Best Easy Frijoles Negros de Olla Recipe

Black beans slow-simmered with onion, garlic, and epazote until creamy and tender. This vegetarian, protein-rich staple is the foundation of healthy family meals across southern Mexico.

Cook 240 min Difficulty NORMAL 230 kcal
#vegetarian #mediterranean #high protein
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • dried black beans 2 cups
  • white onion 1 medium
  • garlic cloves 3 cloves
  • epazote sprig 2 pieces
  • water 8 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
  • kosher salt 2 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 36 g 63%
Protein 12 g 21%
Fat 3 g 12%
Serving size 220g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Rinse the dried black beans thoroughly under running water and pick out any debris.

  2. 2

    Place the beans into a large Dutch oven with 8 cups of water, the whole peeled onion, garlic cloves (peeled), and epazote sprigs.

  3. 3

    Bring the pot to a rapid boil over high heat, then immediately reduce to a low simmer.

  4. 4

    Cover partially and simmer gently for 2.5–3.5 hours, stirring occasionally and adding more hot water if needed to keep beans submerged.

  5. 5

    Once beans are creamy and tender, remove epazote and onion, then stir in kosher salt; simmer 10 minutes more, then serve.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The key ingredient is dried black beans, which provide the rich flavor, creamy texture, and protein-packed foundation of this classic Mexican dish. Epazote also plays an essential role in lending authentic aroma and subtle herbal notes.
Q. What is crucial for the perfect texture in Frijoles Negros de Olla?
A long, gentle simmer over low heat ensures the beans become creamy and tender without breaking apart. Stirring occasionally and monitoring the water level helps prevent the beans from drying out or scorching.
Q. How do I prevent the beans from turning mushy or staying undercooked?
Keep the simmer low and steady to soften beans gradually. Make sure the beans stay fully covered with water throughout the cook. Don't add salt until the beans are nearly finished; salting too early can make the skins tough.
Q. How many calories and protein does each serving contain?
Each 220-gram serving contains approximately 230 kcal, 12g of protein, and 36g of carbohydrates. Protein provides 21% of calories, making this recipe a nutritious, plant-based staple.
Q. Which seasoning makes the biggest difference in flavor?
Epazote is the defining herb in this recipe. It adds a distinctive herbal flavor that balances the earthiness of black beans, making Frijoles Negros de Olla stand out from other bean dishes.
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