black beans and white rice recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best black beans and white rice recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my favorite recipes that’s been passed down through generations – black beans and white rice. This classic dish is a staple in many Latin American households, and for good reason. It’s incredibly easy to make, packed with protein and fiber, and can be customized to suit any taste or occasion. I remember my grandmother making this for family gatherings, and it was always a hit.

She’d serve it alongside roasted meats or as a main course on its own. The combination of the creamy white rice and the hearty black beans is simply divine. As I grew older, I began to appreciate the versatility of this recipe. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and nutritious meal, or for special occasions like holidays or potlucks.

And let’s not forget the health benefits – black beans are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and folate, making them an excellent addition to a balanced diet. My kids love helping me prepare the ingredients, from rinsing the rice to mashing the black beans. One of the things I love most about this recipe is how it can be adapted to suit different tastes. Want it spicy?

Add some diced jalapeños or cumin. Prefer it mild? Stick to the basics. You can even add some chopped veggies like bell peppers or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.

The key to making this recipe shine is in the home cooking technique – specifically, how you cook the black beans. I like to use a combination of sautéing and simmering to bring out their rich flavor. Don’t overcook them, though – you want them to retain that lovely texture and color.

Black Beans and White Rice

4.9 from 1527 votes

A classic dish featuring tender black beans and fluffy white rice. This recipe is a comforting and flavorful meal that is easy to prepare.

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

🥘Ingredients

For the Black Beans

1 lb black beans
1 onion
2 cloves garlic
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp salt
2 cups water

For the White Rice

2 cups long grain rice
4 cups water
1 tsp salt

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse black beans thoroughly under cold water and pick out any debris.
2Place the beans in a large pot and add the onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and water.
3Bring to a boil over high heat.
4Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
5If the beans are not yet tender, add a bit more water and continue cooking.
6The beans should be soft and creamy, with a slight bite.
7While the beans are cooking, rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear.
8This step helps to remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
9In a saucepan, combine the rice, water, and salt.
10Bring to a boil over high heat.
11Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 18 minutes.
12After 18 minutes, remove from heat and let it rest, covered, for an additional 10 minutes.
13The rice should be fluffy and tender, with no remaining liquid.
14Once the black beans are tender, remove from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
15This allows the flavors to meld together.
16Fluff the rice with a fork and serve the black beans over the rice.
17Enjoy your black beans and white rice.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Saucepan with lid
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 2g💛Saturated Fat: 0.5g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 65g🥦Dietary Fiber: 10g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: For added flavor, consider sautéing the onion and garlic in a bit of oil before adding the beans and spices.

Watch Video Of How Black Beans and White Rice Works

This classic recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or just need a quick weeknight dinner solution.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity: just sauté some onions, garlic, and herbs before adding your cooked black beans and fluffy white rice.

The leftovers are just as versatile as the original dish itself – try reheating them with some diced veggies like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Black Beans and White Rice

1. What type of rice is best for this recipe?

For this recipe, I recommend using long-grain white rice. It’s less starchy than other types of rice and will help keep your dish light and fluffy.

2. Can I use canned black beans instead of cooking dried ones?

While canned black beans can be convenient, they’re often high in sodium and may contain added preservatives. If possible, opt for dried black beans instead – they’re just as easy to cook and will yield better flavor.

3. How do I store leftover black beans and white rice?

Avoid storing cooked rice at room temperature – it can become contaminated with bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus. Instead, refrigerate or freeze your leftovers within an hour of cooking.

4. Can I make this recipe vegan by substituting the chicken broth?

Absolutely! Use a vegetable broth or mushroom stock instead for a delicious vegan alternative.

5. What’s the best way to reheat leftover black beans and white rice?

To reheat your leftovers safely, use a low-temperature oven (around 275°F) or microwave in short intervals until warmed through.

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