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Southwest Black Beans

Recipe by LearnToCook on YouTubeAdded 1 November 2026.

15 minutes to prep, 1 hour to cook. A hearty Southwest-inspired black bean side dish featuring aromatic cumin, Mexican oregano, and a splash of wine and vinegar. The beans stay tender yet intact, and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar adds a creamy finish, making it a perfect accompaniment to any meal.

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Southwest Black Beans by LearnToCook, a frame from the YouTube video

Method

  1. Soak the dried black beans for about an hour, then rinse and drain.

  2. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat and sauté the diced green bell pepper and onion until browned, about 5 minutes.

  3. Add ground cumin, Mexican oregano, bay leaf, and minced garlic to the pot; stir and let the spices sweat for 1 minute.

  4. Stir in the soaked black beans, pour in the white wine and add a splash of sherry vinegar; season with salt.

  5. Add enough water to just cover the beans, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45–60 minutes, or until the beans are tender and the liquid has reduced. Add a little water if needed during cooking.

  6. Optional: stir in the chopped cooked pinto beans and chopped red chili for extra heat and texture; cook an additional 5 minutes.

  7. Remove the bay leaf, garnish the dish with shredded cheddar cheese, and serve hot as a flavorful side.

Tips while you cook

Prep beans properly
Soak the dried black beans for about an hour, then rinse and drain before cooking.
Brown aromatics first
Sauté the diced green bell pepper and onion in olive oil until browned before adding spices.
Sweat spices briefly
After adding cumin, Mexican oregano, bay leaf, and garlic, stir and let the spices sweat for 1 minute.
Cover beans with just enough water
Add water only to just cover the beans, then simmer until tender, adding more water only if needed.

Notes from ReelsMeals, based on this recipe's ingredients, times and method. They are not the creator's instructions.

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The recipe comes from LearnToCook’s YouTube video. ReelsMeals wrote it down from the caption and the voiceover. Check the original if something looks off, and for anything about allergens.

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