Instant Pot Black Beans

Instant Pot Black Beans is the best method to get an authentic side dish on the table fast- no soaking needed! Simply mix dried beans and broth along with some seasonings together in an electric pressure cooker. Rather than hours of prep and cooking, turn to this recipe for simple black beans in under an hour.

Quick & Easy Instant Pot Black Beans

These Instant Pot Black Beans have so much more flavor than simply using the canned kind.

They are also healthier for you when made at home because you can control the amount of sodium.

It can take SO long to make beans on the stovetop, plus a lot of forethought because you have to soak the beans and then cook them until tender.

But once again, the Instant Pot is the answer! This no-soak method cooks the beans in almost half of the time. Who knew you could cook black beans, kidney beans, red beans, and pinto beans in a fraction of the time?

You can then serve them as is with a bit of extra salt and pepper OR transform them into these Instant Pot Refried Black Beans OR use them in your favorite recipes! My favorites are Black Bean & Sweet Potato Tacos and Sweet Potato & Black Bean Enchiladas.

The recipe possibilities are endless!

Ingredients

The simple ingredients you need to make this Instant Pot black bean recipe include:

• Broth. You can use vegetable or chicken, but avoid beef as it has too much flavor. If you use reduced sodium, you can adjust the amount of salt you add later. If needed, sub with water if you don’t have broth available. The cooking liquid is part broth and part water.
• Black beans. Dried black beans are incredibly affordable and easy to find at the grocery store. Be sure to sort out the broken ones.

How to Cook Black Beans in the Instant Pot?

Below you’ll fine the basic steps for making this Instant Pot black beans recipe:

Sort the Beans

When you buy dry black beans, especially in bulk, you absolutely need to sift through them before cooking.

The best way to do this is using a colander and running cold water. Remove any broken pieces, rocks, or twigs you find.

Combine the Ingredients

Add the sorted beans, water, chicken or vegetable broth, and salt to the Instant Pot.

For best results, use a 6-quart pot. Give everything a quick stir, then place the lid on.

Cook in the Instant Pot

Make sure the pressure valve is in the sealing position.

Using the manual function, set the Instant Pot to high pressure, then set the timer to 30 minutes.

It will probably take around 10 minutes for it to come to full pressure before the timer starts.

Release the Pressure

After the 30 minute timer is up, allow a 20-minute natural release. This extra time is essential to allow them to finish cooking and become tender.

Then, release the valve for the remaining pressure and open the lid.

These flavorful beans are delicious as a side dish as is, or in your favorite recipes with black beans.

Serve up cooked beans with Instant Pot White Rice or Cilantro Lime Rice and some queso fresco and fresh cilantro. Or, get creative with your own favorite toppings.

Meal Prep and Storage

• How to prep ahead of time: This recipe is perfect to completely make ahead of time. Just be sure to keep beans in the fridge until you’re ready to use.
• How to store: Place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 to 5 days.
• How to freeze: Seal black beans in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag and keep for up to 3 months.
• How to reheat: You can warm these back up in a skillet on the stovetop over medium-low heat or use the microwave.

Do you need to soak beans to cook in the Instant Pot?

You do not need to soak dry beans before cooking them in the Instant Pot or other pressure cooker. The added liquid and the cooking process softens the beans enough.

How many cups of beans are in 1 pound?

A pound of dried black beans equals about 2 cups of dried beans and about 6 cups of cooked black beans.

Are black beans healthy?

Black beans are considered a very healthy food. They are high in fiber and plant-based protein, which is highly digestible. They are also a great source of calcium and several B vitamins.

Are black beans keto?

Unfortunately, black beans are not considered a keto-friendly food. While healthy, they do not meet the low-carb, high fat requirements needed.

Are black beans gluten-free?

Yes! Black beans are naturally gluten-free. They are also a great source of fiber and protein, so you can feel good about enjoying them.

Expert Tips and Tricks

• Sort it out. Be sure to check the beans under running water before using to remove broken pieces and debris.
• Skip a step. There’s no need to pre-soak these beans before cooking.
• Add flavor. Opt for vegetable or chicken broth for the most delicious beans.
• Double up. Make a big batch and save some for later.
• Get creative. You can easily add in other flavors. Try ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, or a bay leaf.

How to Use Cooked Black Beans?

Black beans are a fantastic way to get some extra protein in your meal. Try one of these healthy and easy recipes next.

Black Bean and Corn Salsa and Texas Caviar are DELICIOUS with some Homemade Tortilla Chips.

You can also opt for Mexican Quinoa Salad or these Mexican Stuffed Sweet Potatoes in your dinner.

More Black Bean Recipes

If you’re looking for other black bean recipes, put these on your menu soon!

Refried Black Beans or Instant Pot Refried Black Beans are perfect in your favorite Mexican dishes.

Or, make these Sweet Potato Black Bean Burgers or Sweet Potato Black Bean Enchiladas for a real treat.