red rice and beans recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best red rice and beans recipe

I’ve been making this red rice and beans recipe for years, and it’s still a staple in our household. My family loves it because it’s hearty, flavorful, and filling. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make, even on busy weeknights.

I like to think of it as a comfort food that never fails to put a smile on our faces. The dish originated from Latin American cuisine, where it’s a common staple in many countries. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that consists of red kidney beans cooked with onions, garlic, and rice.

The result is a rich, earthy flavor that’s hard to resist. One of the key techniques in making this recipe is browning the onions and garlic before adding the beans and rice. This step adds depth to the dish and prevents it from tasting too bland or starchy.

I like to use short-grain rice, which holds its shape well even after cooking. You can also customize this recipe by adding your favorite spices or herbs to give it an extra boost of flavor. Overall, this recipe is a winner in my book because of its simplicity, versatility, and delicious taste.

It’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or just a quick dinner at home.

Red Rice and Beans

4.7 from 1085 votes

A hearty and flavorful dish featuring red beans and rice. This recipe is perfect for a comforting meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Rice

2 cups long grain rice
4 cups water
1 tsp salt

For the Beans

2 cups red beans
4 cups water
1 onion
2 cloves garlic
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse the red beans and place them in a medium pot.
2Cover with 4 cups of water.
3Bring to a boil over high heat.
4Once boiling, reduce heat to medium and let the beans simmer for 10 minutes.
5Then, remove from heat and let the beans sit for 15 minutes.
6Drain the beans and set aside.
7In a large pot, combine the rice and 4 cups of water.
8Bring to a boil over high heat.
9Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and let the rice simmer for 20 minutes.
10The rice should be tender and the water absorbed.
11Fluff with a fork and set aside.
12While the rice is cooking, in the same medium pot, add the drained beans, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
13Cover with 2 cups of water.
14Bring to a boil over high heat.
15Once boiling, reduce heat to medium and let the beans simmer for 15 minutes.
Stir occasionally.
16The beans should be tender and the liquid reduced.
17Mash a few beans with the back of a spoon to thicken the mixture.
18Once the rice and beans are cooked, combine them in a large pot.
Mix well.
19If the mixture is too dry, add a little water.
20If too wet, cook over medium heat until the desired consistency is reached.
Serve hot.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Medium pot
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can adjust the spices to your taste. For a smokier flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika.

Watch Video Of How Red Rice and Beans Works

This red rice and beans recipe is always a good idea for any occasion. It’s a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side dish, and it’s perfect for family gatherings. I love that it’s easy to make and requires minimal effort.

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight, then heat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. I often serve this dish with some cornbread or a side salad, and it makes for a complete and satisfying meal.

It’s a dish that my family loves and always asks for. I love that this recipe is a crowd pleaser and always a hit. It’s a great way to use up leftover vegetables and beans, and it’s a dish that everyone in the family will enjoy.

I often make a big batch and freeze it in individual portions for easy weeknight meals. It’s a dish that’s perfect for a busy family. Plus, it’s a dish that’s full of flavor and nutrition, making it a great choice for any occasion.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Red Rice and Beans

Q: What type of rice should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, you can use any type of short-grain rice that holds its shape well after cooking.

Q: Can I use canned beans instead of cooking them from scratch?

Yes, you can use canned beans as a substitute if you’re short on time.

Q: How do I prevent the beans from becoming mushy during cooking?

To prevent the beans from becoming mushy, make sure to cook them with enough liquid and avoid overcooking them.

Q: Can I add other ingredients to customize the flavor?

You can add your favorite spices or herbs to give the dish an extra boost of flavor.

Q: How long does this recipe take to prepare?

This recipe is quick and easy to prepare – you can have it ready in under 30 minutes.

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