mexican rice and beans recipe

The Best mexican rice and beans recipe

I’ve been making this Mexican rice and beans recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a staple in our household, and I love how easy it is to prepare. The combination of the savory rice and the flavorful beans is a perfect match.

My kids, especially my son, loves it when I serve it with some grilled chicken or beef on the side. This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, as it’s packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals from the beans and rice. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s very versatile – you can serve it as a main course or use it as a side dish.

It’s also an excellent option for meal prep, as you can cook the rice and beans in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer for later use. Plus, it’s a great way to get your kids to eat more vegetables, as you can add some sautéed onions, garlic, or bell peppers to the mix. I’ve even served this dish at family gatherings and potlucks, and it’s always been a crowd-pleaser.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to customize – just add your favorite spices or herbs to give it a personal touch. I’ve tried different types of beans and spices over the years, but the basic recipe remains the same: cook the rice and beans together with some aromatics like onion and garlic, then season with cumin, chili powder, and a squeeze of lime juice.

The result is a hearty, comforting meal that never fails to hit the spot.

Mexican Rice and Beans

Mexican Rice and Beans

4.8 from 1916 votes

A hearty and flavorful one-pot dish combining fluffy rice with seasoned black beans, tomatoes, and spices. This classic Mexican side or main is easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Rice and Beans

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 cup vegetable broth or water
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
2Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4Stir in the white rice, cumin, chili powder, and salt.
5Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice is lightly toasted and the spices are aromatic.
6Add the diced tomatoes with their juices, the drained black beans, and the vegetable broth.
7Stir everything together to combine.
8Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low.
9Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
10Do not lift the lid during cooking.
11Remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
12Fluff the rice with a fork and gently stir in the chopped cilantro if using.
13Serve hot as a side dish or as a main course with tortillas, avocado, or sour cream.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet or pot with lid
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Can opener
Knife and cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 6g💛Saturated Fat: 1g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 62g🥦Dietary Fiber: 10g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 12g

📝Notes

For a spicier version, add a minced jalapeno with the onion. You can also use brown rice, but increase the cooking time to 40 to 45 minutes and add an extra 1/2 cup of broth.

Watch Video Of How Mexican Rice and Beans Works

This Mexican rice and beans recipe is one of my go-to dishes for any occasion – whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special family gathering.

It’s incredibly easy to make ahead of time and reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave.

Plus, it’s packed with nutrients from the beans and rice – making it a great option for meal prep or special diets like vegan or gluten-free.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Mexican Rice and Beans

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

A: You can use any type of rice you prefer – white or brown – but I find that long-grain rice works best in this recipe. It holds its shape well after cooking and doesn’t become mushy like short-grain rice can.

Q: Can I use canned beans instead of cooking dried beans?

A: Yes, you can definitely use canned beans if you’re short on time or prefer not to cook dried beans from scratch.

Q: How do I store leftover Mexican rice and beans?

A: You can store leftover cooked Mexican rice and beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

A: Yes, you can cook the rice and beans ahead of time and store them separately until ready to serve.

Q: What if I don’t have cumin or chili powder?

A: You can omit these spices if you don’t have them on hand – just use more lime juice or add some other herbs like oregano or thyme to give it some extra flavor.

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