Rice and Black Beans

Rice and Black Beans
This hearty and flavorful Rice & Black Beans dish is a comforting classic rooted in Latin and Caribbean culinary traditions. It's a simple, wholesome combination of sautéed onions, peppers, garlic, and tomatoes simmered with rice and seasoned with salt, oregano, and a dash of Tabasco. Black beans add rich texture and protein, making it a satisfying main course or a hearty side. With its budget-friendly ingredients and one-pot ease, it’s a favorite for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or casual gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Fusion, Latin AMerican
Servings 6
Calories 245 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 onion (large, chopped, about 1 cup)
  • 1 green pepper (medium, diced, ¾ cup)
  • 1 red pepper (medium, diced, ¾ cup)
  • 1 clove garlic (minced)
  • 1 tomato (medium, chopped, ½ cup)
  • tsp salt
  • ½ tsp oregano
  • ¼ tsp Tabasco
  • 2 cups water (partially pre-cook rice in this)
  • 1 cup rice
  • 1 oz black beans (drained, approx. 2 cups)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

  • In a large skillet or saucepan, sauté onion, green and red peppers, and garlic in a bit of oil over medium heat for about 10 minutes, until softened.

Step 2: Add Tomato and Seasonings

  • Stir in chopped tomato, salt, oregano, and Tabasco. Cook for another 2–3 minutes to develop flavor.

Step 3: Add Water and Bring to Boil

  • Pour in the water and bring mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Stir in Rice and Simmer

  • Add partially pre-cooked rice and stir well. Cover and cook over low heat for about 10 minutes, or until rice is tender.

Step 5: Add Black Beans

  • Stir in drained black beans and cook just until heated through. Serve warm.

Tips

  • Use brown rice for a heartier, higher-fiber version
  • Add cumin or chili powder for extra warmth and depth
  • Stir in fresh cilantro just before serving for brightness
  • Top with avocado slices for added creaminess
  • Serve as a side dish with grilled meats or fish
  • Turn into a burrito filling with tortillas and salsa
  • Add corn kernels for sweetness and texture
  • Reduce salt and Tabasco for a milder version

Nutrition

Calories: 245kcalCarbohydrates: 44gProtein: 9gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 0.6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 1.8gSodium: 420mgPotassium: 520mgFiber: 7gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 850IUVitamin C: 38mgCalcium: 62mgIron: 3.2mg
Keyword beans, budget friendly, one pot meal, pantry staples, rice dish, vegetarian, vintage recipe
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