mayocoba beans recipe
The Best mayocoba beans recipe
What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is. A few simple ingredients, a little time on the stove, and you’ve got a dish that’s comforting and satisfying. I usually make a big batch because they reheat perfectly, and I can toss them into tacos, burrito bowls, or even just serve them as a side with some warm tortillas. They’re also great for meal prep since they hold up well in the fridge for a few days. If you’re looking for a no-stress, healthy, and delicious bean recipe, this one’s a winner.

Mayocoba Beans (Peruano Beans) Recipe
A flavorful and creamy Mexican-style dish featuring Mayocoba beans, also known as Peruano beans. These beans are simmered with aromatic spices, garlic, and onion for a comforting and protein-rich meal.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) dried Mayocoba beans (Peruano beans), soaked overnight
- 6 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 small white onion, quartered
- 4 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Diced white onion
- Lime wedges
- Warm corn tortillas or rice
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Drain and rinse the soaked Mayocoba beans under cold water. -
2
In a large pot, combine the beans, water or broth, onion, garlic, bay leaf, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well. -
3
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the beans simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until tender and creamy. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed. -
4
Once the beans are tender, remove the bay leaf and discard it. Adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. -
5
Serve the beans hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, diced onion, and lime wedges. Enjoy with warm tortillas or rice.
🔧Equipment
- Large pot with lid
- Colander
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Mayocoba Beans (Peruano Beans) Recipe Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Mayocoba Beans (Peruano Beans)
1. What are Mayocoba beans, and how do they differ from other beans?
Mayocoba beans, also known as Peruvian beans or canary beans, are a type of large, creamy, and mild-flavored bean with a thin skin and buttery texture. They differ from other beans like pinto or black beans in their size, texture, and subtle flavor. Mayocoba beans hold their shape well when cooked, making them ideal for soups, stews, and refried bean dishes.
2. Can I substitute Mayocoba beans with another type of bean in the recipe?
Yes, you can substitute Mayocoba beans with other similar beans like cannellini, great northern, or navy beans if Mayocoba beans are unavailable. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly. For the closest match, cannellini beans are a good alternative due to their creamy consistency.
3. How long does it take to cook Mayocoba beans from scratch?
Cooking Mayocoba beans from scratch typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours if they are soaked overnight. If you’re using a pressure cooker or Instant Pot, the cooking time reduces to about 25-30 minutes. Unsoaked beans may take longer, around 2 to 2.5 hours on the stovetop.
4. Do I need to soak Mayocoba beans before cooking?
Soaking Mayocoba beans is not strictly necessary, but it helps reduce cooking time and can improve digestibility. If you choose to soak them, cover the beans with water and let them sit overnight (about 8 hours). For a quick soak, boil the beans for 2 minutes, then let them sit off the heat for 1 hour before cooking.
5. What are some popular ways to season Mayocoba beans?
Mayocoba beans have a mild flavor, making them versatile for seasoning. Popular options include garlic, onions, cumin, bay leaves, epazote (a Mexican herb), salt, and pepper. For a richer taste, you can also add bacon, chorizo, or smoked ham hocks while cooking. In Mexican cuisine, they’re often seasoned with cilantro, lime, and chili powder for a zesty kick.
