Spanish Rice and Beans uses pantry staples to create a nutritious, flavorful one pot meal. Vegetarian, gluten free, and so simple to make, this rice and beans recipe will become a staple.
Beans and rice is a beloved one-pot meal that graces dinner tables around the world When properly prepared, this humble combination delivers comfort, nutrition, and satisfaction like few other dishes can If you’re seeking next-level beans and rice that will have your family begging for seconds, read on.
Below I’ll share my top tips and tricks for infusing this classic with deep, complex flavor in every bite. A few simple techniques make all the difference between basic beans and rice and an irresistible pot bursting with deliciousness.
Start with Aromatic Flavor Building Blocks
The foundation of fabulous flavor for beans and rice is laid with aromatic vegetables cooked in oil. This builds incredible depth
The onion – Diced yellow onion cooked until soft and translucent in the oil imparts a sweet, earthy base note.
The garlic – Mincing 3-4 cloves and cooking briefly in the oil adds a punch of savory garlic flavor.
The peppers – For a flavor twist, add 1/2 cup diced bell pepper with the onion and garlic. Red or yellow peppers are sweet.
The chilies – For heat, add a minced jalapeño or serrano chili. For mild spice, remove the seeds first.
Layer in Savory Spices and Herbs
Complement the aromatics with spices like cumin, oregano, coriander and smoky paprika or chili powder. Fresh herbs like cilantro or epazote enhance the flavors.
The cumin – 1-2 teaspoons ground cumin adds an earthy, nutty punch and is essential for Mexican-style beans and rice.
The oregano – A teaspoon of dried oregano contributes a subtle grassy, herbaceous note. Use sparingly to avoid overwhelming other flavors.
The coriander – A half teaspoon ground coriander adds citrusy, orange-like flavor. It’s excellent paired with cumin.
The chili powder – For mild heat and smoky depth, add a teaspoon of ancho or New Mexican chili powder.
The epazote – This unique Mexican herb has a complex savory flavor. Chop a tablespoon fresh or use dried.
Infuse Big, Bold Seasonings
Adding larger seasoning elements infuses big flavors throughout each bite of beans and rice.
Sauté smoked meat – Browning smoked sausage or bacon tops the dish with smoky, salty flavor. Use turkey or veggie options to keep it meat-free.
Cook in seasoned broth – Swap plain water for chicken or vegetable broth to impart deep, savory flavor into every grain of rice.
Add diced tomatoes – For bright acidity, add a 14-ounce can diced tomatoes when cooking the rice. Fire-roasted tomatoes add bonus smoky flavor.
Finish with citrus – Right before serving, stir in the zest and juice of 1 lime or lemon. This adds brightness.
Ensure Creamy, Toothsome Beans
No pot of beans and rice is complete without perfectly cooked, creamy beans.
Soak beans overnight – Covering dried beans with water overnight softens them for more even cooking and improves digestion.
Simmer beans thoroughly – Beans should cook gently until completely tender and creamy, not al dente. Don’t rush this step.
Slightly mash some beans – For extra creaminess, mash about a quarter of the beans right in the pot using a potato masher or fork.
Stir in flavorful fat – Swirl in a tablespoon of butter, olive oil or bacon grease right before serving to add moisture and richness.
Achieve Fluffy, Separate Grains
Properly cooked rice is key for the best pot of beans and rice. Follow these steps:
Rinse rice – Washing rice removes excess starch for fluffier results. Drain well.
Use a 2:1 ratio – Combine 2 cups broth/water to 1 cup rice. This ensures perfect moisture.
Simmer gently – Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes. Don’t lift the lid!
Rest rice – Remove pot from heat and let sit covered for 10 minutes to finish steaming.
Fluff with fork – Gently fluff just before serving to separate grains. Resist over-stirring.
Finish with Fresh Flair
Bright toppings add fresh contrast right before eating for the perfect pot of beans and rice.
Chopped cilantro – This classic herb offers a fresh grassy flavor and beautiful green flecks.
Diced onion – A sprinkle of raw diced white or red onion adds a punch of crispness.
Lime wedges – For a burst of citrus over each bite, offer fresh lime wedges on the side.
Diced avocado – Creamy avocado cubes add cool richness and pretty green color on top.
Hot sauce – Offer your favorite hot sauce like Cholula, Tapatio or salsa for those who like some heat.
With these tips, you’re ready to create the most insanely delicious pot of beans and rice ever. From deeply seasoned broth to perfectly cooked rice and beans, follow these steps and this comfort food classic will never taste the same again.
FAQs and Expert Tips
Rice and beans offer fiber, B vitamins, and important minerals like zinc and selenium.
In addition, this mix has a lot of protein, which makes it filling and good for your blood sugar.
Step 4: Add the Tomatoes, Beans, and Broth
Add tomatoes, beans, and broth.
Simmer the mixture for about 25 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
Lastly, scatter the olives overtop and drizzle with parsley oil, if desired!
The Best Mexican Rice and Beans You’ll Ever Make | Epicurious 101
FAQ
How can I make my beans more flavorful?
What are the ingredients in rice and beans?
How to make canned beans taste delicious?
Should I drain beans for rice and beans?
How do you cook red beans & rice?
Red Beans and Rice is one of those incredibly simple but delicious recipes that offer a huge bang for your buck. The winning texture and flavor combination is hard not to love! Pour the beans in a large bowl, add enough cool water to submerge the beans completely, and leave to soak for at least 4 hours.
What should I use to mix in boiled rice?
Adding veggies like carrots is a good way to vary it up. In addition to making the dish more beautiful and colorful, you enjoy the benefits of vegetables.
How do you make red beans & rice from scratch?
Making red beans and rice from scratch is easy; all it takes is beans, vegetables, some cured pork and sausage, and patience. Soaking beans in salted water helps them cook up more tender. Multiple cured pork products lend deep flavor to the beans.
How long does it take to cook rice & beans?
Put rice, beans, and water in a pan. Add seasoning and stir. Bring to a boil over high heat. Cover and turn burner to low to simmer. Cook for 15 minutes then check for doneness. *Some readers have noted the chili powder is too strong in this recipe.