Easy Black Beans for a Rainy Hectic Day

I am having one of those days. I had a million things that needed to get done today and my babysitter called in sick. Ugh. And it's raining. After the work that I was supposed to get done today, I really wanted to spend some one on one time with my 6 year old daughter. Looks like I'lll be with all three kids today and with all the shuffling and whatnot that three kids demands, there's barely a moment to think about dinner. Must make something in advance that takes no time at all to serve later on.

Easy black beans

Easy black beans

Looks like we're having beans and rice for dinner. Yipee! I love beans and rice and I always forget how very easy it is to prepare. Plus on a crappy day, this can be just as comforting as soup but more manageable to eat for the little ones (I dont know about you, but my 2 year old is awful with soup and a spoon). As soon as I got the babysitter call this morning, I prepared these. My kids will be excited and I'm happy that despite the utter chaos of the day and total lack of time, they still get a healthful dinner that's loaded with colorful vegetables, protein and fiber. 

In addition to the rice that I made and set aside, here's how I prepared the beans:

  • 2 cans of black beans
  • 3 chopped carrots
  • 2 chopped stalks of celery
  • 1 chopped onion
  • 2 chopped poblano peppers (bell peppers work fine too)
  • 2 chopped cloves of garlic
  • 1 T  chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 2 T white vinegar
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro 
  • 1 T olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste.
  • Cayenne to taste

In a large pot, saute the onions and garlic in olive oil on medium heat until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the peppers, carrots, celery, chili powder, cumin, salt and pepper and continue to saute for another 3-5 minutes. Make sure vegetables are evenly coated with spices. Add the beans and simmer for about 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the white vinegar and taste for salt/pepper/cayenne preferences.  Add cilantro and stir to combine well. 

Serve plain or with rice. This recipe makes enough for my whole family plus leftovers for lunch tomorrow.