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Easy Flavor-Packed Rice and Beans Recipe for Perfect Everyday Meals

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A quick and easy rice and beans recipe that is flavorful, comforting, and perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. This dish features smoky spices, fresh lime, and optional cilantro for a fresh finish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (about 185g)
  • 1 can black beans (15 oz/425g), drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 2 cups vegetable broth (475ml)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • A small handful fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear (about 2 minutes).
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed rice, vegetable broth, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
  3. While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Add minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly.
  5. Add drained black beans to the skillet and stir to coat with spices and aromatics. Cook for 3-4 minutes until heated through.
  6. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and add it to the skillet with the beans. Gently fold together until well combined and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
  7. Remove from heat, squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in chopped cilantro if using.
  8. Serve warm, optionally with sautéed greens or your favorite hot sauce.

Notes

Rinsing the rice removes excess starch for fluffier texture. Use a tight-fitting lid to trap steam while cooking rice. Avoid stirring rice while simmering to prevent mushiness. Adding fresh lime juice at the end brightens the flavors. For a smoky boost, add a pinch of chipotle powder. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 4 days and freeze nicely. Reheat with a splash of broth or water to keep moist.

Nutrition

Keywords: rice and beans, easy recipe, quick dinner, vegan, gluten-free, plant-based, weeknight meal, smoky spices, healthy comfort food

Find it online: https://siennaspoon.com/easy-flavor-packed-rice-and-beans-recipe-for-perfect-everyday-meals/