Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your kitchen into a vibrant Cuban paradise! Our Cuban-Style Black Beans and Rice recipe is more than just a meal—it's a celebration of rich cultural flavors, hearty ingredients, and the warmth of traditional Caribbean cooking. Whether you're a seasoned home chef or a curious food adventurer, this dish promises to tantalize your senses and bring the spirit of Havana right to your dining table.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Cuban
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup black beans, soaked overnight
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup rice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Drain the black beans that have been soaked overnight and rinse them thoroughly under cold water.
- In a large pot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and bell peppers, sautéing until the vegetables become soft and translucent, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cumin to the pot, stirring continuously for about 30 seconds to release their aromatic flavors without burning.
- Add the soaked black beans and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, partially covered, for about 20-25 minutes until beans are tender.
- While beans are simmering, prepare the rice in a separate pot according to package instructions, typically using a 2:1 water to rice ratio.
- Season the beans with salt and pepper to taste during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Once beans are tender and rice is fluffy, remove from heat and let both rest for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve the beans over the rice, garnish with fresh chopped cilantro, and enjoy your authentic Cuban-style dish.
Tips
- Soak beans overnight: This ensures even cooking and helps reduce cooking time and digestive discomfort.
- Don't rush the sautéing: Take your time caramelizing onions and bell peppers to develop a deep, rich flavor base.
- Toast your cumin: Briefly toasting cumin in the pot before adding other ingredients intensifies its nutty, warm aroma.
- Use vegetable broth for extra flavor: It adds more depth compared to plain water.
- Let beans and rice rest: Allowing both to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps them absorb remaining moisture and develop a more cohesive texture.
- Fresh cilantro is key: Add it just before serving to maintain its bright, fresh flavor and vibrant green color.
- Consider making extra: This dish tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to meld.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 53g
Protein: 9g
Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
