Easy Black Beans and Rice Recipe (2024)

Thiseasy black beans and rice recipegoes great with just about any meat, or you can stir in diced chicken or sausage to make a one-dish meal. It is versatile, inexpensive, andverytasty.

This black and beans rice recipe is so good, y’all.It’s one of my family’s favorite dishes, and it’s so versatile! Serve it as a side with any meat of your choice, stir in some chicken or sausage, use it tofill burritos, or just eat it on its own. So many possibilities!

Easy Black Beans and Rice Recipe (1)

What You Need To Know about Black Beans and Rice Recipe

Rice is a non-allergenic and gluten-free food. It is a member of the grass family, which is consumed by nearly half of the world’s population. It is the staple diet for many regions of the world, including South America and Asia. Many people think that rice’s origins can be traced back to 3000 BC in India, where locals found the plant growing wild. Interesting, right? Keep reading and enjoy this easy black beans and rice recipe.

All beans are naturally low in fat and a great source of protein, magnesium, dietary fiber, complex carbs, iron, and antioxidants. High fiber foods are a smart choice for diabetics and other low-fat diets since they can help naturally decrease cholesterol and prevent blood sugar levels. Constant bean consumption can protect against cancer, heart problems, and aging.

Influenced By Many Cultures

Beans and rice are belonging many cultures around the world and these staple foods combine and make a great dish. The mix of plant foods offers a number of crucial elements as well as a substantial amount of calories, and both meals are commonly available. While the rice can be either plain or seasoned, the beans are typically seasoned. The two ingredients can be combined, served individually on the platter, or both together. The beans add a lovely, rich taste to the rice and are a fantastic source of protein.

Rice with black beans is such a traditional pairing. There are many different methods to prepare it, but this one is simple, quick to prepare, and delicious. Beans and rice are a staple food in many countries, and there are countless variations of this straightforward but satisfying dish. Different versions of this well-known meal can be found in nations including Brazil, Puerto Rico, Costa Rica, Venezuela, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Korea, the United States, and the Caribbean.

Easy Black Beans and Rice Recipe (2)

Reason Why We Need To Eat This Food

This food is quite healthy! Beans are rich in protein and iron and serve as a satisfying carbohydrate when combined with rice (beans are definitely the most nutritious of the pair). They also give a complete protein, which is necessary for our bodies to remain healthy. Veggies are a simple, wholesome addition to any meal. It is incredibly versatile and inexpensive. The outcome is a delicious and flavorful dish that is ideal for those times when you need to prepare a supper quickly.

How to Make Black Beans and Rice?

Since I can eat way more than my fair share of black bean rice, I like to double the recipeso we have leftovers for lunches. It works well in lunchboxes, or I like to make a quickburrito bowlwith the addition of some lettuce, salsa, sour cream, and cheese.

Ifound inspiration for this recipe on AllRecipes years ago, and I think it may be the first time I have ever cooked with cumin. I was instantly sold! If you haven’t yet cooked with cumin, just trust me that it makes the dish. It’s definitely worth buying a jar if you don’t already have some. I always include itin my Mexican recipes because I love its distinctive flavor, and it’s all thanks to these black beans and rice.

I hope you will love this recipe as much as we do!

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Easy Black Beans and Rice Recipe (3)

Easy Black Beans and Rice Recipe

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This simple side dish is versatile, inexpensive, and tasty. Serve with any meat, use it in burritos, or add diced chicken or sausage to make a one-dish meal.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Ingredients

UnitsScale

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic crushed or minced
  • 1 cup white rice I like medium grain
  • 2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 15 ounces can and seasoned black beans drained and rinsed
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion, and sauté 3 minutes, until onion is tender and starting to brown. Add garlic, and sauté one minute longer. Add uncooked rice, and stir and sauté 2 minutes.
  2. Add broth, salt, and cumin. Stir together, and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer 20 minutes.
  3. Remove lid, stir in beans, and cover again. Turn off heat, and let stand for 3 minutes before serving. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Notes

Recipe adapted from AllRecipes.com.

