Black Beans!

I make these black beans using canned beans but you can also make them with the dried beans. Just soak overnight and boil until soft, then follow the instructions here. I love to make beans from scratch but for some reason I never plan ahead that well. This recipe is full of flavor and pairs well with just about any meat dish. Try it and let us know how it turns out.

Makes 5 – 6 servings

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cans of black beans (drained and washed)
• 1/2 white onion (diced)
• 5 – 6 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 2 tsp cumin
• 2 cups vegetable stock or water
• 1/2 cup cilantro (chopped)

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a sauce pan on medium heat.
2. Add onions and saute for 4 – 5 minutes until soft and lightly browned.
3. Add garlic and saute for another 1 – 2 minutes.
4. Add beans, spices and vegetable stock and simmer on low to medium heat for 15 – 20 minutes until soft.
5. Taste for salt and pepper and add more if needed.
6. Add more water if beans need a bit more cooking.
7. Take 1/3 – 1/2 cup of finished beans and puree in a food processor and add back to the beans.
8. Top with chopped cilantro and serve.

Note: You can skip step # 7 and it will still be delicious with all the awesome flavors. I do this step because I like having a thick smooth sauce.