Frijoles Negros Dormidos con Maduros (Thick Cuban Black Bean Pot & Plantains) – Authentic Cuba Recipe

Ingredients for Frijoles Negros Dormidos con Maduros (Thick Cuban Black Bean Pot & Plantains) (4 Servings)

• 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) tender black beans, prepped into bite-sized pieces
• 1.5 cups sweet fried ripe plantains, washed and trimmed
• 1 cup steamed white rice
• 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with green bell pepper-garlic sofrito
• 1.5 tbsp traditional Cuba seasoning (ground cumin, oregano, splash of vinegar)
• 2.5 cups rich culinary stock or aromatic cooking liquid, plus 2 tbsp cooking oil

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Warm cooking oil in a heavy pot over medium heat; gently sweat the minced onion, garlic, and green bell pepper-garlic sofrito for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
2. Stir in ground cumin, oregano, splash of vinegar and toast for 45 seconds to release the essential oils of Cuba's kitchen.
3. Add tender black beans and sweet fried ripe plantains, tossing to coat in the aromatic base.
4. Pour in the stock, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 18–20 minutes until tender and deeply flavorful.
5. Fold in steamed white rice, adjust seasoning, and ladle steaming hot into deep bowls.