Speedy Spiced Black Bean Spread
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction
Ever find yourself staring blankly into the fridge? Wondering what to rustle up? Well, I've got just the thing! This black bean spread recipe is so easy it's practically criminal.
And honestly, it's far tastier than anything you'll find in a meal deal.
A Tex-Mex Hug in a Dip
This easy black bean dip recipe draws inspiration from the vibrant flavours of Southwestern cuisine. Originating from the Americas, black beans have been a staple for centuries.
Think of this as your own little pot of sunshine. Perfect as a vegan black bean spread .
It’s dead easy to whip up, and takes about 15 minutes max. You will get around 6 servings. So, it is perfect for sharing.
Why You'll Love This
This healthy black bean spread is packed with fiber. Black beans are nutritional powerhouses. This dip is ace for parties, picnics, or just a cheeky midnight snack.
It's also super versatile, so you can slather it on sarnies or dunk your veggies in it. Forget that boring hummus.
Ready to ditch the boring dips and get your spice on? Let’s dive into the ingredients. You will need:
Ingredients & Equipment
Right, let's get our ducks in a row for this Speedy Spiced Black Bean Spread . It's so easy, even I can’t mess it up, and that’s saying something.
This recipe is perfect for a quick snack or a healthy addition to any meal. This black bean spread recipe is destined to become a fridge staple.
Main Ingredients
Here's what you'll need. The quality of the beans makes a huge difference, so get the good stuff!
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon (15 ml) Adds flavour and helps the spices bloom
- Onion: 1/2 medium , finely chopped (about 1/2 cup or 75g)
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced (about 1 teaspoon or 5g)
- Ground cumin: 1 teaspoon (5 ml) An essential spice!
- Chili powder: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) For a bit of kick
- Smoked paprika: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) Adds a smoky depth
- Black beans: 2 (15-ounce) cans , rinsed and drained (approx. 850g) Get good quality beans for the best flavour
- Lime juice: 1/4 cup (60 ml) Freshly squeezed is best, trust me!
- Fresh cilantro: 2 tablespoons , chopped (approx. 15g)
- Water: 1/4 cup (60 ml)
- Salt and pepper: To taste Don't be shy!
Seasoning Notes
Think of this Spiced black bean dip as a blank canvas. Cumin and chili powder are your best mates here.
Smoked paprika adds a lovely depth. Lime juice brings everything to life. Don't have cumin? Coriander will do in a pinch, but it won’t be quite the same.
Honestly, the combination of cumin , chili powder , and lime is just chef's kiss . It transforms the humble black bean into something special! And, if you are vegetarian, remember that it is a great vegan black bean spread
Equipment Needed
You don’t need a fancy kitchen for this easy black bean dip recipe .
- Food processor This is key for getting a smooth texture.
- Small skillet For sautéing the aromatics.
- Measuring cups and spoons For precise measurements.
- Can opener Unless you're super strong!
No food processor? A blender will work, but you might need to add a bit more liquid. The main thing is that this homemade bean dip recipe doesn't need a lot of equipment.
This southwestern hummus recipe is an example of how easy and simple recipes are the best recipes.
Speedy Spiced Black Bean Spread (Better Than a Greggs Sausage Roll, Almost!)
Honestly, forget that soggy sandwich from the corner shop. This zesty black bean spread recipe is where it's at! Inspired by southwestern cuisine, it's a fantastic alternative to hummus or guacamole.
It's packed with earthy black beans, a kick of spice, and a bright, tangy finish. You know? It’s like Southwestern hummus recipe , but with way more attitude.
Prep Time: 10 minutes . Cook Time: 5 minutes . Total Time: 15 minutes . Easy peasy!
Prep Steps
- Essential Mise en Place : Chop the onion, mince the garlic, rinse and drain those black beans. Having everything ready makes life so much easier.
- Time Saving Organization Tips : Get your spices measured out beforehand. Trust me, you don't want to be fumbling around with measuring spoons when the garlic is burning.
- Safety Reminders: Don't get distracted and burn your fingers while sautéing. Hot pans are no joke!
step-by-step to Black Bean Bliss
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add 1/2 medium chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes .
- Spice it Up : Add 2 cloves minced garlic , 1 teaspoon ground cumin , 1/2 teaspoon chili powder , and 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika ; cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant. Oh my gosh, the smell is amazing! That's how you unlock a fantastic Spiced black bean dip .
- Combine Ingredients: In a food processor, combine 2 (15-ounce) cans black beans , 1/4 cup lime juice , 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro , 1/4 cup water , and the sautéed onion mixture.
- Process Until Smooth: Process until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. Add more water, 1 tablespoon at a time, if needed.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Taste, and adjust seasonings as needed. More lime for zing, chili for heat, salt for flavour. Serve immediately or chill.
