Big-Batch Tex-Mex Black Beans

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high. Add the onions; cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 6 minutes. Add the garlic and jalapeño; cook, stirring often, until fragrant, 1 minute. 

Stir in the beans, stock, 1 tbsp. salt and 1 1/2 tsp. pepper and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the flavors meld, about 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the lime zest. Let cool completely before storing.

And... Freeze: Portion the beans and liquid into freezer bags labeled by recipe: 1 1/2 cups (salad), 1 cup (stuffed chicken), 1 1/2 cups (burgers), 3 cups (soup), 3 cups (tacos) and 3 cups (steak). Freeze up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or microwave on defrost 5 to 7 minutes.