Go Back
Print Recipe

Pollo Tropical Black Beans Recipe

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time40 minutes

Ingredients

  • Black beans canned or cooked dry beans – drained but not rinsed if canned (we want flavor)
  • Olive oil – smooth base
  • Onion finely diced – essential for that savory backbone
  • Garlic minced – bold and fragrant
  • Green bell pepper finely diced – subtle sweetness and color
  • Ground cumin – earthy warmth
  • Dried oregano – classic Caribbean note
  • Bay leaf – optional but adds depth
  • Salt & black pepper – season confidently
  • Water or low-sodium vegetable broth – creates that silky sauce

Instructions

  • Sauté onion and bell pepper.
  • Cook 4–5 minutes until soft and fragrant. Stir often so nothing sticks.
  • Add minced garlic.
  • Cook for about 30 seconds. Garlic burns fast—stay alert.
  • Stir in cumin and oregano.
  • Toast the spices for about 20 seconds. This wakes them up and boosts flavor.
  • Add black beans and their liquid.
  • Stir gently so you don’t smash them. Add a bay leaf if using.
  • Pour in a splash of water or broth.
  • Just enough to loosen things up. You want saucy, not soupy.
  • Simmer for 15–20 minutes.
  • Let the beans soften and the sauce thicken slightly. Stir occasionally.
  • Adjust seasoning.
  • Add salt and pepper to taste. Remove bay leaf before serving.