Pro Tips for your Black Bean Adventure
- Don't skip the sauté! Blooming the spices in the oil releases their flavour is a huge difference. It's essential for that rich flavour.
- Taste as you go! This easy black bean dip recipe is very forgiving. Feel free to adjust the lime juice, spices, and salt to your liking. That's key to a perfect Homemade bean dip recipe .
- Room Temperature Matters: It will thicken slightly as it cools. Add a touch more water if needed before serving. It makes all the difference.
Honestly, this vegan black bean spread is a total game changer. It’s perfect as black bean spread for sandwiches , or served with tortilla chips.
Trust me, you'll be whipping up this quick black bean appetizer all the time! Think of all the black bean spread variations ! I once added some roasted red peppers - divine .
Recipe Notes That Will Make You A Black Bean Spread Pro
Alright, so you're about to whip up this killer black bean spread recipe . Here are a few things I've learned along the way, things that can take you from "meh" to "OMG, this is amazing!".
Honestly, it's all about the little things.
Serving Suggestions That'll Wow Your Mates
Plating is everything, right? Think of it as giving your Southwestern hummus recipe a bit of a makeover. I like to dollop the spiced black bean dip into a bowl, swirl it with a spoon, and then drizzle a little olive oil on top.
Scatter some fresh cilantro for extra flair!
For sides, you can't go wrong with crunchy tortilla chips. But for something a bit healthier, try carrot sticks or cucumber slices. A chilled Margarita? Yes please!
Storage Tips: Keepin' It Fresh
This healthy black bean spread keeps brilliantly. Pop any leftovers in an airtight container and it'll happily sit in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Don't leave it out, nobody likes a dodgy dip!
Freezing isn't ideal, as the texture can change slightly. But if you must , freeze in an airtight container for up to a month.
Thaw overnight in the fridge and give it a good stir before serving. It might need a splash of water to loosen it up.
Reheating? No need! It's best served cold or at room temperature.
Variations to Spice Things Up!
Fancy a bit of a change? Here are a few ideas for black bean spread variations .
For a vegan black bean spread , make sure you are using plant based ingredients, but you likely already are!
Want more of a kick? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeno. For a creamy version , stir in a spoonful of yogurt.
It won't be vegan anymore, mind! Seasonal wise you can use ingredients of fresh herbs for a brighter flavor.
Nutrition Basics: Feel Good Food
Let's talk numbers! Each serving of this easy black bean dip recipe clocks in at roughly 120 calories. You are also getting a healthy dose of protein (7g) and fiber (7g).
Black bean dip with lime and cilantro is good for your gut. This makes it a great, guilt free snack.
So there you have it! All the tips and tricks you need to make the best black bean spread for sandwiches or as a quick black bean appetizer .
Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own. With these tips, you are ready for a homemade bean dip recipe win!.
Now go on, get in that kitchen and give it a go! You got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this black bean spread recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, the flavours meld together even better if you let it sit in the fridge for a few hours. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Give it a good stir before serving, and add a splash of water if it's thickened up too much a bit like reheating gravy!
What's the best way to store leftover black bean spread?
To keep your Speedy Spiced Black Bean Spread fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3-4 days. Make sure the container is properly sealed to prevent it from drying out or absorbing any rogue onion smells from the fridge nobody wants that!
My black bean spread is too thick! How do I thin it out?
No worries, that's an easy fix! Just add water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. You could also add a squeeze more lime juice for a bit of extra zing while thinning it out. Think of it like adding milk to mashed potatoes a little at a time until it's just right.
I'm not a fan of cilantro (coriander). What can I substitute in this black bean spread recipe?
Totally understandable! Cilantro (coriander) can be a bit divisive, a bit like Marmite. A good substitute is fresh parsley, although it will alter the flavour profile slightly. You could also try using the green tops of scallions (spring onions) for a milder, fresher flavour.
Can I freeze this black bean spread?
Yes, you can freeze black bean spread, although the texture might change slightly upon thawing. Store it in a freezer safe container, leaving a little room at the top as it expands when frozen. When you're ready to use it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
You might need to give it a good stir and add a splash of water to restore its original consistency. A quick blitz in the food processor should sort it!
How can I add a bit more kick to this Speedy Spiced Black Bean Spread?
If you're after a bit more heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely chopped jalapeño to the skillet when sautéing the onion and garlic. You could also add a dash of your favourite hot sauce (like Tabasco or Sriracha) to the food processor when blending everything together.
Just remember to taste as you go you don't want to set your mouth on fire!
Speedy Spiced Black Bean Spread
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 120 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 3g |
| Fiber | 7g |