If you’re searching for a quick, flavorful, and protein-packed vegan meal, these quick Cuban black beans are about to become a new go-to recipe! Made with canned beans and spruced up with a fragrant sofrito, there’s no soaking or hours of simmering required to get a delicious and flavorful dish.
I grew up in a Cuban household in Miami, where canned black beans were always stocked in the pantry and a pot of beans was often simmering on the stove, filling the house with the rich aroma of garlic, onions, and peppers—hello, sofrito!
This recipe is my shortcut version of those cherished memories, made easy with canned beans and a quick sofrito that packs all the flavor without the hours of cooking.
Thanks to a food processor, the chopping is fast and fine, so the aromatics melt right into the beans, adding layers of warmth and soul—perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends and meal prep.
If you’re trying to increase your bean intake, you’ll also love my Spicy Miso Butter Beans On Toast for a quick and hearty meal, Chipotle Black Bean Burger that brings the smoky heat, High-Protein Low-Carb Lupini Bean Hummus for a twist on a classic dip, and a healthy Black Bean Quinoa Chili that’s perfect for cozy nights.
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Why you'll love these quick black beans
- Like in my Cuban Vegan Fricase, making a simple sofrito creates a delicious savory base for these beans.
- Black beans are a great source of protein and fiber, so you'll stay full and satisfied long after eating.
- You can use it as a filling for burritos or tacos or serve it over rice for a hearty meal. You can also serve it with Cuban Vegan Picadillo.
Ingredient Overview
This is what you'll need to make this simple and easy Cuban black bean recipe using cans of black beans.
- Jalapeno - It is not traditional for Cuban black beans, so you can leave it out if you want. Remove some seeds for less heat.
- Black Beans - Canned or homemade is fine. If using homemade, use 4 cups of cooked beans.
- Balsamic Vinegar - You can substitute it with lime juice.
See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.
Variations
- Toss in a bit of lime or lemon zest for an even fresher flavor.
- Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for brightness.
How To Make Quick Cuban-Style Black Beans
Here are some pics of what you'll be doing. See the recipe card for details.
Step 1: Process the onions, peppers, jalapenos (if using), and garlic in a food processor for finely chopped aromatics that will melt into the beans.
Step 2: In a medium-sized pan or pot, sauté onions, green pepper, and garlic in olive oil until soft, over medium heat. Use veggie broth if oil-free.
Step 3: Add cumin and oregano to the pan and cook for a minute.
Step 4: Add cans of drained (but not rinsed) black beans to the pot and mix. If you rinsed the beans, add a little water to prevent drying. Cook on medium for about 10 more minutes, stirring frequently.
Step 5: Add salt, black pepper, and balsamic vinegar. Mix until well combined.
Step 6: Garnish with chopped tomatoes, green onions, and lime juice.
Serving Suggestions
- Start with a base of cooked rice like this Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice or Simple Instant Pot Yellow Rice. Add black beans, avocado, Sweet Plantains (4 Different Ways), and top with a little drizzle of Cuban Mojo Criollo.
- Add to a vegan taco or Vegan Black Bean Tostadas for a quick and easy meal.
- Black beans can add protein and flavor to any salad. Combine black beans with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and a simple vinaigrette or Cuban Chimichurri Sauce for a quick and healthy meal.
- Puree black beans in a food processor or use an immersion blender. Serve with tortilla chips or as a pureed soup.
- Spread black beans on a wrap or sandwich, then top with sliced vegetables, hummus, or vegan mayo for a quick and easy lunch.
This recipe was adapted from Elisa's original recipe. Thanks to my friend Brandon Perez and his grandmother, Elisa Valera (1920-2012) for sharing.
Spill the Beans! Leave a comment and rate this recipe! Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube @plantacoaching. If you make a recipe be sure to tag @plantacoaching and use the hashtag #plantacoaching to flaunt your culinary triumphs!
Recipe FAQS
Store the beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 3 months—just reheat with a splash of water or broth to bring them back to life.
More Delicious Vegan Cuban and Spanish Recipes
Got a minute? I'd love for you to dive into the comments and rate these Quick Cuban Black Beans. Your feedback is invaluable—did you love it? Did you make any fun twists? Let me know how my directions worked for you so I can keep improving my recipes. Follow me on Pinterest, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube for inspiration.
Quick Cuban Black Beans
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion white or yellow
- 1 green pepper
- 1 jalapeno optional
- 4 garlic cloves
- 1 tablespoon oregano
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cans black beans drained but not rinsed
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- chopped tomato green onions, or limes for garnish.
Instructions
- Chop the Aromatics: In a food processor, chop the onions, green peppers, jalapeno (if using), and garlic by pulsing until they are finely diced but still have a bit of texture—no need to puree them completely. Chop finely by hand if you do not have a food processor.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a medium-sized pot or pan sauté mixture in olive oil until soft, about 8-10 minutes, over medium heat.
- Add Spices: Add cumin and oregano to the pot and sauté for 1 minute to bring out the flavors.
- Add Beans and Simmer: Add drained but not rinsed cans of black beans to the pot. Continue to simmer for 10 minutes, stirring frequently. If it dries up too much, add a tablespoon or two of water or broth and continue to simmer.
- Finish: Add balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Adjust to taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Optional - Before serving, add chopped tomatoes, green onions, and a squeeze of lime.
Regi Pearce says
So simple yet so flavorful! These easy black beans are the perfect staple for meal prep, tacos, bowls, and more. A quick, delicious way to add protein to any meal!