Black Beans in the Instant Pot

This Instant Pot Black Beans Recipe is made with lime, cilantro, black beans, and broth in an Instant Pot.

Black beans, also known as turtle beans, are not only a delicious addition to your meals but also a nutrient-rich source of plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They offer numerous health benefits, including aiding digestion, stabilizing blood sugar levels, and promoting heart health. Incorporating black beans into your diet is a fantastic way to boost your overall well-being.

The Instant Pot has become a beloved kitchen appliance, and for good reason. Its multifunctionality, time-saving capabilities, and ability to infuse rich flavors into dishes have revolutionized home cooking. With the Instant Pot, you can say goodbye to long hours spent simmering beans on the stove. Instead, you'll enjoy perfectly cooked black beans in a fraction of the time.

If you love this recipe, feel free to try my Instant Pot Baked Beans Recipe or my Instant Pot Black Beans Recipe.

Jump to:

• Benefits of Black Beans
• Why are Instant Pot Black Beans so great?
• Instant Pot Black Beans Recipe Ingredients
• How to make Instant Pot Black Beans
• What to serve with Instant Pot Black Beans
• Substitutions
• Instant Pot Black Beans Recipe Variations
• Equipment
• How to store Instant Pot Black Beans
• Instant Pot Black Beans Recipe Top tip
• Instant Pot Black Beans Recipe
• Food safety

Benefits of Black Beans

• High in Fiber: Black beans are a fantastic source of dietary fiber, both soluble and insoluble. Fiber promotes healthy digestion, aids in maintaining regular bowel movements, and helps prevent constipation. Additionally, a high-fiber diet can contribute to better weight management and reduced risk of heart disease.
• Plant-Based Protein: Black beans are an excellent plant-based protein source, making them an ideal choice for vegetarians, vegans, and individuals looking to reduce their meat consumption. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and maintaining overall health.
• Rich in Antioxidants: Black beans are packed with antioxidants, which help combat the damaging effects of free radicals in the body. These antioxidants, including flavonoids and anthocyanins, have been associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and inflammation.
• Heart Health: Black beans promote heart health due to their high fiber content, low saturated fat content, and valuable nutrients such as potassium and folate. The fiber helps lower cholesterol levels, while potassium supports healthy blood pressure. Folate, a B-vitamin found in black beans, aids in reducing homocysteine levels and supports cardiovascular health.

Why are Instant Pot Black Beans so great?

• Time-Saving Convenience: One of the most significant advantages of using the Instant Pot for cooking black beans is the time-saving convenience it offers. Traditional stovetop cooking methods for beans can take hours of soaking and simmering. In contrast, the Instant Pot significantly reduces the cooking time, allowing you to enjoy perfectly cooked black beans in a fraction of the time. With pressure cooking technology, the Instant Pot can cook beans in as little as 30 minutes, including the time it takes to come to pressure.
• Even Cooking: The Instant Pot provides consistent and even cooking, ensuring that your black beans are cooked thoroughly without any undercooked or overcooked portions. The pressure cooking method of the Instant Pot allows for quick and even heat distribution, resulting in uniformly cooked beans with a creamy texture.
• Retention of Nutrients and Flavor: The sealed environment of the Instant Pot helps retain the nutrients and flavors of the black beans. Unlike traditional boiling methods that may cause nutrient loss due to prolonged exposure to water, pressure cooking helps preserve the nutritional value of the beans, including their fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals. This means you can enjoy the full benefits of black beans in your meals.

Instant Pot Black Beans Recipe Ingredients

You'll only need a few simple ingredients to make this. The exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below. Here's an overview of what you'll need:

• Black Beans
• Broth
• Bay leaves
• Cilantro
• Lime

See recipe card for quantities.

How to make Instant Pot Black Beans

Note: The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the age and quality of the dried beans. If your beans are older, you may need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes to ensure they are fully cooked and tender.

What to serve with Instant Pot Black Beans

• Rice: A classic combination, serving Instant Pot black beans with steamed rice creates a wholesome and nutritious meal. Opt for white rice, brown rice, or even flavored rice like cilantro-lime or coconut rice to add an extra dimension of flavor.
• Tacos or Burritos: Use the Instant Pot black beans as a filling for tacos or burritos. Add some shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, and a dollop of sour cream or salsa for a delicious and customizable Mexican-inspired meal.
• Salad: Create a vibrant and protein-packed salad by adding Instant Pot black beans to a bed of mixed greens or spinach. Top it with your favorite vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and bell peppers. Finish it off with a zesty dressing like lime-cilantro or avocado dressing.
• Enchiladas: Incorporate the Instant Pot black beans as a filling in enchiladas along with cheese, sautéed vegetables, and your choice of protein like shredded chicken or beef. Top with enchilada sauce and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Quinoa or Grain Bowls: Create a nourishing grain bowl by pairing Instant Pot black beans with cooked quinoa, brown rice, or any other grain of your choice. Add roasted or sautéed vegetables, a protein source like grilled chicken or tofu, and a drizzle of your favorite sauce or dressing.

