Easy Cuban Canned Black Beans

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.

Why you'll love these quick black beans

• Like my Cuban Vegan Fricase, 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, easy Cuban black bean recipe using canned 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.

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. Serve with some delicious Homemade Cuban Bread.
• 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.
• However you eat your black beans, follow it up with some delicious Cuban Coffee made one of three ways for dessert.

How to Cook Canned Black Beans (And Make Them Taste Amazing)

Canned black beans are already cooked - the trick is making them taste like they simmered all day. Here's what actually moves the needle:

• Build a proper sofrito. Don't skip this step. Garlic, onion, and bell pepper cooked down in olive oil is the flavor base that separates Cuban black beans from plain canned beans. Give it at least 5 minutes.
• Add a splash of the bean liquid. That starchy liquid in the can (aquafaba) adds body and richness. Pour it in - don't drain it all away.
• Let them simmer. Even 10-15 minutes of simmering in the sofrito transforms canned beans into something that tastes slow-cooked.
• Mash a few beans. Use a spoon or fork to crush some beans against the side of the pan. It naturally thickens the sauce without any cornstarch or cream.
• Season at the end. Salt and vinegar (or lime juice) should go in last - they brighten everything up right before serving.

Black Bean Recipe FAQS