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Sautéed Adobo Black Beans Recipe

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4.1 from 6 reviews

Sautéed Adobo Black Beans are a flavorful and smoky side dish made by simmering black beans with chipotle chilies, garlic, and aromatic spices. This quick and easy recipe uses pantry staples and fresh herbs, delivering a creamy, mildly spicy bean dish perfect for pairing with rice, tortillas, or as a topping for taco bowls.

  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Beans and Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
  • 3 cloves garlic or 1 heaping tablespoon minced garlic
  • 2-3 chipotle chilies in adobo sauce, diced or 2-3 teaspoons chipotle paste
  • 1 can unsalted black beans – do not drain (15 oz / about 400g)
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 3/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt + more to taste
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice (15 ml or about 1/2 a lime)

Fresh Garnishes

  • 3 spring onions, ends removed and sliced
  • small handful fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

  1. Warm oil and sauté garlic: In a medium saucepan or skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and gently sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  2. Add beans and spices: Stir in the diced chipotle chilies or chipotle paste, the entire can of black beans including the liquid, ground cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, and salt. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
  3. Simmer and thicken: Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes. Use the back of a spoon to gently mash some of the beans to your desired thickness. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add 1/4 to 1/2 cup water or broth and simmer until you reach your preferred consistency.
  4. Season and finish: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the lime juice. Taste and adjust salt or seasoning as needed to balance the flavors.
  5. Add fresh herbs and serve: Finally, stir in the chopped fresh cilantro and sliced spring onions if desired. Serve warm as a side dish or topping and enjoy!

Notes

  • For a smoother texture, mash the beans more thoroughly or use an immersion blender briefly.
  • The chipotle in adobo adds smoky heat — adjust the quantity based on your spice tolerance.
  • If you prefer a vegetarian version, ensure your broth (if used) is vegetable-based.
  • These beans keep well refrigerated for 3-4 days and freeze nicely for up to 2 months.
  • Serve with warm tortillas, rice, or as a filling for burritos and tacos.