Slow Cooker Black Beans

When I think of comfort food, the first thing that comes to mind is Slow Cooker Black Beans. This dish has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and for good reason! The aroma of simmering beans fills the air, inviting everyone to gather around the table. It’s not just the delicious flavor but also the simplicity and versatility that make this dish a winner. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply enjoying a quiet night at home, Slow Cooker Black Beans never disappoints. You can serve it as a hearty main dish, a side, or even as a topping for tacos or nachos. The best part? You can set it and forget it, thanks to the magic of the slow cooker. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Just toss everything in, and let the slow cooker do its thing!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Black Beans

The ingredients for Slow Cooker Black Beans are simple yet impactful. Each element works together to create a flavorful and hearty dish. The key players here are the dried black beans, which provide the base for this nutritious meal, and garlic, which adds a warm, aromatic touch. The spices such as cumin and chili powder enhance the flavor profile, while salt helps to bring everything together. These ingredients are not only affordable but also readily available, making this recipe accessible for anyone.

• Dried Black Beans: 2 pounds of dried black beans are the star of this dish. They need to be soaked before cooking to ensure even cooking and to enhance their digestibility.
• Garlic Cloves: Use 2 to 6 garlic cloves (peeled). Garlic adds a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor to the beans.
• Dried Cumin: 1 tablespoon of dried cumin provides a warm, earthy flavor that complements the beans beautifully.
• Dried Chili Powder: 1 tablespoon of dried chili powder adds a touch of heat and complexity to the dish.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon of salt is essential to enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.

Recipe Steps for Slow Cooker Black Beans

Cooking Slow Cooker Black Beans is a straightforward process that anyone can master. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!

1. Start by rinsing the dried black beans under cold water. This helps remove any dirt or impurities. After rinsing, place them in a large bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak overnight, or at least for 6 to 8 hours. Soaking the beans softens them and reduces cooking time.
2. Once soaked, drain and rinse the black beans again. Next, add the soaked beans to the bowl of a 4 to 5-quart slow cooker. This is where the magic happens!
3. Peel the garlic cloves and add them to the slow cooker along with the soaked beans. The garlic will infuse a lovely flavor as the beans cook.
4. Now, measure out 1 tablespoon of dried cumin and 1 tablespoon of dried chili powder. Sprinkle these spices over the beans. They will add a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible.
5. Finally, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of salt into the mixture. You can always adjust the salt later, but it’s essential to add some at this stage.
6. Pour in enough water to cover the beans by about 4 inches. This is crucial as the beans will absorb a lot of liquid while cooking.
7. Place the cover on securely and set your slow cooker to LOW. Cook for 7 to 8 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can cook them on HIGH for 4 to 5 hours, but I recommend the low setting for the best flavor and texture.
8. It’s okay if the beans sit on WARM for an hour or two after they’re done cooking. This allows them to soak up even more flavor.
9. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to drain the beans or gently pour them into a colander. You can serve them warm, adjusting the salt if needed. They’re perfect on their own or as a side dish!

Ways to Customize

There are so many ways to customize Slow Cooker Black Beans to fit your preferences. Here are some tips to make it your own!

• Spice Level: If you love heat, consider adding more chili powder or even some diced jalapeños to the mix. This will give your beans a spicy kick that’s sure to please!
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can brighten up the dish. Stir in some chopped herbs just before serving for a fresh touch.
• Vegetables: Add chopped bell peppers, onions, or tomatoes to the slow cooker for additional flavor and nutrition. They will complement the beans wonderfully.
• Texture: For a creamier texture, consider mashing some of the beans before serving. This adds a comforting creaminess that’s perfect for topping rice or tortillas.
• Serving Options: Serve the beans over rice, in tacos, or even as a filling for burritos. They also make a great dip for tortilla chips!

