Habichuelas guisadas is a traditional Puerto Rican dish that is as simple as it is delicious. With just a few ingredients and some simmering, you can experience the unique flavor of this island classic. Here’s how to make your own version of habichuelas guisadas for a taste of Caribbean culture!
To make habichuelas guisadas, you'll need red beans, tomato sauce, a green pepper, sofrito, garlic, and salt. Make sure to check the ingredients of your tomato sauce as some may contain added sugar or extra sodium. You can also add your own ingredients like cumin or herbs to add a more complex flavor profile to the dish.
After gathering all the ingredients, the first step in preparing a delicious batch of habichuelas guisadas is to create a flavorful sofrito base. Begin by heating vegetable oil in a large pot and then adding chopped green peppers, garlic cloves, and sofrito to the pot. Fry the mixture until it's fragrant and then add tomato sauce to combine with the other ingredients. Once fully mixed, you've got your Sofrito base ready for the beans!
After preparing your flavorful sofrito base, add a cup of water and the habichuelas to the pot. Use additional water if needed for desired consistency. Bring the mixture to a boil and reduce heat to simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally until beans are tender. Once fully cooked, enjoy an authentic Puerto Rican dish!
Habichuelas guisadas is a great accompaniment to any main course. Plate the beans with white rice as a traditional Puerto Rican combo, or serve with tostones (fried plantains) and an ensalada. Enjoy this delicious dish solo or with friends for a taste of true island culture!
Habichuelas guisadas can be served with variations and optional accompaniments. For an extra kick, try adding some chopped fresh cilantro and hot peppers. For a smokier flavor, swap the tomato sauce for smoked Spanish paprika. If you're feeling adventurous, try using arroz con gandules (rice and pigeon peas) as your side dish instead of white rice!
