Black beans are one of the most important staples in Cuban cooking. They are comforting, versatile, and always worth making extra. Whether you’re simmering a traditional pot on a Sunday or pulling together something quick on a weeknight, black beans can stretch into multiple meals without ever feeling repetitive. These are some of our favorite ways to use them, from classic pairings to easy leftovers and party-friendly ideas.
A Little Info on Black Beans
Black beans or as we call them “frijoles negros” are small, oval, black “legumes” that are at the center of Latin American, Caribbean and Cajun cooking. They have a creamy texture that everyone loves, and a delicious sweet earth taste.
Besides being delicious, black beans are actually very good for you. They are stacked with nutritional gold including protein, fiber and antioxidants. This helps with your digestive health, blood sugar and hearth health.
In conclusion, black beans should absolutely be part of your weekly diet. The good news is they are so versatile. They can be used the traditional way, over rice, but also transformed and used in many other ways.
Start with a Classic: Traditional Cuban Black Beans
Let’s start with the traditional way. If you are looking to make “traditional black beans” then look no further than, Ani’s Cuban Black Beans. This recipe is the perfect place to start. This is the traditional way black beans have been made in our family for generations. These beans are slow-simmered, deeply flavorful, and meant to be served alongside countless Cuban meals.
This recipe is perfect when you have time to let the pot simmer and want that rich, familiar flavor that only gets better the next day.
Make them here → Ani’s Cuban Black Beans
Easy Weeknight Black Beans
Some nights call for comfort without the long simmer. Let’s face it, we don’t always have the time for the big song and dance of traditional beans. These Easy Weeknight Black Beans are a quicker, cheat-sheet version of the traditional recipe. They are perfect when you want homemade flavor but don’t have hours to spare.
These beans work beautifully as a last-minute side dish or as a base for bowls and leftovers throughout the week.
Get the recipe → Easy Weeknight Black Beans
Congrí: A Cuban Staple Made Two Ways
This is one of the best ways to enjoy black beans. Black beans shine when paired with rice, and congrí is one of the most iconic Cuban combinations.
Weeknight Congrí
We think this Easy Weeknight Congri Recipe is one of the best ones on our site. This easy version is perfect when you want to make a big batch quickly. It’s ideal for meal prep, family dinners, or when you need something filling that stretches across multiple meals. A great recipe to make at the beginning of the week to have on hand.
Make it here → Weeknight Congrí
Christmas Congrí
Black beans shine their brightest on Noche Buena. Christmas Congrí is the Noche Buena version of contri. It is richer, more celebratory, and meant to be served alongside holiday favorites. This is the congri that shows up when the table is full and everyone’s gathered.
Make it here → Christmas Congrí
Find all our Noche Buena Menu Ideas HERE
Turn Black Beans into Something New
One of the secret best things about black beans is how easily they transform into something different. They are typically just used in their traditional way, however there are a few ways to mix it up.
Black Bean Dip
This recipe will be a hit at your next gathering! Black bean dip is smooth, savory, and perfect for sharing. This is a great way to turn leftover beans into an easy appetizer. Serve it with chips, crackers, or alongside a spread for casual gatherings.
Black Bean Chili
Hearty, comforting, and perfect for busy nights, black bean chili is an easy way to turn black beans into a one-pot magical meal. This recipe is great for weeknight dinners, or cozy evenings when you want something warm and filling without a lot of effort. It takes no time, and the instant pot handles all the work!
Make it here → Black Bean Chili Recipe
Find More of our Favorite Instant Pot Recipes HERE
Pair Black Beans with Your Cuban Favorites
Classically, black beans are meant to be served alongside so many traditional dishes. Some of our favorite pairings include:
- With Ropa Vieja or Picadillo over white rice
- Served with Bistec de Palomilla or Pollo a la Plancha
- Served with Cuban Pork Chops or Boliche
- As part of a simple rice bowl topped with avocado or plantains
They’re the kind of side dish that quietly completes the plate.
Make Extra — Black Beans Get Better with Time
Black beans are one of those rare unicorn foods that improve overnight. The flavors get deeper, the texture settles and softens, and leftovers become even more satisfying.
- At the beginning of the week, make a full pot and you can enjoy them throughout the week
- Make a large pot, and freeze portions for future meals (big life tip)!
- Use leftovers for soups, bowls, quesadillas, salads, dips, or congri.
A little planning can go a long way.
Why Black Beans Are Always Worth It
In Cuban kitchens, black beans are more than just a side. They are our foundation. Moreover, they are budget-friendly, nourishing, and endlessly adaptable. Which is why they show up again and again on the table. No matter how you serve them, black beans have a way of making a meal feel complete.
Looking for more classic Cuban recipes that work for busy weeks and family meals? Explore our full collection of traditional dishes — from everyday favorites to holiday classics — all passed down from Abuela’s kitchen to yours.
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