While this Cuban inspired recipe borrows traditional elements it isn’t intended as an authentic interpretation. For this Instant Pot black bean and rice recipe, I took the classic herbs oregano, dried cumin, and bay leaves but added other ingredients I keep in the pantry to make this an easy weeknight staple.

Instant Pot Cuban Inspired Black Beans and Rice Recipe

Cuban Inspired Black Beans and Rice Ingredients:

1 c. dried black beans, rinsed and picked over
1 medium red pepper, seeded and cut into large pieces
½ medium white onion, cut into large pieces
½ T. dried oregano
½ T. dried cumin
1 t. garlic powder
Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
2 whole bay leaves
1½ c. chicken or vegetable broth
1 T. red wine vinegar
2 T. red pepper, diced
3 T. avocado, diced
2 T. fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
1 whole lime, cut into wedges (optional)
3 c. cooked white or yellow rice

You’ll find these kitchen tools useful (I've included affiliate links to the products I use at home):

Obviously an Instant Pot, the instructions are for the IP-Duo series, other models may offer different features or buttons.
Food processor – I love my Kitchenaid Food Processor, it is great for small or large tasks and simple to use.

Cuban Inspired Black Beans and Rice Directions:

Add the beans, red pepper, onion, oregano, dried cumin, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and bay leaves to Instant Pot.
Pour broth on top and add the lid. Set the pressure valve to “sealing” and select the “Manual” cooking option on the “High” setting. Set cook time to 32 minutes.
When done cooking, allow the pressure to release naturally for 20 minutes, and then do a quick release of any remaining pressure.
Turn the unit off and carefully remove the lid. Transfer red pepper, onion, and ½ cup broth to a blender or food processor. Cover and blend until smooth.
Pour pureed vegetable mixture back into the Instant Pot and add red wine vinegar. Season with additional salt and black pepper, as desired, and stir to combine. Serve immediately over a bed of cooked rice, topped with chopped red pepper, avocado, and cilantro. Offer lime wedges, if desired. Enjoy!

This Instant Pot Cuban-Style Black Beans and Rice recipe was tested at 30 minutes of active cook time. Although the recipe works at that time, the beans were a little firm. Add an additional two minutes to the active cook time for less firm results. For a thicker sauce, I like to stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste when blending the sauce.

I love how this recipe is simple and can be made from simple pantry supplies. We hope you enjoy these Cuban Inspired Black Beans and Rice as much as we do!