Imagine a dish that captures the heart of Puerto Rican cuisine in every single bite - rich, comforting, and bursting with flavor. Habichuelas Guisadas isn't just a bean stew; it's a cultural experience that transforms simple ingredients into a mouth-watering masterpiece that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of San Juan. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a curious food lover, this recipe promises to unlock the secrets of traditional Caribbean cooking and leave your family craving more!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups red kidney beans (cooked)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 1 bell pepper (chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Drain and rinse the pre-cooked red kidney beans thoroughly to remove any excess starch or canning liquid.
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onions and bell peppers, sautéing until the vegetables become soft and translucent, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release their aromatic flavors.
- Pour in the can of diced tomatoes, stirring to combine with the sautéed vegetables. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes to develop deeper flavors.
- Add the cooked red kidney beans to the pot, stirring gently to incorporate with the vegetable mixture.
- Sprinkle dried oregano, salt, and black pepper over the beans. Stir thoroughly to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let the beans simmer for 30-35 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or oregano to suit your preference.
- Once the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened, remove from heat and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Serve hot as a side dish or main course, optionally accompanied by white rice or Puerto Rican-style rice and beans.
Tips
- Use pre-cooked beans for faster preparation, but always rinse them thoroughly to remove excess starch and improve digestibility.
- Take your time when sautéing onions and peppers - this builds a flavor foundation that will elevate the entire dish.
- Don't rush the garlic - brief cooking prevents burning and ensures a sweet, mellow flavor.
- Low and slow simmering is key to developing rich, deep flavors and achieving the perfect bean tenderness.
- For an extra authentic touch, consider adding a bay leaf or a small piece of sofrito during cooking.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little water or broth to maintain the desired consistency.
- Let the stew rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld and settle.
- Experiment with garnishes like fresh cilantro or a splash of olive oil for added depth.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
