Go Back
–+ servings
Beer-Glazed Black Beans – vegetarian recipe
Stav Kogan

Beer-Glazed Black Beans

This Beer-Glazed Black Beans recipe turns humble beans into a rich, savory, and incredibly flavorful side dish (or main!) in just 20 minutes. The secret is simmering the beans in beer, which creates a complex, malty glaze that's simply irresistible.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 serving
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 tbsp (15 g / 0.53 oz) minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) beer of your choice
  • 3 cups (510 g / 18 oz) cooked black beans, drained (from two 15-oz cans)
  • 1 tbsp (15 g / 0.53 oz) chili powder
  • 1 tbsp (21 g / 0.74 oz) honey (or molasses for a vegan option)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • & Variations
  • Lagers and wheat beers will create a lighter, fruitier dish, while porters and stouts will yield a much richer, deeper, caramelized flavor.
  • For a spicy kick, sauté one or two chopped fresh chiles (like jalapeño or serrano) along with the onion.
  • Easily make this recipe vegan by swapping the honey for an equal amount of molasses or maple syrup.
  • For a tangy twist, stir in 1 cup (240 ml) of chopped fresh tomatoes or 1 tablespoon of tomato paste when you add the beer.

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Once shimmering, add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it softens, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
  4. Pour in the beer, then add the drained black beans, chili powder, and honey.
  5. Season generously with salt and pepper and stir everything to combine.
  6. Bring the mixture to a steady simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has reduced and thickened into a beautiful glaze, about 10-15 minutes.
  7. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a touch of honey if needed.
  8. Serve immediately.
  9. Don't be afraid to swap the beans! This recipe also works beautifully with pinto beans, pink beans, or even black-eyed peas.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 15gFat: 8g

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!