Instant Pot Black Beans

Black beans are an unsung hero in many kitchens. They’re affordable, nutritious, and incredibly versatile. You can pair them with a variety of dishes ranging from nachos to burritos, tacos, or even as a standalone dish served over rice.

When it comes to easy and delightful meals, there’s nothing like preparing perfectly cooked black beans in your Instant Pot.

The bustling summer season is upon us, and there’s nothing quite like a delicious black bean dish to serve at outdoor gatherings or quick weeknight dinners.

The magic of Instant Pot cooking allows you to enjoy black beans that are tender and infused with flavor without hours of soaking or slow cooking. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a gateway to creating hearty meals that your family will love.

Why Does This Recipe Work?

Some recipes just hit the mark, don’t they? This Instant Pot black bean recipe is a keeper for several reasons:

Speed: Imagine putting dried black beans into a pot and having them ready in about an hour. The Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting. No soaking time means that you can whip these up with minimal planning.

Flavorful Components: Using spices like cumin and smoked paprika gives this dish a rich, hearty flavor. The addition of garlic and onion elevates the taste profile. These ingredients are background players that shine through beautifully in the final product.

Health Benefits: Black beans are packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. They’re beneficial for heart health and digestion. This dish doesn’t just satisfy your taste buds; it also supports your well-being.

Versatility: This recipe can stand alone or complement a wide range of other dishes. Whether you’re making a burrito bowl or a side for grilled meats, these black beans can adapt. They can easily fit into various dietary preferences, whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just looking to eat healthier.

How Does It Taste?

Ah, the taste! The simplicity of this dish belies its flavor. The beans are tender but not mushy, with a subtle earthiness from the cumin and a little smokiness from the paprika. If you squeeze a bit of fresh lime on top just before serving, you get that zesty kick that lifts everything, reminiscent of a tropical getaway. You can eat them as they are, or pile them in a bowl with your favorite toppings. Either way, your taste buds will sing.

What Sets This Recipe Apart from Other Instant Pot Black Beans Variations?

Many recipes out there may simply boil black beans in water, but this recipe intentionally focuses on flavor. Other recipes might miss the mark by opting for bland spices or not taking the time to develop layers of flavor. Here’s the twist: we’re adding unique elements that create a harmonious flavor profile. The combination of smoked paprika and cumin takes the taste above the ordinary, bringing depth while still being user-friendly.

The Ingredients

Crafting these black beans requires just a few straightforward ingredients. Let’s lay them out clearly so that you are all set.

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
¾ teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
6 cups filtered water
1 bay leaf
2 large garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1½ teaspoons kosher salt
¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Squeeze of fresh lime juice (optional, but recommended for serving)
Generous ½ cup finely chopped white onion
2 cups dried black beans

Instructions

Cooking black beans in your Instant Pot is a breeze. Follow these steps to whip up a delicious black bean dish from scratch.

Step 1: Rinse and Sort Beans

Before throwing them in the pot, take a few minutes to rinse your dried black beans under running water. Look for any small debris or stones that might have snuck in; trust me, you don’t want an unplanned crunch in your meal.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Select the sauté feature on your Instant Pot. Add the olive oil, onion, and minced garlic to the pot. This step brings out the oils and fragrances, creating a flavor base. Sauté them for a few minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant. Don’t rush this step; it sets the tone for the entire dish.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Next, carefully add the rinsed black beans, 6 cups of filtered water, bay leaf, dried Mexican oregano, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper into the pot. Stir everything to ensure the beans are distributed evenly and the spices are mixed.

Step 4: Cook Under Pressure

Secure the Instant Pot lid and ensure the valve is set to sealing. Select the beans function or manual pressure cook for 30 minutes. After cooking, let the pressure release naturally for 20 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once the pressure is released, open the lid carefully. Give the beans a gentle stir and taste for seasoning. Adjust with salt or a squeeze of lime juice if desired. Discard the bay leaf before serving.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

You can serve this dish in multiple ways. Pair them with rice, sprinkle some cilantro, or let creativity lead the way.

Notes

To maximize your black bean adventure, consider these handy tips:

Soaking: While this recipe doesn’t require soaking, if you decide to soak the beans overnight, reduce the cooking time to 20 minutes.
Adjust Consistency: If you prefer soupier beans, add more water during cooking.
Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices can significantly enhance the final flavor. Make sure yours are fresh and not past their prime.
Cook with Ham or Bacon: For a smoky depth, throw in a ham hock or a few strips of bacon during cooking.
Freezing: These beans freeze well. Make a big batch and store them in freezer-safe containers for later meals.

Nutrition Information

You might be curious about the health aspects. Here’s a breakdown of a 1-cup serving of the black beans prepared from this recipe:

These beans are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber. They help keep you full and satisfied.

How Do You Store These Instant Pot Black Beans?

After you have cooked this delightful dish, you might want to store some for later. Here’s how:

Refrigeration: Allow the beans to cool before transferring them to an airtight container. They will keep well in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezing: For longer storage, place them in freezer-safe bags or containers. They can last up to three months. To reheat, simply add some water and warm them on the stove or microwave.

How to make Instant Pot Black Beans Recipe

Sides for Instant Pot Black Beans

Considering what to serve alongside your black beans? Here are a few delightful suggestions:

Cilantro Lime Rice: This simple combination highlights the freshness of the cilantro while providing a flavorful backdrop for black beans.
Cornbread: A slice of sweet cornbread is a classic pairing. It complements the beans beautifully, providing a lovely texture contrast.
Grilled Vegetables: Imagine a colorful medley of bell peppers, zucchini, and corn tossed with a drizzle of olive oil and seasonings. This vibrant side dish harmonizes with black beans.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?

Sometimes you find yourself without key ingredients. No worries; here are some reliable alternatives:

Olive Oil: If you don’t have olive oil, you can substitute with avocado oil or vegetable oil. Both will work just fine.

Mexican Oregano: If this variety is unavailable, regular oregano will do. It will change the flavor slightly, but not drastically.

Smoked Paprika: For a different taste, you can use regular paprika combined with a dash of cayenne for heat.

Onion: If you prefer, shallots or green onions work as a suitable replacement in terms of flavor.

Black beans are an unsung hero in many kitchens. They’re affordable, nutritious, and incredibly versatile.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 45

Total Time 50

Course Main Course (when served with rice or toppings), Side Dish

Cuisine Latin American, Mexican

Servings

Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

Instant pot

Ingredients

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
¾ teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
6 cups filtered water
1 bay leaf
2 large garlic cloves minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1½ teaspoons kosher salt
¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Squeeze of fresh lime juice optional, but recommended for serving
Generous ½ cup finely chopped white onion
2 cups dried black beans