Irresistible Rice and Beans: A Comforting Classic Recipe

Rice and beans are a culinary classic that combine comfort, nutrition, and sheer deliciousness into one bowl. Imagine the nutty aroma of simmering rice mingling with the earthy scent of beans, creating an irresistible invitation to the dinner table.

This dish isn’t just food; it’s a nostalgic journey back to family gatherings and cozy nights in. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or enjoying a quiet meal at home, rice and beans serve as the perfect companion for any occasion.

I still remember the first time I made rice and beans for my friends. Their faces lit up when they took their first bite; I felt like a culinary rockstar!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Long-Grain Rice: A fluffy variety works best; I prefer jasmine for its subtle floral aroma.

• Canned Black Beans: Convenient and packed with flavor; rinse them to reduce sodium.

• Onion: Use a medium onion for sweetness that complements the dish beautifully.

• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds depth; crush them for maximum flavor release.

• Vegetable Broth: Choose low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness in the final dish.

• Cumin: This spice brings warmth; it’s essential for that authentic flavor kick.

• Olive Oil: A couple of tablespoons help sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant.

• Fresh Cilantro (optional): Adds a refreshing touch when sprinkled on top before serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Rinse your rice under cold water until it runs clear, ensuring it’s free from excess starch.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, toss in chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic, allowing its fragrance to envelop your kitchen.

Add Rice and Beans: Stir in your rinsed rice followed by drained black beans. Toss everything together so each grain gets coated in those aromatic flavors.

Pour in the Broth: Carefully add vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil. Season with cumin, salt, and pepper before reducing heat to low.

Simmer Away!: Cover the pot tightly and let everything simmer for about 20 minutes. Resist the urge to lift the lid; this traps steam necessary for cooking!

Finishing Touches: Once cooked, fluff rice with a fork and sprinkle fresh cilantro on top if desired. Serve hot alongside your favorite protein or enjoy solo.

Rice and beans are more than just a meal; they’re an experience that fills you up both physically and emotionally. So gather around the table with family or friends—this dish is sure to spark joy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by rinsing the rice and beans to remove excess starch and dirt. Cook the beans first for optimal tenderness, then add the rice with spices and simmer until fluffy.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap black beans for pinto or add in spices like cumin or paprika for extra flavor. Fresh herbs like cilantro elevate the dish beautifully.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to maintain moisture.

It was during a family gathering that I served rice and beans for the first time; everyone went back for seconds, proving simplicity can be deliciously satisfying.

FAQ

Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Yes, canned beans save time but may lack some flavor depth compared to dried ones.

What types of rice work best with rice and beans?

Long-grain white or brown rice works well, providing a nice texture without clumping.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply omit any meat-based broth or seasoning; use vegetable broth for a flavorful base instead.

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Rice and Beans

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Rice and beans are a timeless dish that beautifully melds comfort and nutrition into one satisfying bowl. The nutty aroma of rice combined with the earthy flavor of beans creates a warm invitation for any meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this recipe is easy to make and sure to please everyone at the table. Versatile enough to pair with proteins or enjoyed on its own, it caters to various dietary needs while delivering robust flavors that bring joy to every bite.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Latin American

Ingredients

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• 1 cup long-grain jasmine rice
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh cilantro (optional)

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Instructions

1. Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until it runs clear.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté chopped onions until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Stir in the rinsed rice and drained black beans, coating them in the aromatic mixture.
4. Pour in vegetable broth, season with cumin, salt, and pepper, then bring to a gentle boil.
5. Cover tightly and reduce heat to low; simmer for 20 minutes without lifting the lid.
6. Fluff rice with a fork and sprinkle fresh cilantro on top before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 0mg