The BEST Instant Pot Black Beans | Authentic Cuban Black Beans | No Soaking Required

Introduction

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide to making authentic Cuban black beans using an Instant Pot, as demonstrated by Lana Under Pressure. This recipe is quick, economical, and does not require soaking the beans beforehand. The black beans are flavorful, freeze well, and can be used in various dishes.

Step 1: Gather Ingredients

Before you start cooking, collect all the necessary ingredients. You will need:

• 1 pound of dried black beans (Goya brand recommended)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1.5 green bell peppers, minced
• 1 yellow onion, minced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 tablespoon of white sugar
• 5 cups of water
• 1 packet of Sazon Goya (or a homemade seasoning mix)

Practical Tips

• Rinse the beans under cold water for about 20 seconds to remove dust and debris.
• Check the beans for any small stones or impurities.

Step 2: Prepare the Instant Pot

1. Set Up the Instant Pot: Open the Instant Pot and select the "Sauté" function. Adjust it to the "Less" setting.
2. Add Olive Oil: Pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil and wait for it to heat up.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Avoid high heat when sautéing onions and peppers, as they can brown before they cook through.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

1. Add Onions and Peppers: Add the minced onion and green peppers to the pot.
2. Add Salt: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of salt to help the vegetables release their moisture.
3. Cook Until Translucent: Sauté for about 6 minutes until the vegetables become translucent, stirring occasionally.
4. Add Garlic: Add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Practical Advice

• Use a clip to hold the pot in place while stirring if it becomes too hot.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Cancel Sauté Mode: Press "Cancel" to stop the sauté function.
2. Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the rinsed black beans, 5 cups of water, 1 tablespoon of white sugar, and the packet of Sazon Goya.
3. Scrape Brown Bits: Use a wooden spatula to scrape any brown bits from the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Cook the Beans

1. Seal the Instant Pot: Place the lid on the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to "Sealing."
2. Set Cooking Time: Select "Manual" and set the timer for 45-50 minutes, depending on your texture preference (45 minutes for firmer beans, 50 for creamier beans).

Key Consideration

• Allow the Instant Pot to complete a natural pressure release, which may take 15-20 minutes after cooking.

Step 6: Final Touches

1. Open the Instant Pot: Once the pressure has released, open the lid and stir the beans.
2. Add Final Ingredients: Mix in 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, 0.5 teaspoons of white vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of Goya adobo seasoning.
3. Thicken the Beans: Mash a quarter cup of beans in a bowl and stir the paste back into the pot to thicken the mixture.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over white rice or use in burritos, salads, or other dishes.

Conclusion

You have successfully made authentic Cuban black beans in your Instant Pot! This dish is not only delicious but also economical and versatile. Consider freezing leftovers in portion sizes for future meals. Enjoy your flavorful black beans and feel free to experiment with different seasonings or serving options!