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Beef bacon fat makes this black beans recipe SUPER savory
Most of the time, I am all about healthy eating. But there are times when I have to make an exception to achieve a certain flavor profile. This is one of those times. The secret in this black beans recipe is the savory and rich beef bacon fat (raised hands!!!). There is just something about the smokey, salty, beefy essence that the fat provides, permeating each and every bean to make them extra delectable. Combine those flavors with trusty ol’ onion and garlic, some earthy cumin, and bay leaf and you have yourself some super savory black beans (drooling).
Savory beans are great for so many meals
Beans, in general, are so versatile. But these beans right here! They will have you wanting to add them to nearly every meal. Most recently, I used them to make a super quick and easy black bean and cheese quesadilla. It was excellent! Here are some more ideas…
What to eat with savory black beans
- Arroz Verde (Mexican Green Rice), of course
- A dollop of spicy Chipotle Cumin Aioli
- A side of Cilantro Pepper Green Beans for a fiber-filled dinner
- Tostada Brunch Bowl for a breakfast fiesta!
Alternatives to beef bacon fat
Obviously, beef bacon fat is not the healthiest option. So if you prefer not to use it, I would recommend replacing it with any of the following:
- Plant-based options:
- Olive or coconut oil, IN ADDITION TO
- A vegetable-based bouillon, liquid aminos, or soy sauce to replicate that savory and robust flavor.
- Other meat-based options:
- Poultry fat or bouillon would be the next best alternative that has a lighter fat content without any loss of flavor.
- Butter contains more water than straight animal fat but definitely does not skimp on the richness.
- Liquid smoke adds a smokey taste that you can control with each dash (just be sure not to add too much to avoid overpowering the dish). I use Colgin Liquid Smoke, Natural Hickory flavor.
However you choose to make these savory bad boys, I know they will be a favorite addition to your go-to quick and easy recipes.
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Super Savory Black Beans
The secret to making these black beans so savory and rich is the beef bacon fat--smokey, salty, beefy essence permeating each and every bean.
Ingredients
- 26.5 oz can of black beans (or two 15 oz cans), drained
- 1 TB beef bacon fat (or beef bacon, minced)
- 1/3 c onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 bayleaf
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 c beef broth
Instructions
- Saute the aromatics. Gather the ingredients to make the black beans. In a medium saucepan, heat fat or oil on medium heat. Add the onions, cumin, and bay leaf. Saute for 3-4 minutes. Then, add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the onions are tender.
- Stir and simmer the beans. Dump in the beans, salt, and pepper. Stir. Next, pour in the broth or stock. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10-15 minutes until the beans are very tender. Serve with rice, in a quesadilla, or as a side dish.
- Serve your way! Serve with rice, in a quesadilla, or a burrito. Yummy!
Notes
Alternatives to Beef Bacon Fat
- Plant-based options: Olive or coconut oil mixed with a vegetable-based bouillon, liquid aminos, or soy sauce to replicate that savory and robust flavor.
- Other meat-based options: Poultry fat or bouillon would be the next best alternative that has a lighter fat content without any loss of flavor. Butter contains more water than straight animal fat but definitely does not skimp on the richness.
- Liquid smoke adds a smokey taste that you can control with each dash (just be sure not to add too much to avoid overpowering the dish).
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 439Total Fat: 2gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 1mgSodium: 156mgCarbohydrates: 80gFiber: 20gSugar: 3gProtein: 24g
The nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used. I am not a doctor, nor a certified nutritionist and make no claims to the contrary. Each individual’s dietary needs and restrictions are unique to the individual. You are ultimately responsible for all decisions pertaining to your health. Please consult your personal physician with any questions you may have regarding your own health and diet.
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