Puerto rican style beans

Puerto Rican Style Beans, or 'Habichuelas Guisadas,' combine kidney beans, aromatic vegetables, and a flavorful broth for a comforting dish. Simmered with spices and finished with fresh coriander, it's perfect alongside rice.

13 Nov 2025
Cook time 22 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1/2 onion
3 garlic cloves
1/3 cup red pepper
1 cup coriander leaves
1 tsp olive oil
1.50 cups kidney beans
3/4 cup water
1/2 cup tomato sauce
1 potato
1 tsp bay leaf
1/8 tsp dried oregano
1 dash salt
1 dash black pepper

Puerto Rican Style Beans, also known as 'Habichuelas Guisadas,' are a staple in Puerto Rican cuisine. These beans are packed with flavor and are typically served alongside rice, making for a hearty and comforting meal. This recipe is straightforward and uses simple ingredients to create a delicious, aromatic, and savory dish that anyone can enjoy.

Instructions:

1. Prep the Ingredients:
- Finely chop the half onion.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Dice the red pepper.
- Peel and dice the potato.
- Chop the coriander leaves.

2. Cook the Aromatics:
- In a medium pot, heat 1 tsp of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the onions are translucent.

3. Add the Beans and Potato:
- Add the rinsed and drained kidney beans and the diced potato to the pot. Stir to combine with the sautéed vegetables.

4. Incorporate the Liquids and Spices:
- Pour in 3/4 cup of water and 1/2 cup of tomato sauce.
- Add 1 tsp of bay leaf, 1/8 tsp of dried oregano, and a dash of salt and black pepper.
- Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

5. Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Finish the Dish:
- Once the potatoes are cooked through, add the chopped coriander leaves to the pot.
- Stir to combine and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes.

7. Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot as a main dish or a side, garnished with extra coriander leaves if desired.

Puerto Rican Style Beans are a wonderful addition to your culinary repertoire. Their rich and savory taste will leave you and your family asking for seconds. This dish not only tastes great but also brings the vibrant and warm flavors of Puerto Rican cuisine to your dining table. Enjoy your meal!

Puerto rican style beans FAQ:

How long should I simmer the beans?

Simmer the beans for about 20-25 minutes after bringing the mixture to a boil. This allows the potatoes to become tender and the flavors to meld together.

What can I use instead of kidney beans?

You can substitute kidney beans with black beans or pinto beans. Adjust cooking time if necessary, as some beans may vary slightly in tenderness.

How should I store leftover Puerto Rican style beans?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage, up to 3 months.

What type of potato is best for this recipe?

Any waxy or all-purpose potato like Yukon Gold or red potatoes works well as they hold their shape during cooking.

How can I tell if the potatoes are done?

The potatoes are done when they are fork-tender but not falling apart. You should be able to easily insert a fork into the potatoes without resistance.

Cooking Tips:

- For a richer flavor, consider using homemade tomato sauce if available.

- You can adjust the amount of water based on your preferred consistency.

- If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.

- Make sure to dice the potato into small, uniform pieces to ensure they cook through evenly.

- Let the beans simmer on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

- Serve with a side of white rice for an authentic Puerto Rican meal.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 180kcal
Protein 10g
Carbohydrates 36g
Fiber 8g
Sugar 2.92g
Fat 1.82g

Puerto rican style beans