Smokey Mango Black Beans

 

Black beans have got to be one of the most perfect foods on the planet. Great source of protein, fiber, and phytonutrients -- even the World Health Organization utilizes them as a good "bang for your buck" food when distributing resources to impoverished nations.

They are good for your colon and your blood sugar and your cholesterol and even your cardiovascular system. They are filling and inexpensive and have little to no risk of contamination or spoilage. And if that weren't enough, black beans also have a healthy dose of antioxidants (i.e. they may help prevent cancer).

I mean, my goodness, there are few foods in the universe that can make all those claims AND still taste delicious.

And they are even better with mangoes!

Admittedly, I didn't come the black bean and mango flavor pairing on my own, but I liked the sound of it and wanted something easy to add a little variety to my already delicious and well loved black bean.

Plus mangoes are chock full of Vitamin C (which black beans lack) as well as A and E! What a beautiful and nutritious pairing.

I added some liquid smoke, a touch of agave and some spices (and Sriracha of course) to really give these black beans some kick.

Smokey Mango Black Beans

• 1 can black beans
• 1 large, ripe mango, diced
• 2 tsp agave nectar
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 2 tsp Sriracha sauce (use less to reduce spice)
• 1 tsp liquid smoke

Add black beans and mango to a small sauce pan over low heat and cover. Allow to warm for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, and then add the remainder of the ingredients.

Cook over low heat (again, covered - stirring occasionally) for anywhere from 10-20 minutes to allow flavors to combine! 

So simple and yet so good. Use as a stand-alone side dish, in a burrito or to top a salad (like the one pictured). You could also possibly do this dish or some modification of it in a crock-pot and make a delicious side dish for a BBQ!

They store beautifully and can be eaten for days - if you can keep them around long enough!

Live long and prosper! Black bean style.