Serving Ideas for Slow Cooker Black Beans

If you’re wondering how to serve Slow Cooker Black Beans, you’ll be pleased to know that they are incredibly versatile! Here are some fantastic serving suggestions:

• With Rice: Serve the beans over a bed of fluffy rice for a satisfying meal. This combination is filling and nutritious.
• Tacos: Use Slow Cooker Black Beans as a filling for tacos. Top with fresh avocado, salsa, and cheese for a delicious treat.
• Burritos: Combine the beans with rice, cheese, and your favorite toppings, then wrap them in a tortilla for a hearty burrito.
• Nachos: Layer the beans on top of tortilla chips with cheese, jalapeños, and sour cream for a fantastic nacho platter.
• Salad: Toss the beans into a green salad for added protein and texture. They make a great addition to any salad recipe.
• For Meal Prep: Pack portions into airtight containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. They reheat beautifully and keep well in the fridge.
• As A Side: Serve as a side dish at barbecues or family gatherings. They pair perfectly with grilled meats and other hearty dishes.

FAQ

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Black Beans is a dish that combines simplicity with flavor, making it a beloved recipe in many households. Its versatility allows for countless variations, and it’s easy to prepare ahead of time. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

So why not make it tonight? You’ll love the rich, hearty flavors and the smiles it brings to your table.

Slow Cooker Black Beans

The ultimate comfort food, Slow Cooker Black Beans are an easy weeknight dinner option that is both delicious and nutritious. With aromatic spices and hearty beans, this dish will satisfy your cravings. Make it tonight for a meal everyone will love!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 7 hours hrs

Total Time 7 hours hrs 5 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 19 servings

Calories 200 kcal

Equipment

• Crockpot

Ingredients

  

• 2 pounds dried black beans
• 2-6 cloves garlic cloves peeled
• 1 tablespoon dried cumin
• 1 tablespoon dried chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

 

• Start by rinsing the dried black beans under cold water. This helps remove any dirt or impurities. After rinsing, place them in a large bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak overnight, or at least for 6 to 8 hours. Soaking the beans softens them and reduces cooking time.
• Once soaked, drain and rinse the black beans again. Next, add the soaked beans to the bowl of a 4 to 5-quart slow cooker. This is where the magic happens!
• Peel the garlic cloves and add them to the slow cooker along with the soaked beans. The garlic will infuse a lovely flavor as the beans cook.
• Now, measure out 1 tablespoon of dried cumin and 1 tablespoon of dried chili powder. Sprinkle these spices over the beans. They will add a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible.
• Finally, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of salt into the mixture. You can always adjust the salt later, but it’s essential to add some at this stage.
• Pour in enough water to cover the beans by about 4 inches. This is crucial as the beans will absorb a lot of liquid while cooking.
• Place the cover on securely and set your slow cooker to LOW. Cook for 7 to 8 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can cook them on HIGH for 4 to 5 hours, but I recommend the low setting for the best flavor and texture.
• It’s okay if the beans sit on WARM for an hour or two after they’re done cooking. This allows them to soak up even more flavor.
• Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to drain the beans or gently pour them into a colander. You can serve them warm, adjusting the salt if needed. They’re perfect on their own or as a side dish!

Notes

• Instant Pot: Add beans and 10 cups of water to an Instant Pot. Stir in seasonings. Cook on high for 45 minutes and let the pressure naturally release.
• Storage: Let the beans cool and portion into airtight containers, freezer containers, or freezer storage bags. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw from frozen overnight in the fridge or at room temperature. I recommend freezing in portions that work for one meal for your family. I usually freeze 2 cup portions.
• To make 1 pound of beans: Cook as directed, cutting the seasonings in half.

Keyword Crockpot Black Beans, Easy Bean Recipe, Healthy Black Beans, Slow Cooker Black Beans

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Meet Lydia James

I’m Lydia! I love the challenge of experimenting with new ingredients and finding creative, delicious ways to use up leftovers. My goal is to make your weeknight cooking feel stress-free, exciting, and full of flavor. I loved the creative process behind this dish, and I really hope it becomes a new favorite in your weekly rotation. I can't wait to hear what you think!