Chef Denise shares her most delicious Mexican Black Bean recipe. At Billabong Retreat we love to cook with black beans due to their rich, earthy flavour and dense nutritional profile.
Black beans are a powerhouse of health benefits and are packed with protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals. Their high fibre content supports digestive health by promoting regularity and preventing constipation, while also helping to stabilise blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of diabetes.
Black beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making them a valuable addition to vegetarian and vegan diets, aiding in muscle repair and growth. Rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients, they contribute to cardiovascular health by lowering cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of heart disease.
Furthermore, their abundance of folate and magnesium supports brain function and mood regulation, promoting mental clarity and emotional balance. Incorporating black beans into your diet not only enhances flavour and texture but also delivers a myriad of health benefits for a vibrant, nourished life.
Denise’s Spicy Mexican Black Beans
Ingredients
- 250g black beans
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 medium sized onion
- 4 cloves garlic
- 2 tbsp cumin
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 freshly diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp paprika
- Handful chopped coriander
Method
- Soak beans for 24 hours.
- Drain beans and boil in fresh water with bay leaves until tender.
- In a separate pan sauté the onions and garlic until translucent.
- Stir in cumin, tomato paste and add diced tomatoes to the onion and garlic.
- Add 4 ladles of liquid from the beans to the tomatoes.
- Drain some liquid from the beans and leave half submerged.
- Add the tomato sauce to the beans and let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add salt and pepper to taste
- Garnish with coriander
- Serve with rice, roast sweet potatoes and guacamole.