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One-Pot Flavor-Packed Black Beans and Rice

A close-up of fluffy rice mixed with dark red kidney beans, topped generously with fresh chopped cilantro, served in a white bowl.
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Make this simple, hearty black beans and rice dish in one pot for easy cleanup. It works well as a main course or a side dish for weeknight meals.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the uncooked rice until it is coated with the spices and oil. Cook for 1 minute.
  4. Add the rinsed black beans, vegetable broth, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir everything together.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and simmer for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Do not lift the lid during this time.
  6. Remove the pot from the heat. Let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Remove and discard the bay leaf.
  7. Stir in the salt, pepper, and fresh lime juice. Fluff the rice gently with a fork.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Notes

  • For a heartier meal, add 1 cup of cooked, sliced smoked sausage or shredded cooked chicken during the last 5 minutes of simmering.
  • If you prefer a creamier texture, mash about 1/4 cup of the beans against the side of the pot before adding the broth.
  • This recipe is naturally gluten free and vegetarian.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://devourdish.com/black-beans-and-rice-recipe/