Italian-Inspired Black Bean and Chocolate Chip Stew
What Started it all:
Black Beans, Onion, chocolate chips, instant pot
This unique Italian-inspired stew combines the richness of black beans with the surprising depth of chocolate chips. Prepared effortlessly in an Instant Pot, this dish serves 4 and brings a delightful fusion of flavors to your table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried black beans (or 2 cans of black beans, drained and rinsed)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beans: If using dried black beans, soak them in water overnight, then drain and rinse. If using canned beans, simply drain and rinse them.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Set your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add olive oil and let it heat up. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Beans and Seasonings: Add the black beans (if using dried, ensure they are soaked and drained), dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Add Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring that the beans are fully submerged. Stir everything together.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to high pressure for 25 minutes if using dried beans (or 10 minutes if using canned beans). Allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes before performing a quick release.
- Incorporate Chocolate Chips: Once the pressure has been released and it is safe to open the Instant Pot, stir in the chocolate chips until they are fully melted and incorporated into the stew.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
- Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.
This Italian-Inspired Black Bean and Chocolate Chip Stew offers a delightful and unexpected combination of flavors. The chocolate adds a depth and richness to the savory stew, making it a unique and memorable dish perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!