Saucy Black Beans

By Dani Potts | August 11, 2025

Total time: 30 mins, Servings: 4

INGREDIENTS

  • 1 pound ripe tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil
  • 1 small yellow or red onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves
  • 1 jalapeno or serrano pepper
  • 6 oregano sprigs, leaves stripped from stems
  • ½ teaspoon chili flakes
  • 2 15 ounce cans black beans, undrained
  • A few splashes of vegetable broth or water
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice, plus more to taste
  • 1 cup cilantro, roughly chopped

INSTRUCTIONS

  1. In a food processor or blender, add the tomatoes and pulse until very finely minced but not fully puréed. (Alternatively, you can grate the tomatoes on a box grater.)
  2. In a large sauté pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the onions with a pinch of salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden but not browned, 5–7 minutes.
  3. Add the garlic and jalapeño and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
  4. Add the tomatoes, oregano, and chili flakes. Adjust the heat to maintain a rapid simmer and cook until the tomatoes release their liquid, soften completely, and most of the liquid has evaporated, 10–15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Make the beans: Add the beans and their canning liquid to the sofrito. Cook at a rapid simmer until the liquid has reduced and the mixture is saucy, about 15 minutes. For a looser texture, add a splash or two of vegetable broth.
  6. To finish, add a couple of splashes of olive oil and the lime juice. Season again with salt and pepper to taste, and add more lime juice if desired. Stir in the cilantro and remove from the heat.

Photo Credit: https://www.threelittlechickpeas.com/vegan-black-beans/

BENEFITS

Black beans are a nutrient-dense powerhouse, rich in plant-based protein, fiber, and a variety of vitamins and minerals. Just one cup provides about 15 grams of protein and 15 grams of fiber, supporting both muscle health and digestive health. Their soluble fiber helps regulate blood sugar levels and supports heart health by lowering LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. Black beans are also a great source of folate, iron, magnesium, and antioxidants like anthocyanins, which fight inflammation and protect cells from damage. When paired with whole grains like rice or quinoa, they form a complete protein, making them an excellent choice for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone looking to eat more plant-forward meals.