Substitutions

• Black Beans: If you don't have black beans on hand, you can substitute them with other types of beans such as pinto beans, kidney beans, or navy beans. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the type of beans you choose.
• Broth: If you don't have broth available, you can use water as a substitute. While broth adds flavor, water will still allow the beans to cook and soften. You can enhance the flavor by adding additional seasonings or spices to the recipe.
• Bay Leaves: Bay leaves contribute a subtle earthy flavor to the beans. If you don't have bay leaves, you can omit them from the recipe or use other herbs like thyme or oregano to add some flavor to the beans.
• Cilantro: If you're not a fan of cilantro or don't have it on hand, you can replace it with other herbs such as parsley or basil. These herbs will provide a fresh and aromatic element to the dish.
• Lime: Lime adds a tangy and citrusy note to the black beans. If you don't have lime, you can substitute it with lemon juice or even vinegar (such as apple cider or white wine vinegar) to add a touch of acidity and brightness to the beans.

Instant Pot Black Beans Recipe Variations

• Smoky Chipotle Black Beans: Add a smoky and spicy twist to your black beans by incorporating chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Simply chop 1 or 2 chipotle peppers and add them to the Instant Pot along with the black beans, broth, and other seasonings. The adobo sauce will infuse the beans with a smoky, tangy flavor. Check out my Mexican Charro Beans Recipe.
• Cuban-Style Black Beans: Create a Cuban-inspired dish by adding flavors like oregano, cumin, and bay leaves to the Instant Pot along with the black beans. Sauté diced onions and bell peppers until softened before adding them to the pot. Serve the beans with white rice, tostones, and a side of fried or grilled pork.
• Mexican-Inspired Black Beans: For a Mexican twist, add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel) to the Instant Pot along with the black beans. Season with cumin, oregano, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for added heat. Serve the beans as a side dish for enchiladas, tacos, or fajitas.

Equipment

• Instant Pot: The Instant Pot is an electric pressure cooker that will be the primary cooking vessel for your black beans. It combines pressure cooking, slow cooking, sautéing, and other functions in one appliance. Ensure you have a working Instant Pot with a sealing ring and a functioning pressure release valve.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: You'll need measuring cups to accurately measure the amount of black beans and liquid (such as broth or water) required for the recipe. Measuring spoons will help you add precise amounts of spices and seasonings.
• Colander or Strainer: A colander or strainer will be useful for rinsing the dried black beans before cooking. It allows you to remove any impurities or debris from the beans.
• Cutting Board and Knife: You'll need a cutting board and a knife to chop onions, garlic, cilantro, or any other ingredients you plan to include in your black bean recipe.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: A wooden spoon or silicone spatula will be helpful for stirring the ingredients in the Instant Pot, especially during the sautéing stage.
• Serving Dish or Bowl: Once the black beans are cooked, you'll need a serving dish or bowl to transfer and present the finished dish.

How to store Instant Pot Black Beans

• Cool the Beans: Allow the cooked black beans to cool down to room temperature before storing them. This helps prevent condensation and moisture buildup in the storage container.
• Portion the Beans: Divide the cooked black beans into smaller portions based on your needs. You can separate them into meal-sized portions or store them in a single large container if you plan to use them all at once.
• Choose Storage Containers: Opt for airtight containers or resealable freezer bags for storing the black beans. Ensure the containers are clean and free of any lingering odors.
• Add Liquid (Optional): If you prefer storing the black beans with some liquid, you can include a small amount of the cooking liquid or broth in the containers. This can help maintain moisture and prevent the beans from drying out. Alternatively, you can also store the beans without liquid if desired.
• Label and Date: To keep track of the storage time, label the containers with the contents and date of preparation. This will help you identify the beans and ensure they are consumed within a reasonable timeframe.
• Refrigeration or Freezing: You have two options for storing Instant Pot black beans:
  • Refrigeration: If you plan to consume the beans within 3-4 days, store them in the refrigerator. Place the sealed containers in the refrigerator and make sure the temperature is set at or below 40°F (4°C).
  • Freezing: To store the beans for a longer period, freezing is the best option. Transfer the sealed containers or resealable bags to the freezer. Lay the bags flat to allow for easy stacking and quicker thawing. The beans can be frozen for up to 3-4 months.
• Thawing and Reheating: When ready to use the stored black beans, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Add additional seasonings or ingredients as desired.

Instant Pot Black Beans Recipe Top tip

• Rinse the beans: Before cooking, be sure to rinse the dried black beans under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
• Adjust cooking time: The cooking time can vary based on the age and size of the black beans. If you find that the beans are not fully cooked or are too firm after the initial cooking time, you can easily add a few extra minutes of pressure cooking time to ensure they are tender.
• Flavor enhancements: While the basic recipe is delicious on its own, feel free to experiment with additional seasonings and ingredients to enhance the flavor of your black beans. Consider adding spices like cumin, paprika, or chili powder, along with diced onions, garlic, or bell peppers.
• Natural pressure release: Allow the Instant Pot to naturally release the pressure after cooking the black beans. This can help ensure that the beans retain their shape and don't become mushy. It's worth the extra wait for better results.
• Make a large batch and freeze: Black beans freeze well, so consider making a larger quantity than you need for one meal. Portion out the cooked black beans into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags and freeze them for later use. This will save you time and effort in the future when you want a quick and nutritious meal.
• Serve with toppings: While black beans are delicious on their own, you can take them to the next level by serving them with toppings. Consider adding fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, or a squeeze of lime juice. These toppings can add texture, freshness, and a burst of flavor to your black beans.

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Food safety

• Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
• Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
• Wash hands after touching raw meat
• Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
• Never leave cooking food unattended
• Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
• Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove

See more guidelines at USDA.gov.