Spicy Black Bean Dip (Printable Version)

Bold and zesty black bean dip featuring jalapeño, lime, and aromatic spices. Ready in just 10 minutes.

# What You Need:

→ Beans & Vegetables

01 - 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
02 - 1 medium jalapeño, seeded and chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1/4 cup red onion, chopped
05 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves

→ Flavorings & Liquids

06 - 3 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
07 - 2 tbsp olive oil
08 - 1/2 tsp ground cumin
09 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
10 - 1/4 tsp chili powder
11 - 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
12 - 1/4 tsp black pepper

→ Garnish (optional)

13 - Extra chopped cilantro
14 - Crumbled feta or cotija cheese (omit for vegan)
15 - Sliced jalapeños
16 - Lime wedges

# Steps:

01 - Place black beans, jalapeño, garlic, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper into a food processor.
02 - Process until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. For a chunkier texture, pulse instead of blending continuously.
03 - Taste the dip and adjust seasoning with additional lime juice, salt, or jalapeño according to preference.
04 - Move the dip to a serving bowl. Top with extra cilantro, cheese, sliced jalapeños, and lime wedges if desired.
05 - Pair with tortilla chips, fresh vegetable sticks, or use as a spread for wraps and sandwiches.

# Expert Pointers:

01 -
  • It comes together in literally ten minutes with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry
  • The combination of smoky paprika and bright lime makes people ask what's in it every single time
02 -
  • The dip thickens in the fridge after a day, so stir in a splash of water or lime juice before serving leftovers
  • Room temperature beans blend much smoother than cold ones straight from the fridge
03 -
  • Let the dip sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before serving—the flavors really wake up
  • Roast your jalapeño first for a smoky-sweet twist that completely changes the character
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