Black Beans & Rice
Black Beans & Rice are the absolute best side dish recipes around! It’s a classic combination, hearty and rich in flavor. This pantry staple meal goes a long way in the kitchen.
An authentic family favorite recipe that has been passed down from my abuelita! I am so excited to share this easy and delicious recipe with you!
I grew up eating rice and beans! My mom, a first-generation Mexican woman, always made us rice and beans. In fact… we would always complain as kids. Little did we know that rice, beans, and corn tortillas were served when my parents were financially struggling! It’s a nostalgic meal, yes, a meal for me that I have grown to love and now serve my kids all the time absolutely.
In this recipe, we use canned black beans as a shortcut in cooking time. It comes together quickly, and truly, it’s so delicious!! However, I love mine on its own, topped with some Pico de Gallo, a little cheese, and a dollop of sour cream; it’s so yummy!!💥
Black Beans and Rice
From the vibrant kitchens of Latin America to the soulful dishes of the Caribbean, black beans and rice have become culinary staples. Their versatility and ability to adapt to various cuisines make them a staple for many cultures. They are not only versatile but also extremely budget-friendly!
The Nutritional Powerhouse
Beyond their delicious taste, black beans and rice offer a nutritional powerhouse, making them a staple in many diets. Thus, I aim to serve the family food that nourishes and tastes good!
- Protein-Packed Goodness: Black beans and rice form a complete protein source, making them an excellent option for vegetarians and those looking to incorporate plant-based proteins into their meals.
- Fiber-Rich Fuel: Both black beans and brown rice are rich in dietary fiber, which promotes a healthy digestive system and provides a sense of fullness that can aid in weight management!
- Vitamins and Minerals: Combining beans and rice introduces essential nutrients like iron, folate, and magnesium, contributing to overall well-being.
Cooking Rice to Perfection:
While the show’s star is undoubtedly the marriage of black beans and rice, achieving perfectly cooked rice is an art. My husband, who grew up eating rice every night, is a rice snob!! I’ve learned to master the perfect cooked rice. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook rice flawlessly:
- Selecting the Right Rice: Choose the rice that suits your preference and the dish you’re preparing. Long-grain rice stays separate and fluffy, while short-grain rice becomes more sticky, perfect for certain dishes like sushi. For this recipe, go with long-grain rice.
- Rinse for better texture: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming too sticky or turning to mush during cooking.
- The Perfect Ratio: Measure your rice and water carefully. A standard ratio is 1 part rice to 2 parts water, but this may vary depending on the type of rice and your desired outcome.
- Bring to a Boil: Place the rinsed rice and water in a pot. Bring i t to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer.
- Patience is a Virtue (except when you have 4 kids 😆💁🏻♀️):. Allow the rice to simmer undisturbed for the specified cooking time. Avoid lifting the lid, as this could disrupt the cooking process.
- Fluff and Rest: Once the rice is cooked, fluff and separate the grains using a fork. Cover and let it rest for a few minutes to allow any remaining steam to finish the cooking process.
What you will need:
- chicken broth or stock
- olive oil
- onion
- garlic
- white long-grain rice
- cumin
- chili powder
- salt
- canned black beans
- lime
- fresh cilantro
- jalapeno
How to make black beans and rice:
- In a stockpot or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and saute for 3 minutes or until the onions are translucent. Add garlic and saute for 1 more minute. Add the rice and further saute for 2 more minutes.
- Add in cumin, chili powder, salt, Pour over the chicken broth and mix till combined. Place the jalapeño seed side down in the middle. Cover pot and turn down to low. Simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is tender.
- Add the beans, cilantro, and lime juice. Stir until combined, cover the pot, and let sit for 3-5 minutes until the beans are warm. Taste and add more salt if desired. Enjoy!
In the world of wholesome meals, black beans and rice are a true testament to simplicity’s power. As you embark on your culinary journey with this iconic duo, remember the art of cooking rice – the perfect canvas for black beans’ rich, earthy flavors. Black beans and rice are a recipe staple that will always delight your taste buds and nourish your body. Bon appétit! 🍚✨
If you love healthy and delicious dishes like Black Beans and Rice, also try:
- Spinach Pesto Pasta Salad
- Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Bowls
- Perfect Mashed Potatoes
- Oven Roasted Tomatoes & Burrata with Hot Honey
- Mexican Orange Chipotle Chicken
Get the Recipe:
Black Rice and Beans
Ingredients
- 3 cups chicken broth or stock
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup diced yellow onion
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 ½ cups white rice long-grain
- 1 ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ jalapeño
- 2 15 ounce cans black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 limes, juice of
- ¼ cup cilantro leaves, diced
Instructions
- In a stockpot or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and saute for 3 minutes or until translucent. Add garlic and saute for 1 more minute. Add the rice and saute for 2 more minutes.
- Add in cumin, chili powder, and salt; pour over the chicken broth and mix till combined. Place the jalapeño seed side down in the middle.
- Cover the pot and turn it down to low. Simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is tender.
- Add the beans, cilantro, and lime juice. Stir until combined, cover the pot, and let sit for 3-5 minutes until the beans are warm.
- Taste and add more salt if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
- Make sure to drain and rinse your black beans before you add them to the rice.
- Fresh lime juice is necessary for this recipe, as is fresh cilantro.
- Use a long grain white rice or dish can come out sticky and mushy.