Delicious Habichuelas Guisadas Recipe for a Flavorful, Comforting Meal

Habichuelas Guisadas is a classic Latin dish brimming with flavor, heartiness, and tradition. Growing up in many Latin American households, the smell of simmering beans with spices, garlic, and herbs was often the signal that something special was cooking. Usually paired with rice or used as a side dish, Habichuelas Guisadas brings warmth and comfort to the table. Its appeal is both in its simplicity and the way it brings a little taste of home to those who enjoy it.

With its hearty flavors and healthy ingredients, Habichuelas Guisadas has become a beloved staple, especially in Puerto Rican and Dominican cuisine. Whether you’re new to this recipe or looking to perfect your technique, this guide offers everything you need to make authentic, delicious Habichuelas Guisadas at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe doesn’t require fancy techniques—just a few simple steps and pantry staples.
• Budget-Friendly: Beans and spices are affordable ingredients that stretch across multiple servings.
• Nutritious and Satisfying: High in fiber, protein, and essential vitamins, this dish makes a wholesome addition to any meal.
• Adaptable for All Diets: Perfect for vegetarians and can be adjusted for various dietary needs.
• Versatile Pairing: Pairs perfectly with rice, plantains, and other classic sides, making it ideal for any meal.

Health Benefits of the Main Ingredients

Beans (Habichuelas)

1. High in Fiber: Beans are a fantastic source of fiber, promoting healthy digestion and lowering cholesterol.
2. Rich in Protein: They provide essential plant-based protein, making them a great meat alternative.
3. Full of Antioxidants: Beans contain antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress in the body.
4. Low in Fat: Naturally low in fat, they’re ideal for weight management.
5. Packed with Vitamins: Beans are rich in vitamins like folate, which is crucial for cellular health and energy.

For more health benefits of beans check out this article.

Bell Peppers

1. Boosts Immunity: High in Vitamin C, bell peppers support immune health.
2. Great for Eye Health: Containing beta-carotene, they benefit vision and skin.
3. Antioxidant-Rich: Help protect against cellular damage.

Check out this article for more health benefits of bell peppers.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

• Habichuelas (Beans): Traditionally, red or pink beans are used for Habichuelas Guisadas. However, you can substitute with black or pinto beans if needed.
• Sofrito: A mixture of bell peppers, cilantro, onions, garlic, and other seasonings. This is essential for flavor, but store-bought sofrito can be used if you’re short on time.
• Tomato Sauce: Adds depth to the dish. Diced tomatoes can be substituted if you’d like.
• Seasonings (Adobo and Sazon): Key Latin spices that bring bold flavor. You can create a similar effect with garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
• Potatoes or Squash: Adds body to the stew, but can be left out if you want a lighter dish.
• Olive Oil: Helps to cook the sofrito. You can substitute with any vegetable oil if preferred.

How to Make Habichuelas Guisadas (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Sofrito

In a big saucepan, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions, bell peppers, garlic, and cilantro, stirring until the vegetables are soft and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes.

Step 2: Add the Tomato Sauce and Seasonings

Add the adobo and tomato sauce, season, and coat the sofrito. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to deepen the flavors.

Step 3: Add Beans and Liquid

Pour in the beans (with their liquid) and add water or broth if more liquid is needed. This should create a thick, stew-like consistency. Stir well.

Step 4: Simmer with Potatoes or Squash

Add chopped potatoes or squash, cover, and let the mixture simmer on low heat for 20-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.

Step 5: Adjust Seasonings

If necessary, add additional salt, pepper, or seasoning by tasting and adjusting the spices.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Habichuelas Guisadas can be served as a side dish or over rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Expert Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh sofrito brings out the best flavors in this dish. Try making a batch at home to keep on hand.
• Simmer: A rich and filling stew is produced by letting the ingredients combine during low and slow simmering.
• Don’t Skimp on Seasoning: Adobo and season give the beans their classic taste, so don’t be afraid to add a bit more if desired.
• Check for Consistency: If the stew gets too thick, add a little extra broth. Cook it uncovered for a few minutes if it’s too thin.
• Pair with Rice: Habichuelas Guisadas is often served with white or yellow rice, making it a complete and balanced meal.

Variations and Customizations

• Make it Spicy: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Add Meat: For a non-vegetarian version, include diced ham, chorizo, or bacon for extra flavor.
• Go Vegan: Ensure all ingredients are plant-based, and use vegetable broth to keep it vegan-friendly.
• Use Different Beans: Try black beans or pinto beans for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
• Experiment with Herbs: Try adding bay leaves or a hint of thyme for a different aromatic profile.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigerating: Keep leftovers in the refrigerator for up to four days in an airtight container.
• Freezing: Habichuelas Guisadas freezes well. After letting it cool fully, store it in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in 30-second intervals until hot. If necessary, thin the mixture with a little water or broth.

Serving Suggestions

Habichuelas Guisadas pairs beautifully with:

• White or Yellow Rice: The classic choice for a balanced and satisfying meal.
• Tostones (Fried Plantains): Add a crunchy and slightly sweet side to contrast with the savory beans.
• Avocado Slices: A creamy addition that adds healthy fats and enhances the flavor.
• Salad: A fresh green salad on the side brightens the meal and adds extra nutrients.

Habichuelas Guisadas

Recipe by Chef SarahCourse: LunchCuisine: Latin AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Calories

250

kcal

A rich, flavorful bean stew with classic Latin spices, perfect over rice or as a side.

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) of cooked red or pink beans (or 1 ½ cups)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• ½ bell pepper, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp sofrito

• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

• 1 tsp adobo seasoning

• 1 packet sazon seasoning

• 1 small potato or ½ cup of chopped squash

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Directions

• Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add bell peppers, garlic, onions, and sofrito; cook until tender.
• Add the adobo, tomato sauce, and seasoning; heat until thoroughly combined.
• Add beans with their liquid and additional water or broth if needed.
• Cover, add the diced squash or potato, and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring now and again.
• Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve over rice with fresh cilantro garnish.

Notes

• For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños. You may keep leftovers in the refrigerator for up to four days.

More Recipes to Try

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• Perfectly Steamed Snow Crab Legs Recipe
• Mississippi Chicken Recipe: A Flavor-Packed, Effortless Dinner You’ll Love

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Habichuelas Guisadas brings a comforting, flavorful dish into your kitchen that’s versatile and easy to prepare. Perfectly seasoned, nutritious, and a wonderful addition to almost any meal, this recipe is a go-to for bean lovers everywhere. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and bring a taste of Latin warmth to your table tonight!