Best Black Beans and Rice Recipe

Family Favorite

Discover the best black beans and rice recipe that's a family favorite. Easy to make with canned black beans, rice, garlic, and cilantro, this dish is perfect as a side or main meal. Ready in under an hour!

Most of our recipes call for draining and rinsing the beans to remove the excess salt and starch and improve flavor. Draining and rinsing can also remove the metallic flavor sometimes found in canned beans

Why should you drain canned beans?

Rice and beans is a category of dishes from many cultures around the world, whereby the staple foods of rice and beans are combined in some manner. The grain and legume combination provides several important nutrients and many calories, and both foods are widely available.

Rice and beans

Rice and Beans

FAQs

1. Can I use dried beans instead of canned? Yes, soak and cook dried beans before using them in the recipe.

2. How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. Can I use vegetable bouillon instead of chicken? Yes, for a vegetarian version, use vegetable bouillon.

4. Is there a substitute for Sazon? You can make your own Sazon mix or use a similar seasoning blend.

5. How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the pot? Ensure the rice is rinsed well to remove excess starch and stir occasionally.

6. Can I freeze this dish? Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months.

7. What can I serve with this dish? It pairs well with grilled meats, salads, or as a filling for burritos.

8. Can I use other types of rice? Yes, but cooking times may vary. Adjust water and time accordingly.

9. How do I add more flavor? Add more herbs and spices to taste, such as cumin or bay leaves.

10. Is this dish gluten-free? Yes, if you use gluten-free bouillon and seasonings.

11. Can I add vegetables? Yes, bell peppers, onions, or tomatoes can be added.

12. How do I reheat the leftovers? Reheat in a microwave or stovetop with a little water to keep it moist.

13. Can I cook this in a rice cooker? Yes, after sautéing the garlic and beans, transfer to a rice cooker with the water and rice.

14. What is the best way to mash the garlic? Using a mortar and pestle or a garlic press.

15. Can I make this dish spicy? Yes, add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Watch the video recipe

Black Beans and Rice Recipe

Serving: 6-8 people

Introduction

This Black Beans and Rice recipe is a family favorite, bringing together the flavors of garlic, cilantro, and seasoned black beans with fluffy rice. It's a perfect side dish or a hearty meal on its own.

Ingredients

  • 1 (15 oz) can of black beans, drained

  • 3 cups rice, rinsed

  • 3 cups water

  • 1 chicken bouillon cube

  • 1 packet of Sazon

  • 5 garlic cloves

  • ½ tsp oregano

  • ½ tsp salt

  • 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Directions

  1. Make Garlic Paste: In a mortar, mash 4 garlic cloves with ½ tsp oregano and ½ tsp salt until it forms a paste.

  2. Saute Garlic: In a large pot over medium-high heat, add 2 tbsp vegetable oil. Add the garlic paste and saute for 30 seconds.

  3. Add Beans: Stir in the drained black beans.

  4. Add Seasoning: Add 1 packet of Sazon, stir well.

  5. Boil: Add 3 cups of water and a chicken bouillon cube. Bring to a boil.

  6. Add Rice: Stir in the rinsed rice and 1 tbsp chopped cilantro. Continue boiling until the water is reduced.

  7. Simmer: Once the water has evaporated, reduce the heat to low. Cover with a tight lid and cook for 45-50 minutes, stirring after 25 minutes.

  8. Serve: Once cooked, fluff the rice and beans and serve.

Enjoy your Black Beans and Rice!

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