Black Beans Recipe (Instant Pot or Slow Cooker)
If you’re looking for a versatile and hearty dish that can be made easily at home, look no further than this Black Beans Recipe (Instant Pot or Slow Cooker). Black beans are not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber, making them a fantastic addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish, adding them to tacos, or blending them into a dip, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how to prepare it!
Reasons to Love Black Beans Recipe (Instant Pot or Slow Cooker)
– **Health Benefits**: Black beans are high in protein and fiber, which can help with digestion and keep you feeling full.
– **Versatile**: They can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to soups, or even as a meat substitute in tacos and burritos.
– **Easy to Make**: With the Instant Pot or slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, making meal prep a breeze.
– **Flavor Packed**: The combination of spices creates a rich and hearty flavor that will elevate any meal.
– **Budget-Friendly**: Dried beans are more economical than canned, making this recipe a great option for families or anyone looking to save money.
What We’re Using
- 1 cup finely diced yellow onion – adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1 finely diced red pepper – for a pop of color and sweetness.
- 4 to 6 cloves minced garlic – the flavor powerhouse of this recipe.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing and added richness.
- 2 teaspoons paprika – for a warm, smoky flavor.
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder – enhances the garlic flavor.
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin – adds earthiness and warmth.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – for a hint of herbaceousness.
- Salt and pepper – to taste.
- 1 pound dried black beans – the star of the show!
- 3 cups water – helps cook the beans to perfection.
- 3 cups chicken stock or vegetable stock – for a richer flavor. We recommend Swanson.
- 2 heaping tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce – for a spicy kick.
- 1 bay leaf – adds a subtle depth of flavor.
- 1/3 cup chopped cilantro (optional) – for freshness and garnish.
- Fresh lime juice (optional) – brightens up the dish.
Cook’s Kit
- Instant Pot or Slow Cooker – your trusty kitchen appliance for effortless cooking.
- Cutting Board and Knife – for chopping your veggies.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – to ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
- Wooden Spoon – for stirring up those delicious flavors.
- Serving Spoon – to serve your delicious black beans!
How to Prepare Black Beans Recipe (Instant Pot or Slow Cooker)
Step 1: Prepare the Beans
Rinse the dried black beans under cold water to remove any debris. If you prefer, you can soak the beans overnight in water, but this is optional when using the Instant Pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In your Instant Pot, set it to the sauté function. Add the olive oil, then the finely diced yellow onion and red pepper. Cook until the veggies are soft, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, paprika, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper, stirring constantly for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Add the rinsed black beans to the pot, followed by the water, chicken stock, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, and bay leaf. Stir everything together well.
Step 4: Cooking in the Instant Pot
Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to cook at high pressure for 30 minutes. Allow for a natural release for about 15 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure.
Step 5: Cooking in the Slow Cooker
If you’re using a slow cooker, after sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beans are tender.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Once the beans are cooked, discard the bay leaf. If desired, stir in chopped cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice for brightness. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Fresh Seasonal Changes
- Spring: Add fresh asparagus or peas for a burst of color and nutrition.
- Summer: Toss in some corn kernels or diced tomatoes for freshness.
- Fall: Incorporate roasted sweet potatoes or pumpkin for a cozy twist.
- Winter: Serve with warm tortillas or over rice for a comforting meal.
Pro Tips & Notes
- For a creamier texture, you can mash some of the beans after cooking.
- Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer chipotle peppers.
- If using canned black beans, reduce the cooking time significantly (about 10-15 minutes in the Instant Pot).
- Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together!
Storing Tips & Timelines
Store leftover black beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. When freezing, make sure to leave some space in the container as the beans will expand as they freeze.
To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to loosen them up.
Reader Questions
Can I use canned black beans instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned black beans! Just be sure to drain and rinse them before adding them to the recipe, and reduce the cooking time in the Instant Pot to about 10-15 minutes.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
Simply use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock, and omit any non-vegan seasonings. All the ingredients listed in this recipe are plant-based!
What can I serve with black beans?
Black beans are incredibly versatile! Serve them over rice, in tacos, alongside grilled meats, or as a filling for burritos. They also make a great addition to salads and grain bowls.
How do I know when the beans are cooked?
The beans should be tender when cooked. If they still feel hard, you may need to cook them for a little longer, especially if you didn’t soak them beforehand.
In Closing
This Black Beans Recipe (Instant Pot or Slow Cooker) is an easy and delicious way to enjoy a nutritious meal. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving a family dinner, black beans are sure to please. Try this recipe today and discover the wonderful world of flavors that black beans can bring to your table!
Black Beans Recipe (Instant Pot or Slow Cooker)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse the dried black beans under cold water to remove any debris. If you prefer, you can soak the beans overnight in water, but this is optional when using the Instant Pot.
- In your Instant Pot, set it to the sauté function. Add the olive oil, then the finely diced yellow onion and red pepper. Cook until the veggies are soft, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, paprika, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper, stirring constantly for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the rinsed black beans to the pot, followed by the water, chicken stock, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, and bay leaf. Stir everything together well.
- Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to cook at high pressure for 30 minutes. Allow for a natural release for about 15 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure.
- If you’re using a slow cooker, after sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beans are tender.
- Once the beans are cooked, discard the bay leaf. If desired, stir in chopped cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice for brightness. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, you can mash some of the beans after cooking.
- Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer chipotle peppers.
- If using canned black beans, reduce the cooking time significantly (about 10-15 minutes in the Instant Pot).
- Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together!
