Name: Habichuelas Guisadas (Dominican Stewed Beans)
Prep time: PT-485205H40M44S
Cook time: PT-485205H40M44S
Total time: PT-485205H40M44S
Yield: undefined
Cuisine: Dominican
Ingredients: 2 cups dried red beans (or 3 cans of cooked red beans, drained and rinsed); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 large tomato, chopped; 1/4 cup tomato paste; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 bay leaf; 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste); 4 cups vegetable broth (or water); 1 tablespoon vinegar (white or apple cider vinegar); 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Habichuelas Guisadas is a flavorful and nourishing meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The tender beans are simmered in a fragrant, tomato-based sauce, making the dish rich and satisfying. With a combination of vegetables and spices, it offers a deliciously well-rounded taste that pairs wonderfully with white rice. It’s simple to make, budget-friendly, and can be enjoyed as a hearty main or a flavorful side dish.

Ingredients

2 cups dried red beans (or 3 cans of cooked red beans, drained and rinsed)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large tomato, chopped
1/4 cup tomato paste
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 bay leaf
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
4 cups vegetable broth (or water)
1 tablespoon vinegar (white or apple cider vinegar)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the beans: If using dried beans, rinse them well and soak them overnight. After soaking, drain and set aside. If using canned beans, simply drain and rinse them before use.
Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic, and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
Add the tomatoes and spices: Stir in the chopped tomato, tomato paste, cumin, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and the spices to become fragrant.
Cook the beans: Add the soaked beans (or canned beans) to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth or water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 1 to 1.5 hours if using dried beans, or 30 minutes if using canned beans. Stir occasionally, and add more water or broth if necessary to keep the beans covered with liquid.
Add vinegar and adjust seasoning: Once the beans are tender, stir in the vinegar to balance the flavors. Taste the beans and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices if desired.
Serve: Remove the bay leaf and garnish with fresh cilantro, if using. Serve the Habichuelas Guisadas hot over white rice.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep time: 10 minutes (for canned beans) or 10 minutes plus overnight soaking (for dried beans)
Cook time: 1.5 hours (if using dried beans) or 45 minutes (if using canned beans)
Total time: 1.5 to 2 hours

Variations

Add meat: For a heartier version, you can add pork, beef, or chicken to the stew. Dominican-style pork or smoked sausage are popular options.
Spicy kick: If you like heat, add a sliced chili pepper, jalapeño, or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Make it vegetarian: Simply omit the meat and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version of this dish.
Different beans: While red beans are traditional, you can substitute them with kidney beans, black beans, or pinto beans if you prefer.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat the Habichuelas Guisadas on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of water or broth if the stew thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I make Habichuelas Guisadas ahead of time?

Yes! This dish actually gets better as it sits, allowing the flavors to deepen and meld together. You can make it a day ahead and store it in the fridge.

Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

Yes, canned beans are a great shortcut. Just drain and rinse them, and reduce the cooking time by half.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, include a chopped jalapeño, a small chili pepper, or a pinch of cayenne pepper while cooking.

What kind of beans should I use?

Red beans are traditional for this recipe, but kidney beans or pinto beans are also excellent choices if you don’t have red beans on hand.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, Habichuelas Guisadas is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions.

Can I freeze Habichuelas Guisadas?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add diced carrots, potatoes, or zucchini for more texture and flavor.

Can I make Habichuelas Guisadas in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can. After sautéing the aromatics and spices, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the beans are tender. Add the vinegar at the end of the cooking time.

How do I make the stew thicker?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash a small portion of the beans against the side of the pot or blend a cup of the beans and return them to the pot.

How should I serve Habichuelas Guisadas?

This dish is traditionally served with white rice, but you can also pair it with fried plantains, crusty bread, or even a side salad.

Conclusion

Habichuelas Guisadas is a flavorful and comforting dish that brings the heart of Dominican cuisine to your table. With its combination of tender beans, rich tomato sauce, and aromatic spices, it’s the perfect meal for any day of the week. Whether served with rice or enjoyed on its own, this dish offers a satisfying taste of the Caribbean. Try it today and experience the warmth and depth of this classic Dominican stew!