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steaming bowl of habichuelas con dulce sweet beans

Dominican Habichuelas con Dulce (Sweet Beans)

A creamy and comforting Dominican dessert made with red beans, coconut milk, sweet potatoes, and warm spices. Slightly sweet, smooth, and fragrant, it’s perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or cozy nights at home. A true taste of Dominican tradition in every spoonful.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Dominican
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups red kidney beans
  • 6 cups water
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup sweet potato peeled and diced
Optional: raisins or nutmeg for garnish

Method
 

  1. Soak the beans: Cover beans with water and soak overnight. Drain before cooking.
  2. Cook the beans: Add beans to a pot with fresh water. Cook over medium heat until soft (about 1–1.5 hours).
  3. Mash some beans: Remove a cup or two of cooked beans and mash to help thicken the dessert.
  4. Add milk and sugar: Stir in evaporated milk, coconut milk, and brown sugar.
  5. Add spices: Mix in cinnamon, cloves, and a pinch of salt.
  6. Add sweet potatoes: Stir in diced sweet potatoes and simmer until tender.
  7. Finish with vanilla: Remove from heat and add vanilla extract. Optionally, sprinkle raisins or nutmeg.
  8. Serve: Enjoy warm or chilled.

Notes

  • The dessert tastes even better the next day as flavors meld.
  • Adjust sugar to your preference if you like it sweeter or less sweet.
  • You can substitute sweet potato with pumpkin or Dulce de Batata Dominicano.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently before serving.