Rice and beans—a classic combo that wraps around your heart like a warm, cozy blanket on a chilly evening. This dish takes me back to my childhood kitchen, where the hearty aroma of sautéed onions and garlic would drift through the air, promising a comforting meal that would bring family and friends together. As the steam would rise from the pot, my heart would swell with anticipation, knowing we were in for something special.
Life can be hectic, and on busy days, it’s easy to reach for takeout instead of cooking. But there’s something truly rewarding about making a delicious meal from scratch, especially one that reminds us of home. That’s why this Rice and Beans recipe is my go-to for an easy weeknight dinner. It’s simple, nourishing, and you’ll definitely want to pin this cozy dish for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup means you can spend more time enjoying your meal.
- Budget-Friendly: With pantry staples, this dish is easy on the wallet.
- Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love the creamy texture and comforting flavors.
- Nutrient-Dense: Packed with protein and fiber, rice and beans make for a healthy choice.
What You’ll Need
Gather These Simple Ingredients:
- 1 cup rice
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Let’s Make It Together
- In a pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat, allowing it to shimmer warmly.
- Add the chopped onions and bell pepper, cooking until they soften and their natural sweetness begins to unfold.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cumin, letting the spices mingle together for about a minute, releasing their lovely fragrance.
- Carefully add the rice and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, watching for those first bubbles to pop!
- Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, until the rice is tender and the liquid has mostly absorbed.
- Stir in the black beans, seasoning them with salt and pepper, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and harmonious.
- Serve hot, and enjoy the comforting warmth this dish brings!
Delicious Variations to Try
- Zesty Lime and Cilantro: Add the juice of one lime and a handful of freshly chopped cilantro for a refreshing twist.
- Smoky Chipotle: Stir in some chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy flavor that will awaken your senses.
- Creamy Avocado: Top your rice and beans with sliced avocado for a creamy texture that complements the dish beautifully.
- Seasonal Veggies: Toss in some seasonal veggies like corn or zucchini for seasonal freshness and added color.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
- Make-Ahead Advice: This dish is perfect for meal prepping! Make a big batch and store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Ingredient Swaps: Use brown rice for a nuttier flavor, or quinoa for a protein-packed alternative.
- Slicing Tricks: Chop the onions and bell pepper in advance and store them in the fridge to save time!
- Freezing Suggestions: This dish can be frozen! Portion it into freezer-safe containers for up to three months.
Nutrition Information per Serving
- Serving size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Sugar: 2g
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Sodium: 410mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be made in advance for quick meals.
Can I use different ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to swap in different beans or grains based on what you have on hand.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
How long does it last?
When properly stored, it can last in the fridge for up to four days, or in the freezer for about three months.
Wrapping It Up
There’s something deeply comforting about making Rice and Beans; it’s a reminder of home, warmth, and togetherness that fills the room. This simple dish is not just food; it’s an experience that fulfills your belly and nourishes your spirit. Save this Rice and Beans to your comfort food board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat!
Print
Rice and Beans
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A comforting and nutritious one-pot meal, Rice and Beans is quick, easy, and family-friendly.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rice
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Instructions
- Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and bell pepper, cooking until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cumin, cooking for about a minute.
- Add the rice and vegetable broth, bringing to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes.
- Stir in the black beans, season with salt and pepper, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Great for meal prepping and can be frozen for up to three months. Try adding lime, chipotle, or avocado for variations.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: easy dinner, one-pot meal, comfort food, healthy, vegetarian