Description
This Cuban Black Beans and Rice recipe is a classic, flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Featuring tender, seasoned black beans simmered with aromatic spices and sautéed vegetables, served over fluffy white or brown rice, it brings a taste of traditional Cuban cuisine right to your table. Easy to prepare and packed with wholesome ingredients, this recipe suits both weeknight dinners and special gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Beans
- 1 cup dried black beans (or 2 cans of black beans, rinsed and drained)
- 2 cups water (if using dried beans)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables & Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Rice & Garnishes
- 2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Beans: If using dried black beans, rinse them and soak overnight. Drain and place in a pot with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 45 minutes until tender. If using canned beans, you can skip this step.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until vegetables soften and become fragrant.
- Add Spices: Stir in ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to toast the spices and boost their flavor.
- Combine Beans with Vegetables: Add the cooked beans (or canned beans) to the skillet along with the bay leaf. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer Mixture: If the mixture looks dry, add a little water. Simmer on low heat for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Cook Rice: If rice is not already cooked, prepare it according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork once done.
- Assemble and Serve: Serve a generous portion of rice topped with the flavorful black beans. Garnish with fresh cilantro and accompany with lime wedges for an extra burst of freshness.
Notes
- For a healthier option, substitute white rice with brown rice.
- Soaking dried beans overnight helps reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeño during the sauté step.
- Leftover beans can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for longer storage.
- Omitting the bay leaf will slightly alter the flavor but the dish will still be delicious.