  • Author: Andi Gleeson
  • Prep Time: 5
  • Cook Time: 25
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutritional Information

Beans are rich in protein, carbohydrates, micronutrients, and fiber. They also include folate, which is often lacking in American diets. The combination of grains and protein is filling and nutritious.

Rice (a grain) and beans (a legume) are each vegetarian and together make up a complete protein, providing each of the amino acids the body cannot make for itself. While rice is rich in starch and thus is a great source of energy, beans contain iron and a good amount of protein.

Per Serving:

Calories125 kcalCarbohydrates26 g
Protein2 gFat1 g
Saturated Fat1 gMonounsaturated Fat1 mg
Iron1 mgSodium6 mg
Potassium57 mgFiber1 g
Sugar1 gVitamin A4IU
Vitamin C1 mgCalcium18 mg

Variation and Substitution of Black Beans and Rice Recipe

This is a basic recipe for beans and rice, and you may modify it by adding a number of different ingredients.

Vegetables:A few examples of veggies to try including are chopped tomato, maize, red bell pepper, green chilies, and zucchini.

Beans:Black beans can be replaced with pinto beans.

Cheese:Consider adding a sprinkling of Monterey Jack, Cheddar, or Cotija cheese.

Spices:To the mixture, you can add more flavors like ground coriander, chili powder, or crushed red pepper flakes.

Health Benefits

For good reasons, rice and beans are a popular pairing in many different cultures all over the world. They both provide a cheap dish that is nutritious and rich in complex carbohydrates while being low in fat. Black beans and rice both have high protein content and at least 10% of each of the seven vitamins and minerals.

  • Gluten-free and naturally anti-inflammatory.
  • Enhances the health of the nervous system.
  • Great Source of Energy.
  • Constipation prevention due to diuretic and digestive properties.
  • Can Aid in Lowering Cancer Risks.
  • Stops obesity.
  • Regulates blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
  • Good Protein Source

What Do You Love About Black Beans and Rice?

It is easy to have most, if not all, of the ingredients on hand that are needed for this recipe. This dinner recipe is easy to prepare. It tastes and looks good, that everyone likes, and that doesn’t take a ton of time in the kitchen.

  • It has great flavor.
  • Made in one pot
  • Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free and soy-free
  • Uses inexpensive pantry staples
  • Seasoned to perfection with Mexican-inspired flavors like cumin and chili powder

How to Store Black Beans and Rice Food?

Serve:Black beans and rice can be kept at room temperature for about two hours before serving.

Store:This recipe is excellent for meal preparation because it keeps well as leftovers. Beans and rice can be kept in the fridge for up to five days if they aren’t eaten.

Re-Heat:Heat food slowly in a microwave or on the stovetop to reheat. Then cover the rice with a wet paper towel before heating it in the microwave. By doing this, moisture will be added, resulting in fluffy, soft rice after reheating.

Freeze:Black Beans and Rice can be frozen for up to three weeks in an airtight container or zip-top bag as long as it is properly sealed.

More Easy Black Beans and Rice Recipes For You

Easy Black Beans and Rice Recipe (2024)

FAQs

What are the best beans for beans and rice? ›

Though red beans and rice is the best-known version of this dish, it is frequently made with other types of beans, and you can do the same if you'd like. Pink beans, white cannellini beans, even black beans will all taste great with the same basic technique.

Is it OK to eat beans and rice everyday? ›

Yes, you can eat rice and beans every day. Many people in third world countries do. Rice and beans are complementary vegetables that together provide all the necessary amino acids and minerals to live on, although either alone will be deficient in some. A 50/50 mix is ideal.

How to jazz up beans and rice? ›

"I recommend adding a fresh mango avocado salsa made with red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, lime juice, and a pinch of salt to brighten up the dish. Because the beans and rice have so much earthiness, the fruit and acidity will lighten the plate. A margarita is always great, as well."

