Imagine a dish that combines the hearty richness of black beans with perfectly cooked rice, creating a symphony of flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Mexico. This RBC Black Beans Rice isn't just a recipe – it's a culinary journey that promises to become your new go-to comfort meal. Packed with protein, bursting with aromatic spices, and incredibly easy to prepare, this dish is about to revolutionize your weeknight cooking routine!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup black beans
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the black beans thoroughly under cold running water, removing any debris or damaged beans.
- If using dried beans, soak them overnight in water. If using canned beans, drain and rinse well.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Stir in cumin, salt, and pepper, allowing the spices to bloom and release their aromatic flavors.
- Add the black beans and rice to the pot, stirring to combine with the onion and spice mixture.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring all ingredients are well combined and submerged in liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.
- Simmer the rice and beans for approximately 35-45 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let the dish rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to meld and rice to fully absorb remaining moisture.
- Fluff the rice with a fork, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.
Tips
- Bean Preparation is Key: If using dried beans, always soak them overnight to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility. For a quicker option, canned beans work perfectly too!
- Spice Blooming Technique: Take extra time to sauté your spices with onions and garlic. This helps release their full flavor potential and creates a more complex taste profile.
- Liquid Ratio Matters: Ensure you have enough vegetable broth to fully cook the rice and beans. The right liquid-to-grain ratio is crucial for achieving that perfect, fluffy texture.
- Low and Slow Cooking: Resist the temptation to rush the cooking process. Simmering on low heat allows the flavors to meld and the rice to cook evenly.
- Resting Time is Crucial: Don't skip the 5-10 minute resting period after cooking. This allows the rice to absorb any remaining moisture and helps the dish set up perfectly.
- Customize Your Flavor: Feel free to add extra herbs like cilantro, or top with a squeeze of lime for a bright, fresh finish. This recipe loves personalization!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 523kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
