Black Beans and Rice Recipe

This Black Beans and Rice recipe is a celebration of simplicity and flavor! It’s a classic dish that’s both budget-friendly and incredibly satisfying. We’re talking fluffy rice infused with the rich flavors of black beans, sofrito, and sazón. It’s a hearty and wholesome meal that comes together in just 45 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup, more deliciousness! This recipe is a breeze to make in a single pot.
  • Flavorful and Aromatic: The combination of sofrito, sazón, and black beans creates a symphony of flavors that will transport you to the Caribbean.
  • Budget-Friendly: With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that won’t break the bank.

Ingredients

You probably already have most of these ingredients in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Olive oil: For sautéing the sofrito.
  • Sofrito: A flavorful blend of vegetables and herbs that forms the base of many Caribbean dishes.
  • Black beans: Rinsed and drained, these add protein and a rich texture.
  • Long grain rice: Use your favorite variety!
  • Water: The cooking liquid for the rice and beans.
  • Sazón with achiote: A seasoning blend that adds a vibrant color and flavor.
  • Vegetable or chicken bouillon cube: Enhances the savory depth.
  • Kosher salt: To taste.

How to Make Black Beans and Rice

Step 1: Sauté the Sofrito

Heat the olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the sofrito and cook until fragrant, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Add the Beans and Rice

Add the rinsed black beans and rice to the pot and stir well to coat in the sofrito.

Step 3: Add the Liquids and Seasonings

Pour in the water, add the sazón, bouillon cube, and salt. Stir and bring to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer and Steam

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it sit, undisturbed, for another 5-8 minutes to allow the rice to finish steaming.

Step 5: Fluff and Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork and serve.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

  • Use quality sofrito: Homemade sofrito is best, but you can also find good quality store-bought versions.
  • Adjust the liquid: Depending on the type of rice you use, you may need to adjust the amount of water.
  • Don’t peek! Resist the urge to lift the lid while the rice is steaming. This will allow it to cook evenly.

How to Serve Black Beans and Rice

Black Beans and Rice Recipe
  • Simple Side: This dish is a fantastic side for grilled chicken, fish, or pork.
  • Hearty Meal: Top with a fried egg, avocado, or your favorite salsa for a complete and satisfying meal.
  • Leftover Love: It’s even delicious cold or reheated for lunch the next day.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water.

Black Beans and Rice Recipe

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of long grain rice?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of water.

What can I substitute for sofrito?
If you don’t have sofrito, you can use a combination of diced onions, bell peppers, garlic, and cilantro.

Can I make this recipe in a rice cooker?
Yes, you can! Sauté the sofrito separately, then add it to the rice cooker with the remaining ingredients and cook according to the rice cooker instructions.

How can I add more protein to this dish?
You can add cooked chicken, chorizo, or tofu to the pot along with the beans and rice.

There you have it! A simple, flavorful, and satisfying Black Beans and Rice recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

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Black Beans and Rice Recipe

Black Beans and Rice Recipe

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  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish, Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Latin American, Caribbean
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

This simple and flavorful Black Beans and Rice recipe is a classic comfort food. Made with pantry staples, it’s a budget-friendly and satisfying dish that comes together in under an hour.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Pantry

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 cup sofrito (I keep this in my freezer)
  • 1 can black beans (rinsed and drained)
  • 2 cups long grain rice (I like Carolina)
  • 3 1/2 cups water
  • 1 packet Sazon with achiote (or 1/2 tablespoon homemade sazon)
  • 1 large vegetable or chicken bouillon cube (such as Maggi)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

  1. Sauté Sofrito: Heat olive oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Add sofrito and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Add Beans and Rice: Add the rinsed black beans and rice to the pot. Stir to combine.
  3. Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the water. Add the Sazon seasoning, bouillon cube, and salt. Stir well.
  4. Bring to a Boil: Increase heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Cook until the liquid is almost absorbed and just skims the top of the rice.
  5. Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and simmer for 15 minutes.
  6. Rest and Fluff: Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5-8 minutes to allow the rice to finish steaming. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Notes

  • Sofrito is a flavorful blend of vegetables and herbs that is commonly used in Latin American and Caribbean cuisine. You can find it pre-made in the freezer section of most grocery stores or make your own.
  • Sazon seasoning is a blend of spices that typically includes cumin, coriander, garlic powder, and annatto. It can be found in the Latin American aisle of most grocery stores.
  • If you don’t have Sazon seasoning, you can substitute it with a blend of cumin, coriander, garlic powder, and turmeric.
  • For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño pepper.
  • This dish can be served as a side dish or a main course. It pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or vegetables.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 Serving
  • Calories: 220kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 4g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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