Are black beans and rice healthy? ›

When people eat black beans with rice, their blood sugar levels tend to be lower than if they only ate rice. For people with diabetes, adding beans to a healthy diet can improve blood sugar control while reducing heart disease risk.

What to add to rice and beans for flavor? ›

By using aromatics like onions, garlic, bay leaves, and spices, you can add extra flavor to your beans.

How do you make beans and rice taste better? ›

Spices – A mix of smoked paprika (or regular paprika, but smoked is SO good), cumin, chili powder, cayenne (optional), salt, and pepper make this rice and beans dish taste amazing. Add fresh cilantro to really make it come alive!

What does rice and beans do to your body? ›

Together, rice and beans are nutritional magic

Rice and beans, when served together, contain all nine essential amino acids to form a complete source of protein. Both brown and white rice are low in the essential amino acid lysine, but high in the essential amino acid methionine.

Are canned beans as healthy as dried beans? ›

Canned beans are a versatile processed food and offer a nutritional profile similar to that of dried beans. They are an excellent source of fiber, plant-based protein, and other essential nutrients, such as folate and potassium.

What meat goes with rice and beans? ›

A few that come to mind are:
  • Fried, grilled or smoked chicken.
  • Fried Oysters, scallops, shrimp or clams.
  • Smothered, grilled or fried pork chops.
  • Steak.
  • Smoked meats such as pork ribs, pulled pork, brisket, or hot links.
  • Fried, grilled, or blackened fish.
  • Meatloaf.
Mar 2, 2018

What is rice and beans together called? ›

Gallopinto, the rice-and-beans combination, is known by many names across Latin America, some charming like casamiento (wedding) others rather dated and decidedly politically incorrect like moros y cristianos (Moors and Christians).

Are canned black beans good for you? ›

Canned black beans are a versatile, ready-to-use ingredient that you can use to boost the nutrient content of many dishes. They're a rich source of plant-based protein and fiber. This makes them a weight-loss-friendly food that may also help you manage blood sugar levels and lower your risk of heart disease.

Are black beans healthier than meat? ›

Rather than clogging your innards with heaps of fat, the black bean provides a clean healthier alternative, but still with plenty of punch. With only a 5g difference in protein provided per 100g its clear that the beany benefits outweigh the cholesterol cons!

What is healthier white rice or black beans? ›

A new study by HSPH researchers Josiemer Mattei, Frank Hu, and Hannia Campos has found that beans are the far healthier half of the classic beans and rice dish. The researchers studied the diets of nearly 1,900 Costa Rican men and women participating in a 10-year study on heart disease risk factors.

What beans can you eat with rice? ›

First, it's way more nutritious than white rice. And second, it's WAY more filling which means you don't need to eat as much to be as full. My favorite type of bean to add is either black beans or pinto beans, both are excellent choices and I find even if I'm buying organic, it's still not expensive.

Which beans are the best beans to eat? ›

  1. Chickpeas. Also known as garbanzo beans, chickpeas are a great source of fiber and protein. ...
  2. Lentils. Lentils are a great source of vegetarian protein and can be a good addition to soups and stews. ...
  3. Peas. Peas are also a type of legume. ...
  4. Kidney beans. ...
  5. Black beans. ...
  6. Soybeans. ...
  7. Pinto beans. ...
  8. Navy beans.

What are the top five beans? ›

America's favorite bean is pinto beans, according to the U.S. Dry Beans Council, often used to make refried beans. Navy beans, Great Northern beans, red kidney beans and black beans round out the rest of the top five.

What kind of beans are used in Chinese food? ›

Just as Indian vegetarian food depends a lot on lentils and pulses, the Chinese pantry cannot do without beans. Red beans, green beans, soybeans, black beans, speckled beans - even beans with "eyebrows". We eat these so often they have become forgotten, part of the background of everyday home-cooked food.

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