Potato And Black Bean Tamales and Black Bean Fritters.
Akara–Black Bean Fritters
For a flavorful and authentic twist on traditional black beans, consider incorporating Ghanaian-inspired Akara into your culinary repertoire. Typically enjoyed as a morning meal or afternoon snack, this West African delicacy offers a unique combination of textures and tastes. The harmonious blend of black beans and other ingredients culminates in a soft, pliable mixture that’s then deep-fried to perfection, yielding a crispy exterior giving way to a savory interior.
Arepas Stuffed With Black Beans And Cheese
Best Ever Canned Black Beans
Transforming a humble can of black beans into a culinary masterpiece is just a few simple steps away. By combining the canned black beans with aromatic ingredients like garlic, onion, cumin, chili powder, coriander, and oregano, you’ll elevate the flavor profile to new heights while adding a delightful depth of spice. This versatile recipe is perfect for incorporating into other dishes, such as loaded nachos, hearty casseroles, or served alongside a flavorful bed of rice.
Black Bean And Corn Salad
Elevate your next BBQ gathering by preparing this mouthwatering salad that’s packed with protein and flavor. The combination of crunchy bell peppers, sweet red onions, fresh parsley, and succulent corn not only adds a burst of brightness but also balances out the earthiness of the beans. To take it to the next level, a simple yet effective dressing made from olive oil and red wine vinegar brings all the ingredients together in perfect harmony.
Black Bean And Corn Salsa
This versatile salsa not only makes for a satisfying snack, but it also pairs well as a side dish with various meats or other courses. The vibrant colors from the tomatoes, corn, and red onions create a visually appealing addition to any table setting.
Black Bean Coconut Stew
For those overwhelmed by an abundance of dried black beans, this recipe offers a convenient solution. The Instant Pot’s efficiency and ability to blend flavors make it the preferred cooking method for this dish. Alternatively, a stovetop version is available for those who prefer a more traditional approach. Regardless of the chosen method, the harmonious union of coconut milk, garlic, sweet potato, black beans, and an assortment of spices yields a mouthwatering culinary experience.
Black Bean Enchilada
A flavorful fusion of black beans, corn, and peppers, all wrapped up in a warm tortilla and smothered in rich enchilada sauce and melted cheese – what’s not to love? This delightful dish can be enjoyed at any time of day, whether it’s a comforting dinner or a satisfying lunch. The combination of textures and tastes is simply irresistible.
Black Bean Miso With Smoked Salt
While numerous recipes put the spotlight solely on black beans, this particular dish takes a different approach. Instead of being the sole star, black beans share the limelight with the savory and umami-rich miso. This harmonious union creates a culinary experience that’s greater than the sum of its parts. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility – it can be enjoyed alongside a variety of grains such as rice, quinoa, or other whole grain options.
Black Bean Nacho Gratin
Take the humble nacho to new heights by transforming it into a vibrant, flavorful black bean nacho gratin. The medley of red bell peppers, zucchini, black beans, and corn brings an impressive array of textures and nutrients to the table, beautifully complemented by crispy chips and melted cheese.
Black Bean Skillet With Pickled Onions
This versatile recipe is perfect for any mealtime – breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Its convenience factor makes it an ideal option when you have a family to feed but are short on time. The addition of pickled onions brings a delightful surprise of flavor to the skillet dish. For added substance, consider pairing it with rice, quinoa, or other grains to make for a satisfying and filling meal.
Black Bean Soup With Sausage
This black bean soup boasts the quintessential blend of flavors, featuring onion, bell peppers, garlic, and cumin – all hallmarks of a rich and satisfying bowl of goodness. But what truly sets it apart is the addition of smoked sausage, which infuses the dish with an unexpected depth and complexity. Whether you’re in need of a quick and effortless weekday meal or a show-stopping dinner party centerpiece, this recipe has got you covered.
Chinese Black Bean Sauce
Recreating the flavor of Chinese restaurants is easier than you think, even if it’s a unique dish like black bean sauce. The traditional method involves fermented soybeans, but our recipe substitutes salted black beans for a similar depth of flavor.
To get started, simply combine the salted black beans with soy sauce, rice wine, thinly sliced green onion, grated ginger, and minced garlic.
