Side DishReader rated

Coconut Water-Infused Black Beans

★★★★★ 4.8 (11 reviews)

These black beans are cooked with refreshing coconut water, adding a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor that makes them extra special. Perfect as a side dish or a hearty addition to your favorite meals, they’re both nutritious and delicious.

◷1 hr 15 minTotal Time

♜4Servings

▥HardDifficulty

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Ingredients

4servings

4 slices bacon, diced1 medium onion, peeled and halved1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and halved1 (29 ounce) can canned black beans (such as Goya®)1 (12 ounce) can unsweetened coconut water½ cup white Spanish cooking wine½ tablespoon ground cumin1 bay leaf

Instructions

Cook and Simmer Ingredients

Start by cooking the bacon, onion, and jalapeño together in a medium soup pot over medium heat. Keep stirring occasionally until the bacon starts to brown and is mostly cooked, which should take about 5 minutes. Then, add the black beans, coconut water, white cooking wine, cumin, and a bay leaf to the pot. Give everything a good stir to combine. Cover the pot and let it simmer over medium heat, checking occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the flavors meld—this usually takes around an hour. When it's ready, remove the bay leaf and give it a final stir before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines the natural sweetness of coconut water with the hearty flavor of black beans. It’s a healthy and refreshing twist that adds depth without extra fat or calories. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for a nutritious meal any day.

Serving Suggestions

These beans go great as a side for grilled meats or roasted vegetables. You can also spoon them over rice or use them as a filling for tacos and burritos. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime brightens the dish beautifully.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the beans seem dry. You can also freeze portions for longer storage, thawing overnight in the fridge before reheating.