A flavorful dish combines tender black beans with the subtle sweetness of coconut water, creating a light and refreshing sauce. It's a simple, wholesome recipe that's perfect as a side or a satisfying main.
Prep Time10 min
Cook Time1 hr 5 min
Total Time1 hr 15 min
Difficulty
Hard
Kitchen Tips
Rinse the beans well before cooking to remove excess starch and improve texture.
Use fresh coconut water if possible for a more vibrant, natural sweetness.
Simmer the beans gently to avoid breaking them apart while allowing flavors to meld.
Ingredients
0/8
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This dish combines the creamy sweetness of coconut water with the hearty texture of black beans, creating a unique and comforting flavor. It’s nutritious, easy to make, and perfect for those looking for a dairy-free, plant-based option.
Directions
Cook the bacon, onion, and jalapeno together in a medium pot over medium heat. Keep stirring occasionally until the bacon is nicely browned and mostly cooked through, which should take about 5 minutes. Next, add the black beans, coconut water, white cooking wine, cumin, and a bay leaf to the pot. Give everything a good stir, then cover the pot and let it simmer over medium heat. Cook until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together, which usually takes about an hour. Keep an eye on it and stir now and then to prevent sticking. Once it's thick and flavorful, it’s ready to serve!
340
people cooked this recipe
ByDavid Brown
David shares approachable recipes, helpful cooking tips, and simple meal ideas.
Serving Options To Try
Serve alongside steamed rice or warm tortillas for a complete meal. Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice for a bright finish. It also pairs nicely with sautéed greens or a simple avocado salad.
How To Store For Later
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried black beans instead of canned?
Yes, but you’ll need to soak and cook them beforehand, which will add time to the recipe.
What can I substitute for white Spanish cooking wine?
You can use dry sherry, white grape juice with a splash of vinegar, or chicken broth as alternatives.
How spicy will the dish be with one jalapeno?
It will have a mild to moderate heat; removing the seeds reduces spiciness.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, omit the bacon and use a bit of oil or smoked paprika for flavor.
Is it necessary to simmer for a full hour?
Simmering for about an hour helps thicken the sauce and deepen flavors, but you can reduce the time if needed.
Can I prepare this in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook the bacon and aromatics first, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze the cooked beans?
Yes, they freeze well for up to 2 months; thaw and reheat gently before serving.
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