This versatile sauce can be used as a base for a wide variety of dishes, including vegetable stir-fries, noodle bowls, or meat-based recipes.
The possibilities are endless when you have a great black bean sauce at your disposal.
Creamy Black Bean Salsa
While this dish shares similarities with other black bean salsas, its uniqueness lies in the unexpected combination of sour cream and mayonnaise. This bold move creates a harmonious balance between the vibrant flavors of the vegetables and a rich, creamy texture that elevates the overall taste experience. Whether you’re serving it alongside tacos or enjoying it as a chip accompaniment, this salsa’s distinctive flavor profile is sure to impress.
Cuban Style Black Beans
Unlock the rich flavor of black beans by combining them with aromatics and spices in this quick and easy recipe. In just under half an hour, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and pairs perfectly with a variety of accompaniments. Simply cook your beans with garlic, scallions, bell pepper, cumin, oregano, and red wine vinegar to bring out their natural sweetness and depth.
The result is a versatile bean dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with rice, quinoa, meat, or a multitude of other options.
Easy Black Bean Burgers
When faced with meal options featuring black beans, why not create your own mouth-watering black bean burgers? To do so, simply combine a few straightforward ingredients for a hassle-free cooking experience. Once you’ve crafted these tasty patties, elevate them by pairing them with an assortment of delectable toppings – consider combining the earthy sweetness of red onion, the freshness of spinach, and the tanginess of a homemade sauce.
Easy Veggie And Black Bean Pantry Bowls
What’s truly remarkable about these versatile bowls is their adaptability. You have the freedom to not only follow the provided recipe with precision, but also experiment with your own twists and creative liberties. The foundation of this dish is built around sweet potatoes, corn, black beans, tortilla strips, and rice – a quintessential combination that serves as a perfect starting point for you to put your personal stamp on it.
Feijoada, Brazilian Black Bean Stew
For a taste of traditional Brazil, look no further than this hearty bean stew recipe, which honors the rich culinary heritage of the country. The name ‘feijoadas’ is derived from the Portuguese word for beans, a staple ingredient in many Brazilian dishes.
This simplified version of the recipe offers a convenient alternative to more complex recipes, requiring only minimal time and effort to prepare.
Meanwhile, the subtle sweetness of the orange adds a unique twist that elevates this dish to new heights.
When serving this traditional favorite, consider gathering around the table with friends and family – its hearty portions make it perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Hearty Black Bean Quesadillas
Quesadillas are an excellent option for a meal that’s easy to prepare and adaptable to any time of day. Their versatility makes them a great choice for family meals or cooking with kids, as they’re simple to make together. One of the best things about quesadillas is their ability to freeze well, making them a convenient option for meal prep or leftovers.
When it comes to flavor combinations, the classic pairing of black beans and corn pairs perfectly with the sweetness of red onion, the freshness of cilantro, and the creaminess of cheese, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.
Instant Pot Butternut Squash Black Bean Stew
In just minutes, this canned black beans recipe can elevate a humble can of black beans into a flavorful and versatile dish that’s perfect for any meal. The addition of coconut milk lends a lighter touch to this recipe, making it a refreshing change from other hearty soup options. What’s more, this recipe is ideal for those looking to add an abundance of vegetables to their diet in no time at all. And the best part?
You can also make this dish using traditional stovetop methods if you don’t have access to an Instant Pot.
Mexican Black Bean Hand Pies
When it comes to quick and easy meals, hand pies are an excellent choice for a lunch or snack on-the-go. To take the meal to the next level, consider pairing them with a fresh salad or other side dish for a well-rounded and satisfying meal. The delicate pastry provides a delightful contrast to the bold and savory bean and corn filling, which is infused with a blend of spices that evoke the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine.
If you’re feeling adventurous, don’t be afraid to experiment with this recipe and make it your own by incorporating your favorite flavors and twists.
Mexican Black Beans Recipe
Simplifying the decision-making process for working with black beans is easier than you might think. The beauty of this dish lies in its harmonious balance of flavors, where each ingredient plays a vital part in creating a cohesive taste experience.
The key to this recipe’s success is the way it combines seemingly simple components to produce something truly special.
