Slow Cooker Black Beans with Peppers and Onions is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of black beans and vibrant vegetables. Whether you’re looking for a healthy meal or a hearty side, this recipe offers the perfect balance of nutrition and satisfaction. Utilizing a slow cooker, you can let the ingredients meld together throughout the day, creating a warming and flavorful experience that’s both hassle-free and delicious.
Why We Love This Slow Cooker Black Beans with Peppers and Onions Recipe
This recipe stands out because it’s not just about convenience; it’s about flavor and nutrition. The combination of black beans and fresh vegetables makes for a filling dish that’s rich in protein and fiber, essential for a balanced diet. Moreover, the slow cooking process allows the beans to absorb all the delicious flavors of the spices and fresh ingredients. It’s an easy, one-pot meal that can be enjoyed in various ways, from tacos to serving over rice, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.
Ingredients about Slow Cooker Black Beans with Peppers and Onions
- 16 ounces dried black beans
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 medium red bell peppers, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/3 cup minced fresh oregano (or 3 teaspoons dried)
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 cups chicken broth (or water with a bouillon cube)
How to Make Slow Cooker Black Beans with Peppers and Onions Directions
To start, soak your dried black beans overnight in a large bowl, ensuring that there is at least 2 inches of water covering them. This soaking process is crucial as it helps the beans soften and reduces cooking time. Once the beans have soaked, drain them and transfer them to your slow cooker.
Next, add the diced onion and red bell peppers into the slow cooker with the black beans. Then, take your minced garlic and sprinkle it into the mix. To bring out the earthiness of the beans, measure and add the cumin and kosher salt. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
Now, it’s time to add the liquid. Pour in the chicken broth (or water mixed with a bouillon cube) and stir again to combine everything. The liquid will help the beans cook evenly, so ensure that they are submerged.
Cover your slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. During the cooking process, feel free to check in occasionally. This isn’t just about cooking the beans; you’ll want to taste them to see if they need a bit more salt or seasoning before serving.
As you near the end of the cooking time, the aroma of the black beans blending with the peppers and onions will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist. Before serving, remember to remove the bay leaves; you want to avoid anyone biting down on a leaf!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Black Beans with Peppers and Onions
Your Slow Cooker Black Beans with Peppers and Onions can be served in numerous ways. For a simple and wholesome meal, serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. This not only adds a lovely texture but also enhances the nutritional value of your dish.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try using the beans as a filling for tacos. Encasing the rich bean mixture within a soft tortilla, add your favorite toppings—like avocado, fresh cilantro, or a drizzle of lime juice—to elevate the flavor profile even further.
For a lighter option, enjoy the beans on their own as a hearty side. Garnish them with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or even a dollop of yogurt for creaminess, if you choose. The possibilities are endless!
Expert Tips: Slow Cooker Black Beans with Peppers and Onions
- Soaking Matters: Never skip the soaking step. It’s key to ensuring your beans cook evenly and thoroughly.
- Flavor Boosters: Consider adding other spices such as chili powder or smoked paprika for an extra kick.
- Veggie Add-ins: Feel free to throw in other vegetables like corn or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
- Quantity Adjustments: If you’re cooking for a crowd, you can easily double the recipe. Just make sure your slow cooker can handle the volume.
- Monitoring: Cooking times can vary based on your slow cooker model. It’s a good practice to check the beans a bit before the suggested cooking time to avoid overcooking.
How to Store Slow Cooker Black Beans with Peppers and Onions
After enjoying your delicious Slow Cooker Black Beans with Peppers and Onions, it’s important to know how to store any leftovers. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. This will help keep the beans fresh and flavorful.
You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you wish to keep them longer, consider freezing portions. The beans can last for about three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to reintroduce moisture and warmth.
Variation of Slow Cooker Black Beans with Peppers and Onions
While the original recipe is absolutely delicious, there are plenty of variations you can explore to keep things interesting. For a smoky flavor, try adding a chipotle pepper or some diced jalapeños. These will provide a delightful heat that pairs well with the beans.
If you’re looking for a protein boost, add in diced cooked chicken or turkey to the slow cooker. This enhances the dish while still keeping it hearty. Additionally, mixing in chopped spinach or kale just before serving adds a pop of color and a healthful dose of greens.
Another great twist is to incorporate different beans, such as kidney beans or pinto beans. Mixing various bean types enhances the flavor and texture while maintaining the dish’s wholesome essence.
FAQ
What is the best way to cook Slow Cooker Black Beans with Peppers and Onions?
To achieve the best results, soak the beans overnight and cook them on low heat for 6 to 8 hours. This allows the flavors to develop and the beans to become tender.
Can I use canned beans instead of dried for my Slow Cooker Black Beans with Peppers and Onions?
Yes, if you’re short on time, you can substitute canned black beans, but be sure to adjust the cooking time. Since canned beans are pre-cooked, you’ll only need to combine them with the other ingredients and heat them through.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Black Beans with Peppers and Onions?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or tortillas. You can also use it as a filling for tacos or nachos, or serve it alongside grilled meats.
How long can I store leftovers of Slow Cooker Black Beans with Peppers and Onions?
You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze them for about three months in an airtight container.
Can I customize the spices in my Slow Cooker Black Beans with Peppers and Onions?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices such as chili powder, oregano, or even fresh herbs to suit your taste preferences.
Slow Cooker Black Beans with Peppers and Onions
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 16 ounces dried black beans Soaked overnight
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 medium red bell peppers, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/3 cup minced fresh oregano (or 3 teaspoons dried)
- 2 pieces bay leaves
- 4 cups chicken broth (or water with a bouillon cube)
Instructions
Preparation
- Soak your dried black beans overnight in a large bowl, ensuring that there is at least 2 inches of water covering them.
- Once the beans have soaked, drain them and transfer them to your slow cooker.
- Add the diced onion and red bell peppers into the slow cooker with the black beans.
- Sprinkle the minced garlic into the mix.
- Measure and add the cumin and kosher salt. Stir the mixture thoroughly.
- Pour in the chicken broth (or water with a bouillon cube) and stir to combine.
Cooking
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
- Check occasionally and taste the beans to see if they need more salt or seasoning.
- Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the beans over rice or quinoa, or use as a filling for tacos.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or a dollop of yogurt for extra creaminess.
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