Looking for a quick, delicious meal that packs a flavorful punch? Look no further than this Easy Beans and Rice recipe! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. With the rich, earthy flavors of black beans and the comforting texture of fluffy rice, this Mexican-inspired meal is not only simple to make but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re feeding a family or just yourself, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the details and discover how to create this mouthwatering dish!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup white rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Measure 1 cup of white rice and 2 cups of water into a medium saucepan. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer the rice for approximately 18-20 minutes until all water is absorbed and rice is tender.
- While rice is cooking, drain and rinse the canned black beans in a colander under cool running water to remove excess sodium.
- In a separate skillet, warm the drained black beans over medium heat, adding cumin, chili powder, and salt to taste. Stir gently to distribute the spices evenly.
- When rice is fully cooked, fluff with a fork to separate the grains and prevent clumping.
- Combine the spiced black beans with the cooked rice, mixing gently to incorporate the flavors.
- Transfer the beans and rice to serving dishes and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for added brightness and flavor.
- Serve hot and enjoy your quick and easy Mexican-style beans and rice!
Tips
- Perfect Rice: To ensure perfectly cooked rice, avoid lifting the lid while it simmers. This keeps the steam trapped, which is essential for cooking the rice evenly.
- Spice It Up: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking! If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the black beans for an extra kick.
- Add Veggies: Boost the nutritional value of your dish by adding sautéed bell peppers, onions, or corn to the beans. This not only enhances flavor but also adds vibrant colors to your plate.
- Garnish for Flavor: Don’t skip the fresh cilantro! It adds a burst of freshness that complements the dish beautifully. You can also squeeze a bit of lime juice over the top for a zesty finish.
- Make It Ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can cook a larger batch and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just reheat and enjoy whenever you need a quick meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 142kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
