Black Beans & Rice Recipe

By FoodfaithfitnessMay 31, 2024Jump to Recipe

Black Beans & Rice—a classic that you can serve as a substantial side or light lunch.

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There are dozens of dishes that combine the protein-packed goodness of beans with the fiber-filled wholesomeness of rice. Because beans are such a great source of protein in places of the world where meat isn’t readily available, combining it with rice is a tasty and nutritious solution no matter where you call home. There are refried beans and yellow rice that you get served alongside your enchiladas at your local Mexican family restaurant, there’s sweet adzuki and rice-wafer cones for desserts, and our recipe for today: black beans and rice!

I used to eat black beans and rice with my family a lot. Whether it be alongside pulled pork at a cookout or grilled burgers with that backyard char, you could guarantee there’d be a bowl of rice and a pot of beans to ladle over it. The way that rice soaks up flavors makes every grain drenched in savory goodness. Plus, the colorful contrast of the beans makes this a dish you can eat with your eyes and your mouth! Top it with freshly cut cilantro and you’ve got an aromatic appetizer!

Is Black Beans and Rice Healthy?

Black beans and rice are a fantastic source of protein and fiber! We use chicken stock in our recipe for extra delicious rice and added protein; however, if you want a vegan option for your black beans and rice, simply cook your rice in water or vegetable stock instead!

Beans and rice—a delicious duo

Whether it’s refried beans and yellow rice, black beans and jasmine rice, or even sweet red beans and white rice, there’s an undeniable union between beans and rice that keeps them tastily tangled throughout history! So what is it about beans and rice that just works?

Scientists would say beans and rice complement each other on a molecular level when paired. So our bodies may yearn for beans with rice whether we are conscious of it or not.

Economists would say it all comes down to price. Beans and rice are both inexpensive compared to animal proteins and other grains, making them an optimal combination for impoverished nations.

From a culinary perspective, there’s something to be said about the relative neutrality of beans and rice as food staples. This makes them the perfect foundation for fanciful flavors to emerge like herbs and spices cooked into the dish (cilantro and lime, for instance!).

INGREDIENTS

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 cups white rice, long grain or jasmine
4 cups chicken broth
2 cans (14 ounces each) black beans, drained and rinsed
3-4 tablespoons lime juice, adjusted to taste
4 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley, finely chopped

INSTRUCTIONS

Saute

Cook onion, garlic, cumin, and rice.

Simmer

Add broth and beans, then cook until rice is tender.

Devour!

Season with lime and herbs, then serve.

FAQs & Tips

How do I prep and store beans & rice?

Reheat your black beans and rice with a splash of chicken stock to ensure your rice doesn’t get overly dry and you can have black beans and rice any time!

Do I need to drain my black beans before I use them?

Most people making this recipe are going to be using canned black beans and, generally, it’s advised to drain your beans before cooking; however, if you don’t want to use chicken stock and are looking for a more uniform flavor profile, try using your black bean drainage when cooking your rice!

Does it have to be black beans? Can I improvise?

I would stick to black beans and rice unless you’re willing to compromise on the resulting flavor. Jasmine rice, cilantro, and lime supply the flavor of this dish, so having black beans, which are nutrient-dense and have a mild flavor, is ideal.

Serving Suggestions

Black beans and rice are an excellent couple for pulled pork (especially our pineapple salsa slow-cooked pulled pork tacos!) and other deliciously savory dishes! Try serving them up next to other soul-food staples like lentil soup and cauliflower casserole! Plate your black beans and rice alongside a whole30 keto chili next time you’re hosting the cookout.

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