Do you like black beans? How about refried beans? Then you have to try unfried black beans!

Unfried black beans are cooked black beans that are seasoned and served without frying. Black beans are loaded with nutrients such as protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals. By avoiding frying, you eliminate the need for oil. I’ve cut oil out of my diet completely and don’t miss it at all.

Easy Unfried Black Beans

This recipe highlights the natural flavor of black beans that can be incorporated into a variety of meals. Serve them with tacos, burritos, salads, wraps or empanadas. The adaptability makes unfried black beans convenient for quick meals when cooking for one or a large crowd.

Of course unfried black beans are great as a stand alone side dish too. They are also ideal for meal prepping and can be eaten hot or cold. I like to make a batch on Sunday to eat in various dishes throughout the week.

Ways to Eat Unfried Black Beans

Here are a few ideas to get you started, but the possibilities are endless when it comes to incorporating unfried black beans into your meals. Get creative!

1. Tacos: Fill soft or hard taco shells with unfried black beans, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, and the rest of your favorite taco toppings.
2. Burrito Bowl: Create a customizable burrito bowl by layering unfried black beans with cooked rice, sautéed vegetables (such as bell peppers and onions), shredded lettuce, diced avocado, and a drizzle of chipotle sauce.
3. Soup: Blend unfried black beans with vegetable broth, garlic, onions, and spices (such as cumin, chili powder, and paprika) to make a creamy and comforting soup. Serve hot with a garnish of chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
4. Quesadillas: Spread unfried black beans onto a tortilla, top with diced onions, and sliced jalapeños if desired. Place another tortilla on top and cook in a skillet until golden and crispy. Cut into wedges and serve with salsa and guacamole.
5. Dip: Blend unfried black beans with garlic, lime juice, cilantro, and your favorite spices to make a flavorful dip. Serve with tortilla chips, carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips for dipping.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill halved bell peppers with a mixture of unfried black beans, cooked quinoa or rice and diced vegetables. Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
7. Avocado Wrap: Spread mashed avocado onto a whole wheat wrap, top with unfried black beans, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of hot sauce or your favorite dressing. Roll up tightly and slice into pinwheels for a nutritious lunch or snack.
8. Sweet Potato Hash: Sauté diced sweet potatoes, onions, and bell peppers until tender, then add unfried black beans and season with spices like smoked paprika, cumin, and garlic powder.

Unfried Black Beans Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked black beans
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 3/4 tsp salt (optional)
• 1/8 to 1/4 cup water (as needed)

Instructions

Step 1 – Add to Food Processor

Put beans and spices in food processor or Blendtec.

Step 2 – Blend

Process 15 to 20 seconds. Scrape down the sides and process until beans are smooth. Add water and blend again as needed.

Step 3 – Serve

Once cooked, you can serve the unfried black beans immediately, or allow them to cool for a firmer texture. They are delicious both hot and cold.

Can I Use Canned Black Beans?

If you only have canned beans, drain and rinse them. Then follow the recipe as instructed. Most cans only contain about 1 1/2 cups of beans, so you may want to reduce the spices and omit the salt entirely.

Storage

Store unfried black beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

More Versatile, Plant Based Mexican Recipes

If you like this recipe, you’ll love these versatile, Mexican inspired meals too:

• Instant Pot Refried Beans
• Rice Cooker Cilantro and Lime Rice
• Instant Pot Mexican Rice
• Plant Based Nachos
• Instant Pot Mexican Casserole