Black Beans (Venezuelan Style)
Black beans (caraotas negras) are a staple in Venezuelan cooking—tucked into arepas with salty white cheese or served alongside rice, sweet plantains, and shredded beef in the national dish, Pabellón Criollo.
No two family recipes are the same, but most include a generous dose of ground cumin for warmth and depth. In the central region, it’s also traditional to add a touch of sweetness—typically sugar or papelón (raw cane sugar). Here, we nod to that tradition using a splash of maple syrup, which adds richness and a subtle, earthy sweetness.
This version takes a modern, plant-based approach with one flavor-packed shortcut: our Vegan Tomato ’Nduja. It replaces the usual garlic, bell pepper, and tocino (bacon) with a savory blend of slow-cooked tomatoes, garlic, red miso, and Calabrian chili. It brings the umami, complexity, and a gentle kick—not a traditional spice level, but a Saucery twist that takes things up a notch.
No fuss. No hour-long cook time. Just rich, layered flavor in under 30 minutes.
SERVES 4-6
MADE WITH VEGAN TOMATO ‘NDUJA
INGREDIENTS
2 tbsp vegan Tomato ‘Nduja
2 (15oz) cans black beans
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 Spanish onion, chopped small
1 cup water or veggie broth
2 tsp ground cumin
2 tbsp maple syrup
1 tsp sea salt (or to taste)
Optional:
fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Photos + Styling by City Saucery
PREPARATION
Heat the olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5–7 minutes.Stir in the Vegan Tomato ’Nduja and cook for 1–2 minutes, mixing until mostly dissolved and evenly combined with the onions.
Add the vegetable broth and ground cumin, stirring to combine.
Then add the black beans (with liquid if using unseasoned canned beans) and stir gently to incorporate.Cover the pot and bring to a gentle boil.
Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are thickened but still saucy.Stir in the maple syrup and season with sea salt to taste. Adjust sweetness or saltiness as desired.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or parsley if using.
