Frijoles Colorados, or Cuban Red Beans, is a traditional dish that brings the rich flavors of Cuban cuisine to your table. This hearty and flavorful recipe is perfect for family gatherings or a comforting meal on a chilly evening. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to create this delicious dish, ensuring that you capture the authentic taste of Cuba in every bite.

Frijoles Colorados is a beloved Cuban dish that combines red beans with a variety of vegetables, spices, and meats to create a savory and satisfying meal. The key to this recipe is the slow cooking process, which allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of dried red beans
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 large tomato, chopped
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon of cumin
• 1 teaspoon of oregano
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 cup of olive oil
• 1/2 pound of smoked ham, diced
• 1/2 pound of chorizo, sliced
• 4 cups of chicken broth
• 2 cups of water
• 1/4 cup of dry white wine (optional)
• 1 tablespoon of vinegar
• 1 tablespoon of sugar
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beans: Begin by rinsing the dried red beans thoroughly under cold water. Place them in a large pot and cover with water. Let them soak overnight or use the quick soak method by boiling them for 2 minutes, then letting them sit for an hour.

2. Cook the Beans: Drain the soaked beans and return them to the pot. Add the chicken broth and water, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let the beans simmer for about 1 hour, or until they are tender.

3. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

4. Add the Meats: Add the diced smoked ham and sliced chorizo to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the meats to brown slightly and release their flavors.

5. Combine Ingredients: Transfer the sautéed vegetables and meats to the pot with the beans. Add the chopped tomato, bay leaf, cumin, oregano, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

6. Simmer: Cover the pot and let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking process will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

7. Final Touches: After an hour, add the dry white wine (if using), vinegar, and sugar to the pot. Stir well and let it simmer for an additional 15 minutes.

8. Serve: Remove the bay leaf and discard. Serve the Frijoles Colorados hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. This dish pairs wonderfully with white rice or crusty bread.

Tips for Success:

• Soaking the Beans: Soaking the beans overnight helps to reduce cooking time and ensures they cook evenly. If you’re short on time, the quick soak method works well too.
• Adjusting Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. Some people prefer a spicier dish and may add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and chorizo. You can add more vegetables like carrots and celery for added flavor and texture.

Frijoles Colorados is a delightful Cuban dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re new to Cuban cuisine or a seasoned cook, this recipe is easy to follow and yields delicious results. Enjoy the taste of Cuba with every bite of this savory and satisfying dish.