Instant Pot Spicy Black Beans

This recipe is built around dried black beans cooked with a simple mix of spices and just enough liquid to bring everything together in the Instant Pot. The flavour comes from chilli, cumin, and garlic, with a small amount of heat from cayenne and jalapeño. It’s a straightforward way to cook beans that are useful on their own or as part of a larger meal.

Why this recipe works

  • Uses dried beans for better texture and value
  • Simple spice base gives solid flavour without effort
  • Hands‑off once cooking starts
  • Works across multiple meals

Instant Pot Spicy Black Beans

Soft, lightly spiced black beans with enough liquid to keep them versatile for everyday use.
Soft, lightly spiced black beans with enough liquid to keep them versatile for everyday use.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 5

Ingredients

  • 250 g dried black beans
  • 1 small jalapeño chopped
  • tsp chilli powder
  • tsp garlic powder
  • tsp ground cumin
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 300 ml vegetable broth
  • 300 ml water
  • Juice of ½ lime optional
  • Fresh coriander optional

Instructions

  • Rinse the black beans thoroughly using a fine mesh strainer.
  • Add the beans and all remaining ingredients (except lime juice and coriander) to the Instant Pot.
  • Seal the lid and cook on High Pressure for 30 minutes.
  • Allow a natural pressure release for 20 minutes, then open the lid.
  • Stir the beans – there should be some cooking liquid remaining. Drain slightly if needed.
  • Stir through lime juice and coriander if using, then serve.

Variations & substitutions

  • Skip jalapeño for a milder version
  • Increase cayenne for more heat (or add a scotch bonnet to kick it up a further notch!)
  • Use stock only for a richer flavour

Storage & leftovers

Keeps for up to 5 days in the fridge and freezes well. The texture holds up well after reheating. This is a great recipe for batch cooking.

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