Black Beans and Rice is a simple, nutritious, and hearty dish often found in Latin American cuisine. It’s a versatile recipe that can be served as a main course or as a side dish. This dish is not only flavorful but also budget-friendly and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika if available)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 red bell pepper, diced
- Optional: Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Optional: Lime wedges for serving
Directions
- In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rice and a pinch of salt. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
- While the rice is cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion (and bell pepper if using) and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the black beans, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the beans are heated through. If the mixture seems dry, add a small amount of water or vegetable broth.
- Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and serve it on plates or in a large serving dish.
- Spoon the black bean mixture over the rice.
- Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges if desired.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 350-400
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Protein: 15g
Prep and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings
- Serves: 4
Black Beans and Rice is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any meal. It’s packed with protein and fiber, making it both filling and nutritious. This dish can be easily customized with additional spices, vegetables, or toppings like avocado and cheese to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy this classic comfort food that’s both simple and delicious!
