-ounce can black beans

Black beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) are a legume native to Central and South America, domesticated thousands of years ago and now cultivated worldwide. These small, kidney-shaped beans have a deep black seed coat with a slightly flattened profile and a dense, creamy interior. When cooked, they develop a mild, earthy flavor with subtle sweetness and tender texture that readily absorbs accompanying spices and aromatics. Black beans are a staple in Latin American, Caribbean, and increasingly global cuisines.

Black beans are foundational to Caribbean and Latin American cooking, appearing in dishes such as Cuban black beans and rice (moros y cristianos), Brazilian feijoada, and Mexican refried beans. They are commonly simmered with aromatic vegetables (onions, garlic, bell peppers), cumin, and bay leaf to create both soup-like preparations and thicker bean dishes. Canned black beans, fully cooked and ready to use, expedite preparation for weeknight cooking, tacos, burrito bowls, salads, and soups. They pair well with citrus, cilantro, jalapeños, and tomatoes, and serve as a nutritious protein-based side dish or main component.