If you love hearty and flavorful meals, this Peruvian Beans Recipe is perfect. It is full of spices, tender beans and comforting flavors.
I first tried this recipe on a chilly evening and the smell filled the kitchen with warmth. Making it at home is simple and rewarding.
In this guide, I will show you how to make Peruvian Beans step by step. You will also find easy tips and tricks for the best results.
Why I Love Making This Peruvian Beans
I love making this dish because it is easy, tasty and healthy. The beans stay soft and absorb all the spices. Every time I cook it, my family enjoys it with rice or bread.
It feels like a cozy meal from Peru. Even beginners can make it and impress their friends. The aroma while cooking makes the whole kitchen smell amazing.
Equipment List
- Large pot or saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Ladle
Recipe Overview
- Recipe Name: Peruvian Beans
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 45 mins
- Total Time: 60 mins
- Course: Side Dish
- Cuisine: Peruvian
- Calories: 320 kcal per serving
Ingredients You Need for Peruvian Beans
- 2 cups dried Peruvian beans (can use black or canary beans)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder (optional for heat)
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken stock
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Guide
- Soak the Beans
Rinse beans under cold water. Soak them overnight or for at least 8 hours. - Drain and Rinse
Drain soaked beans. Rinse them again with fresh water to remove impurities. - Heat Oil in Pot
Add olive oil to a large pot. Heat over medium flame until shimmering. - Cook Onions and Garlic
Add onions and garlic. Stir for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and soft. - Add Bell Peppers
Put in red and green bell peppers. Cook until slightly tender. - Add Spices
Mix in cumin, paprika and chili powder. Stir to coat vegetables evenly. - Add Beans and Stock
Add beans to the pot. Pour in stock and add bay leaf. Stir gently. - Bring to Boil
Raise heat to high. Bring mixture to a gentle boil, then lower heat. - Simmer Slowly
Cover pot partially. Simmer for 35–40 minutes until beans are tender. - Check Seasoning
Add salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust spices if needed. - Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top. Serve hot with rice or crusty bread.
Expert Tips & Variations
- Use fresh beans for a more authentic taste.
- Soaking beans overnight reduces cooking time and improves texture.
- Add diced tomatoes for a richer sauce.
- Swap vegetable stock with chicken stock for extra flavor.
- Add a dash of lime juice before serving for brightness.
History or Fun Fact About the Dish
Peruvian beans are a staple in Peru and have been eaten for centuries. They are often flavored with local spices and herbs.
Beans are a vital source of protein in Peruvian diets. Traditionally, they are served with rice or corn, making a balanced and satisfying meal.
Pairings & Complementary Recipes
Peruvian Beans go well with:
- Steamed white rice
- Grilled chicken
- Roasted vegetables
- Avocado slices
- Fresh corn bread or tortillas
Occasion or Event Ideas
This dish is great for:
- Weeknight dinners with family
- Cozy winter meals
- Vegetarian-friendly meals
- Meal prep for the week
- Dinner parties with friends
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
- Reheat gently in a pot on low heat to prevent beans from breaking.
- Add a little stock or water when reheating if the sauce is thick.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbs | 40 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 12 g |
Health Benefits
Peruvian Beans are full of fiber, which helps digestion. They provide plant-based protein for muscles and energy.
Beans are rich in vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium and folate. Cooking them with fresh vegetables increases antioxidant content. This makes it a healthy and balanced meal for any day.
Peruvian Beans Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried Peruvian beans can use black or canary beans
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 red bell pepper chopped
- 1 green bell pepper chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder optional for heat
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken stock
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Soak the Beans
- Rinse beans under cold water. Soak them overnight or for at least 8 hours.
Drain and Rinse
- Drain soaked beans. Rinse them again with fresh water to remove impurities.
Heat Oil in Pot
- Add olive oil to a large pot. Heat over medium flame until shimmering.
Cook Onions and Garlic
- Add onions and garlic. Stir for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and soft.
Add Bell Peppers
- Put in red and green bell peppers. Cook until slightly tender.
Add Spices
- Mix in cumin, paprika and chili powder. Stir to coat vegetables evenly.
Add Beans and Stock
- Add beans to the pot. Pour in stock and add bay leaf. Stir gently.
Bring to Boil
- Raise heat to high. Bring mixture to a gentle boil, then lower heat.
Simmer Slowly
- Cover pot partially. Simmer for 35–40 minutes until beans are tender.
Check Seasoning
- Add salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust spices if needed.
Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top. Serve hot with rice or crusty bread.
Notes
- Use fresh beans for a more authentic taste.
- Soaking beans overnight reduces cooking time and improves texture.
- Add diced tomatoes for a richer sauce.
- Swap vegetable stock with chicken stock for extra flavor.
- Add a dash of lime juice before serving for brightness.
FAQs about Peruvian Beans
Q1: Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Yes. Use two 400g cans of beans. Reduce cooking time to 10–15 minutes.
Q2: Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes. Add extra chili powder or diced fresh chili peppers while cooking.
Q3: Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely. Use vegetable stock and skip any meat. The flavor stays rich.
Q4: How long does it take to cook dried beans?
Soaked beans usually cook 35–40 minutes. Unsoaked beans may take up to 1 hour.
Q5: Can I meal prep Peruvian Beans?
Yes. Store in the fridge up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove gently.
Final Thoughts
This Peruvian Beans Recipe is simple, healthy and full of flavor. It is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights at home.
The soft beans soak up the spices and create a comforting dish. Serve with rice, bread or vegetables for a complete meal.
Once you try this recipe, it will become a favorite. Follow these steps and you will make delicious Peruvian Beans every time.
Zoey Lane is the voice behind ZoeyCooks.com, where she shares comforting, home-tested recipes inspired by everyday cooking. She believes great food should be simple, approachable and enjoyable to make.