Mexican black beans are a nutritious addition to any meal. When I was younger I was always hungry and I’d come inside looking for a snack in the afternoon hoping my mom had a big pot of beans simmering on the back of the stove. Black beans were among my favorite, and I could usually talk her into giving me a little bowl of them to tide me over until dinner.
These little legumes pack a punch when it comes to flavor. Whether you’re making a Hearty Bean Chili, a zesty Southwest Eggroll, or a flavorful Vegan Burrito Bowl, Mexican black beans are sure to impress.
Not only do they taste great, but they are also packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. So go ahead and try out some new recipes with these amazing beans – your taste buds and your body will thank you!
This page contains Amazon affiliate links. If you click a link, I may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Key Takeaways:
- Nutritious and Versatile: Mexican black beans are packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins like folate, making them a delicious and healthy addition to a variety of dishes, from burrito bowls to hearty chili.
- Brain Health Booster: Black beans support brain health with nutrients like folate, which aids in neurotransmitter production, and antioxidants that protect brain cells.
- Flavor Packed with Flexibility: These beans shine with seasonings like smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder and can be customized with jalapenos for spice or roasted red peppers for a smoky depth.
- Easy Prep in Instant Pot: No need to presoak the beans—just sauté garlic and onions, add ingredients, and cook under high pressure for 35 minutes for perfect results.
- Roasted Red Peppers Tip: Make and freeze roasted red peppers for long-term use to add flavor and convenience to your recipes.
- Serving Suggestions: Finish with fresh lime wedges, cilantro, and optional garnishes like jalapenos for a burst of freshness and presentation.
Overview
Mexican black beans are more than just a pantry staple—they’re a flavorful, nutrient-dense powerhouse that adds depth and health benefits to a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re reminiscing about childhood meals or experimenting with plant-based recipes today, black beans deliver comfort, versatility, and sustenance in every bite. Rich in plant-based protein, fiber, and brain-boosting nutrients like folate and antioxidants, these little legumes support everything from digestion to cognitive health. Their robust flavor pairs beautifully with spices like cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika, making them ideal for everything from chili to burrito bowls. This guide offers a simple, Instant Pot-friendly method to bring out the best in Mexican black beans—complete with roasted red peppers, lime wedges, and fresh cilantro for a fresh, zesty finish. Whether you’re cooking for wellness or just for taste, this is a delicious way to nourish both body and mind.
SIS Simple is Smart Tip
This recipe has Roasted Red Peppers added to the beans before they are served. To make sure you have roasted red peppers to use, roast up a big batch of red peppers. Then peel them and remove the stems and seeds.
Open them up and lay them flat on a plastic wrap lined cookie sheet. Lay them in a single layer.
Once they are frozen put them in either a ziplock freezer bag or vacuum seal them. The ones in the ziplock bag will be good for 3-4 months. The vacuum packed ones will last several years.
Neuro-Nutrition Nugget for Black Beans
Black beans are good for the health of your brain. These tiny legumes are packed with nutrients that can boost cognitive function and improve overall brain health. One of the key nutrients found in black beans is folate, which plays a crucial role in brain development and function. Folate helps in the production of neurotransmitters, which are essential for proper brain communication.
Additionally, black beans are a great source of antioxidants that protect brain cells from damage caused by free radicals. Incorporating black beans into your diet can help support a healthy brain and enhance your cognitive abilities.
Ingredients:
- Dried Black Beans: No need to presoak the beans when you cook them in the Instant Pot.
- Vegetable Broth: You can also use water if you don’t have broth or add a bullion cube to the water. Dissolve the bullion cube in the water prior to adding the water to the pot.
- Onions: yellow onion
- Paprika: I love smoked paprika, but regular paprika is good also.
- Roasted Red Peppers added at the end or fresh red bell peppers sauteed and added with the onions.
- Lime wedges for serving
- Olive Oil: use extra virgin
- Chili Powder
- Salt
- Cumin: ground cumin
- Roasted Garlic or fresh garlic minced fine if you don’t have the roasted
- Jalapeno Peppers optional if you don’t like it spicy.
