Black Beans with Orange

Black Beans with Orange is a flavorful and vibrant dish that combines the richness of black beans with the citrusy brightness of orange. This Latin American-inspired recipe can be enjoyed as a vegetarian dish or enhanced with the addition of meat. With a touch of spice and a variety of serving suggestions, this dish is versatile and satisfying. Serve it with rice or warm tortillas for a complete meal.

MAKES: 4 servings

TIME: 30 minutes with cooked beans

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 cups cooked or canned black beans, with about 1 cup of their liquid
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 navel orange, well washed
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, preferably red or yellow, cored, seeded, and chopped
• 1 or 2 fresh chiles, like New Mexico or habanero, seeded and chopped, or 1 or 2 dried chiles, like chile de arbol or piquin, soaked, cleaned, and chopped (optional)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1/2 cup dry red wine or freshly squeezed orange juice
• Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley leaves for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a large pot, combine the black beans and their liquid over medium heat. Add the ground cumin and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
2. Cut the orange in half. Peel one half and add the peel to the beans. Divide the orange segments and set them aside. Squeeze the juice from the other half of the orange and set it aside.
3. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and chiles (if using), and cook until the peppers soften, stirring occasionally for about 8 to 10 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Transfer the onion and pepper mixture to the simmering beans.
5. Increase the heat under the skillet to high and add the dry red wine. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the wine to reduce slightly. Add this mixture to the beans along with the reserved orange juice.
6. Taste the beans and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
7. Serve the black beans with orange over rice, garnished with the reserved orange sections and chopped cilantro or parsley.

VARIATIONS:

• Black Beans with Crisp Pork and Orange: Render some bacon or salt pork and use the fat to cook Italian sausage and pork shoulder. Add the cooked meat to the simmering beans along with the onion and pepper mixture.

Additional Ideas for Black Beans with Orange:

• Add minced fresh ginger along with the garlic.
• Cook chopped fresh or canned tomatoes with the beans.
• Include ripe plantains, peeled and cut into chunks, along with the beans.
• Incorporate curry powder or Spanish pimentón with the beans.
• Garnish with grated fresh orange and lemon or lime zest.

USES:

• Serve the Black Beans with Orange as a main dish with rice or warm tortillas.
• Use the beans as a filling for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas.
• Enjoy the beans as a flavorful side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
• Serve the beans as a dip with tortilla chips or as a topping for nachos.

Black Beans with Orange is a delightful dish that combines the earthiness of black beans with the refreshing citrus flavors of orange. Whether enjoyed as a vegetarian option or enhanced with the addition of meat, this dish offers a burst of flavors that will satisfy your taste buds. With the provided variations and serving suggestions, you can customize this dish to your liking and enjoy it as a main course or as a side dish. Serve it with rice or warm tortillas for a complete and satisfying meal.