Learn how easy it is to season canned black beans so they taste like a restaurant side dish!
It is so easy to add just a few spices to make a flavorful side dish or use them in Mexican dishes, tacos, soups or salads.
Read on to see what seasonings enhance the flavor and how to cook them on the stove or in the oven in about 15 minutes!
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Why This Recipe is So Good
Canned black beans are a fantastic pantry staple. They are easy to use, full of protein, and can be seasoned in many delicious ways. Check out our Cooking Resources for more helpful kitchen tips!
Whether you want to make a savory black bean side dish, add them to your favorite recipes, or whip up a quick meal, knowing how to season canned black beans can elevate your dishes.
This blog post will guide you through the process of seasoning canned black beans and provide you with some easy recipes to try.
Quick – Cooks in about 15 minutes.
Easy – Add 4 spices that you probably already have in your pantry. Heat in the microwave, on the stovetop or in the oven while preparing the rest of your meal.
Delicious – Enhances the flavor of plain canned beans and makes them super special.
Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy Free – Full of fiber and a must have dish for the Mediterranean Diet or Mexican Dishes and Tacos or Salads.
Choose low sodium beans for a low sodium diet.
Looking for recipes for other kinds of beans and peas? Check out some of our favorites:
Black Eyed Peas in the Instant Pot
Easy Fresh Purple Hull Peas Prepared in Instant Pot
Ingredients
To season your canned black beans, you’ll need:
- 1 can of black beans
- 1 tablespoon of oil of choice (like olive oil)
- 1 small onion (yellow or red)
- 2 cloves of fresh garlic (or 1 teaspoon of garlic powder)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup of chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
- Fresh lime juice (optional)
- Salt to taste
Steps to Season Canned Black Beans
- Prepare the Beans: Start by opening your can of black beans. Drain the canning liquid and rinse the beans under cold water. This helps reduce the salt content and any preservatives. Place the beans in a large pot.
- Cook the Aromatics: In a medium saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat. Chop your small onion and add it to the pan. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. If you like a bit of spice, you can add some chopped chipotle pepper or ground coriander at this step.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Once the onion is ready, add the minced fresh garlic (or garlic powder) and sauté for another minute. Then, add the chili powder, cumin, and black pepper. These warm spices will add a lot of flavor to your beans!
- Combine Everything: Pour the sautéed onion and spices into the pot with the black beans. Add the chicken broth (or vegetable broth), and stir everything together. If you want a creamy texture, you can mash some of the beans with the back of a spoon.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a low simmer over medium-low heat. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the beans to soak up all the savory flavors.
- Finishing Touches: When the beans are heated through, you can add a splash of fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro for a bright finish. Taste the beans and add salt if needed.
Tips for Seasoning Canned Black Beans
- Experiment with Ingredients: You can change the spices based on what you like. Try adding a bay leaf for more depth or some adobo sauce for a smoky flavor.
- Make a Big Batch: If you are meal prepping or making burrito bowls for the week, double the recipe. Canned black beans store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Serve as a Side Dish: These seasoned black beans can be a delicious side dish with grilled chicken, on top of yellow rice, or as a filling for tacos.
Favorite Black Bean Recipes
Now that you know how to season canned black beans, here are some favorite black bean recipes to inspire you:
- Refried Black Beans: Mash the seasoned beans in the pot and cook them on medium heat until they are smooth. Serve them as a dip with tortilla chips or as a side with your favorite Mexican dishes.
- Black Bean Soup: Use the seasoned beans as a base for a hearty soup. Add diced tomatoes, bell peppers, and spices. Simmer in a crock pot for an easy meal that’s packed with flavor.
- Cilantro Lime Rice with Black Beans: Cook white rice and mix it with lime juice, lime zest, and fresh cilantro. Serve with the seasoned black beans for a perfect addition to any meal.
- Bean Salad: Combine seasoned black beans with fresh vegetables like bell peppers, red onion, and corn. Drizzle with apple cider vinegar and olive oil for a cold salad that’s great for hot days.
- Spicy Black Beans: If you love heat, add more chili powder or diced jalapeños to your beans while they simmer. They’ll make a great topping for nachos or burrito bowls.
Pro Tips
Serve beans in a small bowl and use a spoon to get every drop of the seasoned liquid.
If using for tacos, use a slotted spoon to drain before adding to taco shells or taco salad.
Refrigerate leftovers and use within a week.
FAQ’s
Yes, they are fully cooked and ready to serve.
No. They can be eaten out of the can or drained and used in salads and other dishes.
Yes. Previously heated canned beans can be cooled and frozen for one to two months. Add water when reheating to maintain moisture so they won’t dry out.
How to Season Canned Black Beans
Ingredients
- 1 can black beans
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder (or fresh chopped or minced garlic)
- ⅛ tsp red pepper
Instructions
- Open can of black beans and pour into baking dish if baking in oven or skillet or pot if cooking on stovetop. Do not drain beans.
- Add seasonings: cumin, onion powder, garlic powder or fresh minced garlic, and red pepper.
- Place dish in oven at 400°F if baking and bake for 15 minutes or until hot and bubbling. If cooking on stovetop cook on medium heat stirring occasionally until hot.
- Remove dish from oven or skillet from stovetop and serve. They serve best in a small bowl for a side dish.
- If using for tacos, us a slotted spoon to drain the juice before adding to taco filling. Would also make a good burrito or enchilada filling.
- Refrigerate leftovers for up to one week.
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