Print

Easy Flavor-Packed Black Beans and Rice Side Recipe You Must Try Today

black beans and rice side - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and simple side dish featuring smoky, tangy black beans and fluffy rice, perfect for busy weeknights or any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cans (15 oz / 425 g each) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup (185 g) long-grain white rice, rinsed
  • 2 cups (480 ml) vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon chipotle chili powder (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • A handful fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. Set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil over medium heat in a skillet. Add chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent and slightly golden.
  3. Add minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chipotle chili powder. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  4. Transfer the sautéed onion and spice mixture to a medium saucepan. Add rinsed rice and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  5. Reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
  6. Gently fold in the drained black beans. Cover and cook for another 5 minutes on low heat.
  7. Remove from heat. Stir in salt, black pepper, and fresh lime juice. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  8. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired and serve warm.

Notes

Rinsing the rice removes excess starch for fluffier texture. Avoid stirring rice while cooking to prevent clumping. Use vegetable broth for added flavor. Fresh lime juice added at the end brightens the dish. This recipe is forgiving and adaptable; you can add veggies or adjust spices to taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: black beans, rice, easy side dish, quick recipe, smoky, tangy, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free

Find it online: https://sparklechew.com/easy-flavor-packed-black-beans-and-rice-side-recipe-you-must-try-today/