27 Mar 2025
Cook time 40 min
Prep time 20 min
Ingredients:
5 cups kidney beans
2 tbsp olive oil
3.50 onions
8 garlic cloves
1 red pepper
5 tomatoes
2 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp bay leaf
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp dried oregano
Pressure cooker Colombian bean stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines kidney beans, onions, garlic, red pepper, tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices. This traditional Colombian recipe is perfect for those looking for a nutritious and comforting meal that can be prepared quickly with the help of a pressure cooker.
Instructions:
1. Sauté Aromatics:
- Set your pressure cooker to the sauté/browning function. Add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil and let it heat up.
- Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for about 4-5 minutes, or until they become translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add Vegetables:
- Add the diced red pepper and chopped tomatoes to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables start to soften.
3. Spice It Up:
- Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, dried thyme, bay leaf, ground cumin, and dried oregano. Stir well to combine the spices with the vegetables.
4. Add Beans:
- Add the soaked and drained kidney beans to the pot. Pour in enough water or broth to cover the beans by about 1-2 inches.
5. Pressure Cook:
- Secure the lid on the pressure cooker and make sure the valve is set to the sealing position.
- Cook on high pressure for 30-35 minutes. If you're using canned kidney beans, reduce the cooking time to 15 minutes.
6. Release Pressure:
- Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for about 10 minutes, then do a quick release to get rid of any remaining pressure.
7. Final Taste and Adjustments:
- Open the lid carefully. Taste the bean stew and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
8. Serve:
- Ladle the Colombian bean stew into bowls and serve hot. It pairs wonderfully with rice, avocado slices, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro if desired.
Tips:
- 1. Soak the kidney beans overnight or for at least 8 hours to ensure they cook evenly and become tender more quickly.
- 2. To enhance the flavor, sauté the onions, garlic, and red pepper in the olive oil in the pressure cooker before adding the other ingredients.
- 3. Make sure to deglaze the pot with a little water or broth after sautéing the vegetables to prevent any burn notices.
- 4. Use fresh tomatoes or canned tomatoes depending on availability; both work well in this recipe.
- 5. Adjust the salt and spices according to your taste preference after the stew is cooked.
- 6. For a smoky flavor, consider adding a small amount of smoked paprika or a chopped smoked sausage to the stew.
- 7. Once the cooking is complete, let the pressure release naturally for a few minutes before doing a quick release for the best results.
Enjoy your delicious and nutrient-packed Colombian bean stew, best served with rice, arepas, or a crusty piece of bread. This dish not only offers rich flavors but also provides a great source of protein and fiber, making it a wholesome addition to any meal.