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Spanish Rice and Beans

Spanish Rice and Beans
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A simple and flavorful Spanish Rice and Beans recipe combining aromatic spices, hearty beans, and fluffy rice. Easy to prepare, nutritious, budget-friendly, and perfect for meal prep, this dish offers comforting zest and versatility for any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 1 cup long grain white rice
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce or 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth

Spices and Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Other Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes, which creates the perfect flavor base.
  2. Toast the Rice: Add the rice to the skillet and stir for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to coat in the oil and lightly toast. This step gives the rice a nutty aroma and helps keep the grains fluffy.
  3. Add Spices and Liquid: Sprinkle in ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well, then pour in the tomato sauce and broth. Mix everything, scraping any browned bits from the pan to maximize flavor.
  4. Cook the Rice: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  5. Stir in Beans and Rest: Fold in drained and rinsed beans gently to avoid mashing. Cover again and let the dish rest off the heat for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld beautifully.

Notes

  • Use Quality Broth: A flavorful broth drastically improves the depth of taste compared to plain water.
  • Rinse Beans Thoroughly: Reduces excess sodium and prevents overly thick texture.
  • Don’t Skip Toasting Rice: Enhances texture and adds subtle nuttiness.
  • Adjust Seasonings Gradually: Taste as you go and balance spices to your preference.
  • Let It Rest: Allow finished rice and beans to sit covered for a few minutes for flavors to fully develop.

Nutrition

Keywords: Spanish rice and beans, easy rice recipe, vegetarian, gluten-free, meal prep, budget-friendly, healthy dinner

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/spanish-rice-and-beans/