- Cilantro: for garnish when you serve the black beans
Step by step instructions - Mexican Black Beans
- Set the instant pot to manual and saute.
- Saute the garlic and onions in the olive oil. If you don’t have roasted red peppers saute 1/2 cup of diced fresh red peppers.
- Add the beans and water or broth to the Instant Pot. Deglaze the browned bits on the bottom.
- Add the seasonings: cumin, chili powder, paprika, and salt.
- Set the Instant Pot to manual, high, and cook the beans 35 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally.
- Stir in the diced roasted red peppers. Serve with lime wedges and cilantro garnish.
FAQ
What are black Mexican beans called?
If you have ever wondered what black Mexican beans are called, I am here to tell you that they are known as black turtle beans. These little legumes are a staple in Mexican cuisine and are loved for their rich, earthy flavor. Black turtle beans are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to salads and dips. They are also packed with nutrients like fiber, protein, and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to your diet. So next time you’re in the mood for some authentic Mexican flavors, don’t forget to grab a bag of these delicious black turtle beans!
Are Mexican black beans the same as Chinese?
If you’ve ever wondered whether Mexican black beans are the same as Chinese black beans. They are actually quite different. While both are delicious and versatile, they have distinct flavors and culinary uses. Mexican black beans, also known as frijoles negros, are commonly used in traditional Mexican cuisine. They have a rich, earthy taste and a creamy texture, perfect for soups, stews, and refried bean dishes.
On the other hand, Chinese black beans, also called fermented black beans or douchi, have a strong, salty flavor and are often used as a seasoning in stir-fried dishes. So, while they may share a similar name, Mexican black beans and Chinese black beans are unique ingredients that can add depth and flavor to various dishes from their respective cuisines.
Are Mexican black beans healthy?
Absolutely! Mexican black beans are not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. These legumes are packed with essential nutrients, making them a fantastic addition to any diet. They are an excellent source of plant-based protein, providing a valuable alternative for those who follow a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle.
Mexican black beans are also high in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full and satisfied. Additionally, they contain an array of vitamins and minerals, such as folate, iron, and magnesium, which are vital for overall health and well-being. So go ahead and enjoy some Mexican black beans guilt-free!
What Beans are Typically Used in Mexican Foods?
In Mexican cuisine, beans play a significant role in many dishes. The variety of beans used in Mexican foods is vast and diverse, adding depth and flavor to traditional recipes. Some commonly used beans are black beans, pinto beans, and kidney beans.
These beans are delicious and packed with nutrients, making them a healthy addition to any meal. Whether making a hearty chili or a flavorful bean dip, experimenting with different types of beans can elevate your Mexican dishes to a whole new level. So go ahead and explore the wonderful world of Mexican beans!
How do you prepare black beans from a can
Preparing black beans from a can is easy and convenient. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious and nutritious meal ready in no time. Start by opening the can of black beans and draining the liquid. Rinse the beans under cold water to remove any excess salt or preservatives. Then, transfer the beans to a pot and add enough water to cover them.
Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the beans cook for about 15-20 minutes or until tender. You can season them with your favorite herbs and spices, such as garlic, cumin, or chili powder, to add extra flavor. Once they are done, you can enjoy the black beans in a variety of dishes, such as salads, soups, or as a side dish with rice. So don’t hesitate to try it and discover how easy it is to prepare black beans from a can!
Mexican Black Bean Instant Pot
Equipment
- This page contains Amazon affiliate links. If you click a link, I may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you
- To see the ingredient amounts in metric units, click the blue "METRIC:" button between the ingredients and the instructions for this recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 cup dry black beans or pinto beans or half and half.
- 2 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- ½ cup diced roasted red peppers
- 1 lime cut in wedges to serve with the beans
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Set the instant pot to manual and saute
- Saute the garlic and onions in the olive oil. If you don't have roasted red peppers saute 1/2 cup of diced fresh red peppers.
- Add the beans and water or broth to the Instant Pot. Deglaze the browned bits on the bottom.
- add the seasonings: cumin, chili powder, paprika, and salt.
- Set the Instant Pot to manual, high, and cook the beans 35 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally.
- Stir in the diced roasted red peppers. Serve with lime wedges and cilantro garnish.
