diff --git a/food_related/beans/black_beans.md b/food_related/beans/black_beans.md index f6f2cfb..51f3e31 100644 --- a/food_related/beans/black_beans.md +++ b/food_related/beans/black_beans.md @@ -1,3 +1,66 @@ +# Authentic Slow-Cooker Cuban Black Beans + +## Introduction +Cuban black beans, or "frijoles negros," are a staple in Cuban cuisine known for their rich, savory flavor and creamy texture. This slow-cooker version simplifies the traditional stovetop method while maintaining the authentic taste. Perfect for busy schedules, these beans develop deep flavors over hours of gentle cooking, resulting in a dish that's both comforting and packed with nutrition. + +### Ingredients: +- 1 pound dried black beans, soaked overnight and drained +- 1 large onion, finely chopped +- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped +- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced +- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing the vegetables) +- 2 teaspoons Sazón Goya or to taste +- 1 bay leaf +- 1 teaspoon ground cumin +- 1 teaspoon dried oregano +- Salt and black pepper to taste +- 4 cups water or as needed (adjust depending on the desired thickness) +- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) +- 2 tablespoons white vinegar or apple cider vinegar (optional, for balance) +- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for balance) + +### Instructions: + +#### Preparing and Soaking the Beans: +1. **Soak the Beans**: + - Place the black beans in a large bowl and cover with about 2-3 inches of cold water. Let them soak overnight, or at least 8 hours, to soften and reduce cooking time. + - If the room temperature is warm, place the soaking beans in the refrigerator to prevent fermentation. + - After soaking, drain and rinse the beans thoroughly under cold running water to remove any impurities and to reduce gas-causing compounds. + +#### Prepare the Sofrito: +2. **Sauté Vegetables**: + - In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. + - Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. + +#### Assemble in Slow Cooker: +3. **Combine Ingredients**: + - Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker. Add the drained black beans, Sazón Goya, bay leaf, cumin, oregano, and water. + - Stir to combine all the ingredients evenly. + +4. **Cook**: + - Cover and set the slow cooker to low. Cook for 8-10 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors are well melded. If during cooking the beans seem too dry, add a little more water. + +#### Finish and Serve: +5. **Final Seasoning**: + - Stir in the vinegar, add salt and pepper to taste, and sugar if using. Adjust these final seasonings based on your preference. + - Remove the bay leaf. + +6. **Garnish**: + - Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro just before serving. + +7. **Serving Suggestions**: + - Serve the black beans over white rice for a traditional pairing, or use them as a base for tacos, as a filling for burritos, or as a side dish with a main course. + +### Tips: +- **Timing Flexibility**: The beauty of using a slow cooker is that it's very forgiving. If you need to extend the cooking time slightly due to schedule constraints, the beans will generally continue to improve in flavor. +- **Overnight Option**: You could start the slow cooker before going to bed and have the beans ready for a reheat at lunch. +- **Texture**: For a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the slow cooker towards the end of cooking. +- **Freezing**: These beans freeze well. Consider making a large batch and freezing portions for quick future meals. + +Enjoy your authentic slow-cooker Cuban black beans! + +--- + # Authentic slow-cooker Cuban black beans ## Intro - please provide