Cilantro, for instance, expertly extracts the subtle floral notes inherent in black beans, while cumin adds a bright and zesty quality that cuts through the richness of the dish. Meanwhile, garlic and onion bring a depth of aromatic flavor that rounds out the overall taste profile.
Miso, Kale, And Black Bean Burritos
Combining the humble bean burrito with the savory flavors of miso and the nutritional punch of kale elevates this classic dish to new heights. The result is a surprisingly light yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for both dinner and lunch.
Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean, And Rice Skillet
The union of black beans and sweet potatoes is a match made in heaven. This recipe takes the familiar flavors of nachos to the next level by adding a hearty serving of rice. The result is a satisfying meal that’s both familiar and excitingly new. The vibrant notes of lime, salsa verde, spices, and green chilis work together to cut through the richness of the beans, rice, and sweet potatoes, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
Spicy Black Bean Soup
The simplicity of this spicy black bean soup recipe belies its complex flavors, making it a versatile option for any time of year. A few humble ingredients combine to create a rich and satisfying taste experience. One of the key elements that elevates this dish is the option to blend part of the soup, adding a creamy texture that complements the hearty black beans.
Spicy Vegan Black Bean Dip
Elevate your meals with the delightful combination of black bean dip, a nutrient-rich condiment that brings a boost of protein and an array of flavors to the table. When paired with crunchy chips and fresh vegetables like peppers, carrots, and cabbage, it’s a match made in heaven. For a more substantial snack or light lunch, consider complementing the dip with our Black Bean Lettuce Wrap, a harmonious union that will leave you craving for more.
Spinach, Coconut, And Black Bean Curry
When crafting black bean dinner recipes, it’s essential to find complementary flavors that can hold their own against the bold taste of the black beans. In this case, the creamy richness of coconut milk and the subtle earthiness of spinach provide a harmonious accompaniment to the robust black beans. Meanwhile, carefully chosen spices work together in perfect synergy, elevating the dish into a satisfying curry that’s sure to please.
Sweet Potato And Black Bean Tamales
Tamales hold a special place in Mexican cuisine, playing a significant role in the country’s culinary identity. While they can be filled with a variety of ingredients, the black bean-filled tamales stand out for their unique flavor profile. The key to these tamales’ success lies in the tamal masa, which is elevated by the addition of sweet potato, adding depth and complexity to each bite.
This recipe may require a bit more skill and attention than some others, but the end result is well worth the effort. Whether you’re looking for a special occasion dish or just want to impress your guests, these tamales are sure to deliver. As an added bonus, we’ve also included 19 complementary side dishes that pair perfectly with your freshly made tamales.
Vegan Chili Recipe With Black Beans
This recipe’s quick preparation belies its rich flavor profile, which rivals more complex dishes that require hours of cooking time. With just 15 minutes of hands-on effort, you can create a culinary masterpiece that will impress even the most discerning palates.
To make this recipe a staple in your repertoire, stock up on the essential ingredients and keep them readily available for those last-minute meals when hunger strikes.
The canned tomatoes and chilies, as well as the beans and lentils, can be stored in your pantry, waiting to be combined with other ingredients to create a satisfying meal.
Tex-Mex Quinoa Salad
The partnership between quinoa and black beans is a match made in heaven. This dynamic duo forms the foundation of a satisfying meal when combined with the sweetness of corn, the creaminess of avocado, and the aromatic depth of various spices. For those seeking a quick and easy meal that still packs a protein punch, this dish is an excellent choice.
Zucchini, Black Bean, And Rice Skillet
While many black beans recipes can be enjoyed throughout the year, this particular dish has a unique appeal that transcends seasonal boundaries. Its hearty and comforting nature makes it an ideal choice for cozying up during the Fall and Winter months, while its light and refreshing qualities make it perfect for brightening up Spring and Summer mornings.
One of the key benefits of cooking black beans in a skillet is that it allows you to easily infuse a rich and complex flavor profile into your meal through a straightforward and accessible cooking process.
The bottom line
While black beans may not be the flashiest ingredient, they pack a punch when it comes to nutrition. Their robust flavor and satisfying texture make them an excellent choice for starring in a variety of dishes, from soups to salads to main courses.
