We’ve always been drawn to the bold, comforting flavors of Cuban cuisine, and our Cuban Garbanzo Beans Recipe captures that essence perfectly. Originating from the heart of Havana this hearty stew features tender chickpeas simmered with garlic onions and a mix of spices that evoke sunny island vibes.
It’s an easy versatile dish that’s naturally vegan and packed with protein making it ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings. We love how it brings authentic tastes to your table without fuss so let’s explore why it’ll become your go-to favorite.
Ingredients
In our Cuban Garbanzo Beans Recipe, we select fresh, high-quality ingredients that capture the bold, authentic flavors of Havana’s traditional stew. Below, we’ve listed them in the order they’re typically used during preparation, with specific prep notes for ease and accuracy.
- 2 cups dried garbanzo beans (soak overnight in water to cover, then drain and rinse; or use 4 cans, 15 ounces each, drained and rinsed for quicker prep)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped (this forms the base of the stew’s aromatic foundation)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (adds a pungent, irresistible depth to the dish)
- 1 green bell pepper, diced (provides a crisp, vibrant contrast to the beans)
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped (contribute juicy acidity and natural sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (use extra-virgin for the richest flavor when sautéing aromatics)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin (a key spice that infuses earthy warmth, essential for Cuban authenticity)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (enhances the herbal notes, evoking traditional island herbs)
- 2 bay leaves (whole, for subtle flavor infusion during simmering)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium preferred, to control seasoning and maintain the vegan profile)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste (season gradually for balanced, hearty taste)
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar (or lime juice, added at the end for a bright, tangy finish)
Instructions
We guide you through preparing our authentic Cuban Garbanzo Beans with simple, step-by-step instructions that highlight the vibrant flavors of Havana’s traditional stew, ensuring a hearty and satisfying meal every time.
Prep
Before we dive into cooking, let’s prepare our ingredients to capture the fresh, bold essence of Cuban cuisine. Start by rinsing 1 pound of dried garbanzo beans under cold water and soaking them overnight in a large bowl with enough water to cover them by 2 inches—this step ensures they become tender and absorb flavors deeply. If using canned garbanzo beans for quicker prep, drain and rinse two 15-ounce cans to remove excess sodium.
Next, finely chop 1 large onion, 1 green bell pepper, and 4 garlic cloves—these form the aromatic base that infuses the dish with its signature zest. Dice 2 medium tomatoes and measure out your spices: 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and 2 bay leaves. Gather 4 cups vegetable broth, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and 1 tablespoon white vinegar for that tangy finish. This preparation sets the stage for a symphony of flavors, with the earthy scent of cumin promising a comforting, authentic taste.
Cook
Now that our ingredients are ready, we move to cooking, where the magic happens as the spices blend and the garbanzo beans simmer to perfection. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, then add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and garlic, sautéing for about 5 minutes until they soften and release a fragrant aroma that fills the kitchen with hints of sweet and savory notes.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and 2 bay leaves, cooking for another 2 minutes to let the spices bloom and deepen the flavor profile. Add the soaked and drained garbanzo beans along with 4 cups vegetable broth, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and the stew thickens into a rich, velvety texture that evokes the warmth of Cuban streets.
Assemble
With the cooking complete, we assemble our dish to enhance its presentation and flavors, making it ready for serving. Remove the 2 bay leaves from the pot and stir in 1 tablespoon white vinegar for a bright, tangy lift that balances the earthiness of the beans.
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein (g) | 15 |
| Carbohydrates (g) | 35 |
| Fat (g) | 8 |
Conclusion
We’ve explored this Cuban garbanzo beans recipe and can’t wait for you to dive in. It’s a straightforward way to add authentic zest to your meals while keeping things wholesome and delicious.
We know you’ll enjoy the hearty comfort it brings to your table. Make it yours and savor the flavors that keep us coming back for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cuban Garbanzo Beans?
Cuban Garbanzo Beans is a hearty, traditional stew from Havana, featuring tender chickpeas simmered with garlic, onions, spices, and veggies. It’s a bold, comforting dish that’s naturally vegan, packed with protein, and perfect for easy weeknight meals or gatherings.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, the Cuban Garbanzo Beans recipe is completely vegan, using only plant-based ingredients like chickpeas, vegetables, olive oil, and spices. It delivers authentic Cuban flavors without any animal products, making it a great option for plant-based diets.
What ingredients are needed for Cuban Garbanzo Beans?
Key ingredients include dried or canned garbanzo beans, onion, garlic, green bell pepper, tomatoes, olive oil, ground cumin, dried oregano, bay leaves, vegetable broth, salt, black pepper, and a splash of white vinegar or lime juice. Use fresh, high-quality items for the best authentic taste.
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
Preparation takes about 10-15 minutes, with cooking time around 45-60 minutes if using dried beans (or quicker with canned ones). Soak dried beans overnight for tenderness, then sauté veggies, simmer everything together, and enjoy a flavorful stew in under an hour total.
Can I substitute ingredients in the recipe?
Yes, you can swap dried beans for canned to save time, or use red bell pepper instead of green for a twist. Substitute vegetable broth with water if needed, but keep cumin and oregano for authentic Cuban flavor. Always adjust seasonings to taste for the best results.
What are the nutritional benefits of Cuban Garbanzo Beans?
Each serving has about 250 calories, 15g protein, 35g carbs, and 8g fat, making it a nutritious, protein-rich meal. It’s high in fiber from chickpeas and veggies, supporting heart health and providing essential vitamins, ideal for a balanced, vegan-friendly diet.