Pascuense-style Black Beans

Ingredients

In the Pascuense-style Black Beans, we incorporate Pascuense ingredients such as coconut milk and pineapple to infuse the dish with tropical flavors. These additions give the beans a unique taste and texture, setting them apart from the traditional Venezuelan caraotas negras. We alse have the original recipe for Caraotas negras, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) black beans, soaked overnight 2 cups (400g) black beans, soaked overnight
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
• 1 cup (240ml) pineapple juice 1 cup (240ml) pineapple juice
• 1 cup (240ml) water 1 cup (240ml) water
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 8g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 12g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Drain and rinse the soaked black beans.
2. 2.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
3. 3.
   Add the black beans to the pot and stir well to combine with the vegetables.
4. 4.
   Pour in the coconut milk, pineapple juice, and water. Stir in the ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. 5.
   Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors are well combined.
6. 6.
   Adjust the seasoning if needed.
7. 7.
   Serve the Pascuense-style Black Beans hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Coconut milk — Shake the can of coconut milk well before using to ensure the cream and liquid are well combined.
• Pineapple juice — Use freshly squeezed pineapple juice for the best flavor.
• Black beans — Soak the black beans overnight to reduce cooking time and improve their texture.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a diced chili pepper to the pot.
• Serve the Pascuense-style Black Beans with steamed rice or cornbread for a complete meal.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, as the flavors tend to develop and intensify over time.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the dish to your taste preferences.
• If you prefer a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to partially puree the beans before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Pascuense-style Black Beans as a main course accompanied by steamed rice or cornbread. Garnish with fresh cilantro for added freshness and color.

Presentation advice

Present the Pascuense-style Black Beans in a vibrant bowl, allowing the rich black color of the beans to stand out. Sprinkle some chopped cilantro on top for an appealing touch.