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The Boat Shed Kitchen

Mexican Black Beans Recipe

These Mexican black beans are bold, flavorful, and so easy to make. Packed with spices, chiles, and fresh cilantro, they’re the perfect side dish for tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meats. Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish brings authentic taste with minimal effort.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 15.5 ounce cans black beans (do not rinse)
  • 1 Tablespoon vegetable oil or bacon grease
  • 1 small white onion chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 jalapeño peppers seeded, minced
  • 1 4 ounce can diced green chilies
  • 1 Tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • Juice from 1/2 lime
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup freshly crumbled Cotija cheese
  • 2 Tablespoons cilantro diced (for garnish)

Method
 

  1. Heat oil or bacon grease in a skillet.
  2. Sauté onion, garlic, and jalapeño until softened, about 1–2 minutes.
  3. Add black beans with liquid, green chiles, cumin, chili powder, and cayenne. Stir to combine.
  4. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat. Stir in cilantro and lime juice.
  6. Season with salt and pepper.
  7. See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/mexican-black-beans-recipe/

Notes

  • Keep the bean liquid for extra creaminess.
  • Adjust spice level by reducing or increasing cayenne and jalapeños.
  • Works great as a taco filling, side dish, or topping for nachos.