Easy, Instant Pot Black Beans (No Soak) is the best, quick electric pressure cooker recipe using dried beans to make Mexican, Cuban, or plain beans. This dish is perfect in a small batch or large and includes tips for the perfect water to bean ratio. Cooking beans doesn't get much easier!
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I'm no stranger to making Mexican taco friendly recipes or beans using the Instant Pot! Be sure to check out my Instant Pot Steak Tacos and Instant Pot Baked Beans recipes. These black beans will pair wonderfully as a side dish. You can even stuff them inside your favorite burritos, enchiladas, and more.
Dried Beans Are Healthier Than Canned Beans
Dried beans can be a healthier choice because canned beans are typically loaded with added sodium. Some canned varieties also include chemicals, added sugar, or high fructose corn syrup.
Making your own can be very advantageous. Dried beans are also a lot cheaper than canned beans.
How to Cook Black Beans in the Instant Pot
- Add rinsed beans, water, broth, and seasonings to the pot.
- Seal and pressure cook the beans for 28 minutes.
- Allow the beans to naturally release steam for 20 minutes.
What is The Ratio of Beans to Water?
The water to bean ratio should include enough liquid to cover the beans. You can use water only, instead of a mix of broth if desired. The broth adds flavor.
Using 4 cups of liquid results in moderate liquid in the pot once the beans have cooked. There won't be a ton of liquid, but the pot will also not be dry. I didn't have to drain any excess liquid. If you like a lot of liquid with the beans add another cup or two of water.
How Long to Cook Black Beans
Cooking the beans for 28 minutes results in beans that are soft, but are not mushy. If you like firmer beans lower the cook time to around 20-22 minutes. If you like mushy beans, increase the cook time to 32 minutes or more.
How Many Cups is 1 Pound of Black Beans
One pound of dry beans is 2 cups. One pound of dry beans will produce about 6 cups of cooked beans
Pair these Beans With These Side Dishes
Leftover Taco Meat Bowls
Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice
Air Fryer Taco Egg Rolls
Air Fryer Quesadillas.
Black Beans Freezer Tips
You can freeze the beans for up to 6 months. I like to use sealable bags labeled using a Sharpie.
staysnatched says
The amount noted in the recipe is correct.
Lindsay B. says
How would the cooking time change for double the amount of beans?
staysnatched says
It likely wouldn’t but you wouldn’t need to test it. If they aren’t done, add additional time.
Gwendolyn says
I used one cup of dried beans per the recipe and had way too much liquid. I added an additional 30 minutes to the instant pot and then just drained the beans. After that, they turned out flavorful and a nice texture.
staysnatched says
Interesting. I'm glad you made this to suit your taste.
Julie says
@Gwendolyn, the recipe calls for 1 POUND of dried beans which is slightly over 2 dry cups.
staysnatched says
I keep referring to them because they mean the same thing. You should have used 2 cups as stated in the recipe. That's why they were watery.
Kitty Marie says
@staysnatched, the actual recipe portion of your post states 1 cup, not 2. Just FYI 🙂 thanks for the recipe! I’m trying it out now.
Katye Brzozowski says
These came out PERFECT. Such great flavor and super easy to follow!
staysnatched says
Wonderful! I'm so glad to hear it.
Jan says
I cooked for 30 minutes in my instant pot and let it cool down for 25 before I open the lid and they’re still only halfway done! Disappointed since I’m trying to get my casserole made for tonight!
staysnatched says
Thanks for sharing. Your measurements may have been different. The recipe works for myself and others.
DeErica says
Full of flavor and the right amount of spice. Pairs well with the pollo asado and cilantro lime rice!!
staysnatched says
Such a great pairing!
Naima says
The beans came out perfect!! So tasty.
staysnatched says
I’m glad you enjoyed them!