Discover the versatility and flavor of black beans with these 20 mouth-watering recipes, perfect for every occasion. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick and easy lunch option or a foodie seeking inspiration for a dinner party, we’ve got you covered.
From spicy soups to savory salads, creamy dips to decadent brownies, our collection of black bean recipes is sure to satisfy your cravings. And the best part? Each dish is packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients, making them not only delicious but also good for you.
In this article, we’ll take a culinary journey around the world, exploring the diverse flavors and textures that black beans have to offer. From classic Latin American dishes to innovative twists on traditional recipes, we’ve gathered some of the most mouth-watering black bean recipes out there.
So grab your apron, sharpen your knives, and get ready to cook up a storm with our 20 Flavorful Black Bean Recipes for Every Occasion!
Spicy Black Bean Soup
This spicy black bean soup is a flavorful and nutritious meal perfect for any time of the year. With the addition of jalapeños, cumin, and smoked paprika, this recipe packs a punch of flavor that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 jalapeños, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, jalapeños, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the cumin, smoked paprika, and black beans; cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Bean and Corn Salad
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the natural sweetness of corn with the earthy flavor of black beans, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine black beans, corn kernels, and red bell pepper.
2. Stir in olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Sprinkle cilantro on top and toss gently.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble the ingredients and enjoy.
Black Bean Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe, featuring tender black beans and creamy avocado salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Salsa (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, cilantro, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin; add black beans and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
Avocado Salsa:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients; adjust seasoning as needed. Serve with black bean tacos and your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Black Bean Dip
This flavorful dip is perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering. With its creamy texture and rich black bean flavor, it’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine black beans, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and cumin.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.
4. Transfer dip to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped cilantro, if using.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready in no time!)
Black Bean and Sweet Potato Enchiladas
A twist on traditional enchiladas, this recipe combines the comfort of sweet potatoes with the richness of black beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, cooked and diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cooked sweet potato and black beans to the skillet; stir to combine.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble enchiladas by spooning the sweet potato-black bean mixture onto a tortilla, rolling up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas; top with shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Bean and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the hearty texture of black beans, all wrapped up in a sweet bell pepper. Perfect for a quick and nutritious meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, or cilantro for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix together quinoa, black beans, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Black Bean Brownies
A twist on traditional brownies, these rich and fudgy treats incorporate the natural sweetness of black beans for a unique flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Stir in the cooked black beans until well combined.
6. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then stir in chocolate chips.
7. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Bean and Mango Salsa
A sweet and spicy twist on traditional salsa, this recipe combines the richness of black beans with the tropical flavor of mango.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine black beans, mango, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and stir to combine.
3. Add cumin and salt to taste.
4. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Serve: With tortilla chips, tacos, grilled meats, or as a topping for your favorite dish.
Black Bean and Rice Casserole
A flavorful and filling casserole that combines the richness of black beans with the comfort of rice, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the rice according to package instructions using the water.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the cumin and cooked black beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the cooked rice, black bean mixture, and shredded cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Bean and Chorizo Chili
Savor the bold flavors of Spain and Latin America in this hearty, one-pot chili that combines tender black beans with spicy chorizo sausage. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 lb chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chorizo and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 30-60 minutes
Black Bean and Spinach Quesadillas
A flavorful twist on traditional quesadillas, these black bean and spinach filled tortillas are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This recipe combines the savory taste of black beans with the earthy flavor of spinach, all wrapped up in a crispy corn tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together black beans, spinach, olive oil, onion, garlic, and cumin.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle one-quarter of the bean and spinach mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the filling is heated through.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Black Bean and Pumpkin Soup
This comforting soup combines the rich flavors of roasted pumpkin and black beans, simmered together with aromatic spices and a hint of smokiness. Perfect for a chilly day or as a nutritious snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss pumpkin cubes with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in 1 tablespoon olive oil until softened.
4. Add cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add roasted pumpkin, black beans, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat and let soup cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Black Bean and Avocado Wrap
A flavorful and nutritious wrap filled with the creamy texture of avocado, the plant-based protein of black beans, and the crunch of mixed greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large flour tortilla
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup shredded mixed greens
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mashed avocado, black beans, lime juice, and cumin. Mix well to combine.
2. Warm the tortilla by wrapping it in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Spoon the black bean and avocado mixture onto one half of the tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Top with chopped cilantro, mixed greens, and diced red bell pepper.
5. Fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling to create a wrap.
Cooking Time: None! Assemble and serve immediately.
Black Bean and Cornbread Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of black beans, corn, and spicy chipotle peppers with a crumbly cornbread crust. Perfect for a comforting meal or a crowd-pleasing side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon chipotle pepper powder (or more to taste)
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, and chipotle pepper powder. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the black beans and corn kernels. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a separate bowl, prepare the cornbread mix according to package instructions.
6. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and fill with the bean and corn mixture.
7. Top with the prepared cornbread batter.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and the cornbread crust is crispy.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Black Bean and Chicken Burritos
A flavorful and filling burrito recipe that combines the richness of black beans, chicken, and spices with the crunch of fresh vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
2. Stir in the garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the cooked black beans to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the burritos by spooning the chicken and bean mixture onto each tortilla, followed by shredded cheese and chopped cilantro (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Bean and Lentil Curry
This flavorful and nutritious curry is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of black beans, lentils, and aromatic spices will warm your heart and belly.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onions, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the black beans, lentils, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Black Bean and Zucchini Fritters
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional fritters, these Black Bean and Zucchini Fritters are perfect for a quick snack or light meal. With the combination of black beans, zucchini, and spices, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
• 1 cup cooked black beans
• 1 medium zucchini, grated
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine cooked black beans, grated zucchini, flour, cornmeal, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add the beaten egg and mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop the mixture into the preheated skillet or griddle.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy as is.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes per batch
Black Bean and Egg Breakfast Bowl
Start your day with a flavorful and nutritious breakfast bowl packed with protein-rich black beans, eggs, and fresh veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until smooth.
2. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes or until translucent.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Pour in the whisked eggs and scramble until cooked through.
6. Stir in the cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the egg mixture over the black beans in a bowl.
8. Add your desired toppings (if using) and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Bean and Coconut Curry
This vibrant curry combines the earthy flavor of black beans with the richness of coconut milk, making it a perfect blend of spicy and creamy.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the coconut oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, curry powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, and coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the curry over low heat for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Bean and Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies are a unique twist on traditional chocolate chip cookies, incorporating the subtle flavor of black beans to create a rich and fudgy treat. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while adding some unexpected nutrition.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Stir in cooked black beans and chocolate chips.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 20 flavorful black bean recipes! From comforting soups and salads to savory casseroles and sweet treats, this collection has something for every occasion. Savor the spicy kick of Black Bean Soup or add some heat to your tacos with Avocado Salsa. Try your hand at baking with Black Bean Brownies or go green with Spinach Quesadillas. With a variety of international flavors and twists on classic dishes, these recipes are sure to satisfy any appetite. Find inspiration for your next meal in this diverse and delicious array of black bean creations!
Leave a Reply