Authentic Puerto Rican Beans

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (extra virgin, for sautéing)
• 1 cup Ham (cooked, diced; can substitute with kielbasa, smoked sausage, or diced chicken)
• 1 cup Butternut Squash (diced; frozen or fresh; can substitute with diced potatoes)
• 1 can Goya Small Red Beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 can Water (approximately 13 oz; can replace with broth for richer flavor)
• 0.25 cup Tomato Sauce (plain tomato sauce)
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 2 heaping tablespoons Sofrito (store‑bought; can use homemade)
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano (optional, adds earthy flavor)
• 1 packet Sazón Packet (contains coriander, cumin, etc.)
• 2 tablespoons Black Olives (sliced; optional)
• to taste pinch Salt (optional, adjust after tasting)

Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients

   Dice the ham and butternut squash (or potatoes) into ½‑inch cubes, mince the garlic, and set all measured ingredients aside.

   Time: PT10M

2. Heat Oil

   Place the large pot over medium‑high heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Heat until the oil shimmers.

   Time: PT1M

3. Sauté Ham

   Add the diced ham to the pot and sauté for 4‑5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the edges turn lightly brown and release their juices.

   Time: PT5M

4. Build the Flavor Base

   Stir in the sofrito, tomato sauce, minced garlic, oregano, and the Sazón packet. Mix well to create a fragrant paste.

   Time: PT2M

5. Add Beans and Vegetables

   Add the drained red beans, water (or broth), diced butternut squash, and optional olives. Stir to combine.

   Time: PT2M

6. Bring to a Boil

   Increase heat to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce to a steady boil and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce begins to thicken.

   Time: PT10M

7. Simmer Covered

   Turn the burner down to low, cover the pot, and let the beans simmer gently for another 10 minutes.

   Time: PT10M

8. Finish and Serve

   Turn off the heat, let the pot sit for 2 minutes, then give a final stir. Serve hot over white rice or alongside fried pork chops.

   Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

260

Protein

12 g

Carbohydrates

30 g

Fat

8 g

Fiber

6 g