Abuela's Frijoles Negros Grandma's Cuban Black Beans

Transport your taste buds to the heart of Cuba with Abuela's Frijoles Negros, Grandma's Cuban Black Beans—a comforting, flavor-packed recipe brimming with tradition. These slow-simmered black beans are infused with aromatic garlic, sautéed onions, and sweet bell peppers, all brought to life with a harmonious blend of cumin, oregano, and a delicate splash of white vinegar. The all-natural, wholesome ingredients combine for a rich and hearty dish that’s as nourishing as it is satisfying. Perfectly tender beans are kissed with just a hint of sweetness and a savory depth that will have you coming back for seconds. Serve these authentic Cuban black beans over steamed white rice for an unforgettable family meal that tastes like a warm hug from Abuela. Whether for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this classic recipe is a must-try for lovers of Latin cuisine!

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:120 mins

Total Time:130 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 pound dried black beans
• 8 cups water
• 1 medium green bell pepper
• 1 medium onion
• 4 large garlic cloves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 leaf bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the dried black beans thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Place the beans in a large bowl and cover with water. Soak overnight (8-12 hours).

Step 2

Drain and rinse the soaked beans. Transfer them to a large pot and add 8 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 3

Cut the green bell pepper in half, remove the seeds, and add one half to the pot with the beans. Reserve the other half for later. Add the bay leaf to the pot as well.

Step 4

Reduce the heat to low and simmer the beans uncovered for about 60-90 minutes, or until they are tender. Stir occasionally and add more water if necessary to keep the beans submerged.

Step 5

While the beans are cooking, finely chop the remaining half of the green bell pepper and the onion. Mince the garlic cloves.

Step 6

In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 7

Once the beans are tender, remove the bay leaf and the half green pepper from the pot. Discard them.

Step 8

Stir the sautéed vegetables into the pot with the beans. Add the cumin, oregano, vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.

Step 9

Simmer the beans for an additional 30 minutes on low heat to allow the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 10

Serve the Cuban black beans hot over steamed white rice, and enjoy your taste of Abuela's kitchen.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2769.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1019.4

Total Fat 31.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 5.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.8g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 3488.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 145.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 45.9g	0%
Total Sugars 17.0g
Protein 45.8g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 370.4mg	0%
Iron 13.3mg	0%
Potassium 2335.8mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 27.2%

Protein: 17.5%

Carbs: 55.4%