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Black Beans and Rice Recipe

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3.9 from 14 reviews

A flavorful and comforting dish of black beans and jasmine rice, perfectly seasoned with cumin, paprika, and fresh cilantro. This simple one-pot recipe is quick to make, using vegetable broth to infuse rich flavor into the rice, making it a wholesome, delicious side or main dish.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup jasmine rice, uncooked
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken stock)
  • 1 (15.5 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice, freshly squeezed
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat the oil: Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a medium pot over medium-high heat for about 1 minute to prepare the cooking base.
  2. Sauté onion and garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and softened for approximately 1 minute, which enhances the flavor.
  3. Add rice and spices: Incorporate 1 cup of jasmine rice along with ½ teaspoon paprika and ½ teaspoon ground cumin. Mix well to evenly coat the rice with spices and toast it for 1 minute, bringing out the nutty flavor.
  4. Add broth and beans: Slowly pour in 2 cups of vegetable broth and add the drained and rinsed can of black beans. Stir thoroughly and bring the mixture to a boil to begin the cooking process.
  5. Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid and cook evenly.
  6. Rest the rice: Remove the pot from heat and keep it covered for 5 minutes. This resting period lets the rice finish cooking through steam for perfect texture.
  7. Final touches: Fluff the rice and bean mixture with a fork. Season with ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper (optional), 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice, and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro to add brightness and freshness.
  8. Serve: Serve the black beans and rice immediately as a wholesome main dish or side.

Notes

  • Use jasmine rice for its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture, but you can substitute with long-grain white rice if unavailable.
  • Vegetable broth keeps the dish vegetarian; chicken stock can be used for a non-vegetarian option.
  • Adjust spices to taste; add more cumin or paprika for a stronger smoky flavor.
  • For added protein and texture, consider topping with a fried egg or avocado slices.
  • Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.