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Homemade The Best Black Beans and Rice Recipe photo

The Best Black Beans and Rice Recipe

This Black Beans and Rice is a flavor-packed comfort dish! Enjoy the earthiness of beans and spices with a fresh lime twist.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dish:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 ½ cups long-grained rice may substitute brown rice for rice cooker version
  • ½ cup chopped red onion
  • 1-2 jalapeños chopped, seeded, and deveined (optional)
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 14.5 oz can black beans rinsed and drained (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons mild diced green chilies from a 4 oz can
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth may substitute vegetable broth
  • Freshly cracked salt and pepper to taste
  • 1-2 tablespoons butter optional
  • ½ cup cilantro loosely packed, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Chopping board
  • Knife
  • Serving bowl

Method
 

Method:
  1. In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. If you're using jalapeños, add them to the pan and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and ground cumin, cooking for another minute until fragrant. This step is key as it builds the aromatic base for your dish.
  3. Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan, stirring to coat it with the oil and spices. Next, pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and give everything a good mix. If you're using black beans, add them now.
  4. Stir in the mild diced green chilies. These will add a lovely burst of flavor without overpowering the dish.
  5. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
  6. Once the rice is cooked, remove the saucepan from heat. If desired, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of butter for a richer flavor. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with freshly cracked salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Finally, stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice for a fresh finish. Serve hot, and enjoy your homemade black beans and rice!

Notes

  • For a vegan version, replace butter with a vegan alternative and use vegetable broth.
  • Experiment with different toppings like avocado or sour cream.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.