Description
Black Beans & Rice
Passed down from my abuelita, this Black Beans & Rice recipe is not just a dish; it’s a cherished memory. From the vibrant kitchens of Latin America to my own kitchen today, this hearty, rich dish has stood the test of time. Perfect for serving on a budget and filled with nostalgic flavor, Black Beans & Rice is a simple yet comforting side dish that nourishes both body and soul.
3 cups chicken broth
1 tbsp olive oil
½ cup yellow onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
1 ½ tsp cumin
½ tsp chili powder
½ tsp salt
½ jalapeño
2 (15 oz) cans black beans, drained & rinsed
Juice of 2 limes
¼ cup cilantro, diced
Directions:
1. Sauté onion & garlic in olive oil, then add rice.
2. Mix in spices & broth, simmer until rice is tender.
3. Add beans, lime juice, and cilantro. Warm & enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Kcal: 220 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add the long-grain white rice to the pot. Stir constantly for 2 minutes to lightly toast the grains, which adds depth of flavor and helps prevent mushiness.
3. Pour in the chicken broth. Add the cumin, chili powder, salt, and the whole half jalapeño (this infuses flavor without overwhelming heat). Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot tightly with a lid and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. Do not lift the lid during this time.
5. Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from heat. Discard the jalapeño half. Gently fold in the drained and rinsed black beans, the juice of two limes, and the diced cilantro.
6. Cover the pot again and let it sit off the heat for 5 minutes to allow the beans to warm through and the flavors to meld. Fluff with a fork before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish can be the star or a perfect side. Serve it as a hearty main with sliced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, and warm tortillas. For a complete protein-packed meal, top with a fried egg or grilled chicken. It also makes an excellent filling for burritos or a base for grain bowls topped with roasted vegetables and salsa.
How-to Summary
Sauté onion and garlic, then toast the rice. Add broth and spices (including a whole jalapeño half), then cover and simmer until the rice is cooked. Off the heat, fold in black beans, fresh lime juice, and cilantro. Let rest, then fluff and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried beans instead of canned? Yes, but it requires planning. Use 1 cup of dried black beans. Soak overnight, then simmer until tender (about 1-1.5 hours) before starting the rice recipe.
How can I make this dish vegetarian? Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth. The dish will still be rich and flavorful.
Why is my rice mushy or sticky? This usually means too much liquid or the heat was too high, causing rapid boiling. Ensure you use the correct broth-to-rice ratio and maintain a gentle, low simmer with the lid on.
How should I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a microwave with a splash of water or in a covered pot on the stove, stirring occasionally.
Can I freeze this dish? Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as above, adding a little broth or water to refresh the texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not rinsing the canned beans, which can leave a starchy, salty liquid.
- Lifting the lid while the rice is simmering, which releases essential steam and can lead to uneven cooking.
- Stirring the rice after adding the broth, which can break the grains and make the final dish gummy.
- Overcooking the garlic at the beginning, which can make it taste bitter. Add it just before the rice.
- Skipping the step of toasting the rice, which adds a crucial nutty flavor to the final dish.
Conclusion
This Black Beans & Rice recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create something deeply satisfying. By following these steps and tips, you can honor the tradition it comes from while making it a reliable staple in your own kitchen. It’s affordable, nourishing, and endlessly adaptable—a true celebration of comfort food at its best.