If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying side dish, this Easy Mexican Rice with Black Beans will hit the spot. It’s a vibrant dish that pairs perfectly with your favorite Mexican meals or stands alone as a hearty vegetarian option.
Imagine a fluffy bed of rice, infused with spices and complemented by the richness of black beans. This recipe not only brings color to your plate but also a delightful taste that’s sure to please your palate. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for weeknight dinners.
This dish is all about balance. The tender rice absorbs the flavors of zesty tomatoes and spices, while the black beans provide creaminess and a protein boost. It’s a dish that feels both comforting and energizing.
Vibrant Ingredients
The foundation of Easy Mexican Rice with Black Beans lies in its colorful and wholesome ingredients.
Rich black beans combine with fluffy long-grain rice, creating a hearty base that is both filling and nutritious.
Diced tomatoes and bell peppers add brightness, not only in color but also in flavor. The spices used, such as cumin and chili powder, enhance the dish’s appeal, offering warmth and depth.
Preparation Steps
Preparing this dish is a straightforward process that doesn’t require extensive culinary skills.
Start by sautéing onions and bell peppers until they soften, allowing their natural sweetness to emerge. This step sets the stage for the robust flavors that follow.
Once the aromatics are ready, the rice is added along with the spices, toasting everything together to build a rich, savory base.
Cooking Techniques
After mixing in the rice and spices, the next crucial step involves adding tomatoes and broth.
This combination creates a flavorful liquid that helps cook the rice while infusing it with deliciousness.
As the mixture simmers, the rice absorbs all the flavors, resulting in a tender and delicious dish.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving Easy Mexican Rice with Black Beans, presentation plays a key role.
Spoon the fluffy rice into rustic bowls, garnishing it with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness.
For an added crunch, serve with lime wedges and tortilla chips on the side, allowing diners to customize their experience.
Pairing Options
This dish could complement a variety of main courses, such as grilled chicken, fish tacos, or vegetable fajitas.
Its versatility as a side dish makes it an excellent choice for any Mexican-themed meal or casual gathering.
Moreover, it can stand on its own as a hearty vegetarian option, making it suitable for different dietary preferences.
Nutritional Benefits
Not only is Easy Mexican Rice with Black Beans a visually appealing dish, but it also offers several nutritional benefits.
The black beans provide a source of plant-based protein, while the rice contributes carbohydrates for energy.
With the addition of colorful vegetables, this dish is not only satisfying but also packed with vitamins and minerals, supporting a balanced diet.
Simple and Tasty Mexican Rice with Black Beans
This Easy Mexican Rice with Black Beans is a savory medley of fluffy rice, hearty black beans, and zesty spices. The dish is beautifully colored with diced tomatoes and bell peppers, making it visually appealing and deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until soft (about 5 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add Rice and Spices: Add the rice to the pot, stirring to combine with the aromatics. Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper, cooking for a couple of minutes until the rice is lightly toasted.
- Combine Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Incorporate Black Beans: Once the rice is cooked, gently fold in the black beans, allowing them to warm through. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork, and serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
