Red Beans and Rice Recipe π
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Description:
Experience the vibrant flavors of Puerto Rican cuisine with this authentic Red Beans and Rice recipe! Bursting with savory kidney beans, tangy tomato sauce, and aromatic spices, this dish is a delightful blend of Caribbean goodness. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a culinary journey to the heart of Puerto Rico. π΅π·
Ingredients:
Ingredients | Quantities |
---|---|
Kidney beans | 1 can (15 oz) |
Tomato sauce | 4 cups |
Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
Potato | 1, medium, cubed |
Water | 2 1/2 cups |
Goya Sazon con Achiote | 1 packet |
Goya Sofrito | 1/2 cup |
Vegetable oil | 1 tablespoon |
Rice | 1 cup |
Instructions:
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Prepare the Rice:
- In a large heavy pot with a tight-fitting lid, combine 2 1/2 cups of water, vegetable oil, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and stir in the rice.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover with the lid, and let it cook for about 20 minutes WITHOUT LIFTING THE LID. This is crucial for perfect rice!
- After 20 minutes, remove the lid and gently fluff the rice with a large spoon, checking for doneness. If it’s not quite done, cover and cook for another 10 minutes.
- When the rice is tender and fluffy, cover again and let it sit on low heat for an additional 5-10 minutes to finish steaming. This will give you the perfect texture and flavor. π
-
Prepare the Beans:
- In a separate medium saucepan, combine the kidney beans (drained and rinsed), tomato sauce, salt, Goya Sazon con Achiote, Goya Sofrito, garlic powder, and cubed potato.
- Place the saucepan over medium-low heat and stir occasionally. Let it cook without a lid until the mixture thickens and the flavors meld beautifully, usually about 25-30 minutes. This slow simmering is key to developing those rich, deep flavors. π₯£
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Once both the rice and beans are cooked to perfection, it’s time to plate up!
- Spoon a generous serving of rice onto each plate, making a little well in the center.
- Top the rice with a hearty ladleful of the flavorful red beans mixture.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, or a dollop of tangy sour cream, if desired.
- Serve hot and savor every bite of this comforting Puerto Rican classic! π
Tips:
- For an extra kick of flavor, you can add some chopped bell peppers, onions, or even a dash of hot sauce to the beans mixture.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, try using different types of beans such as pinto beans or navy beans for a unique twist.
- Leftovers? No problem! Red Beans and Rice taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Just store in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 396.6
- Total Fat: 4.6g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 925.2mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 76.8g
- Dietary Fiber: 6.4g
- Sugars: 3.4g
- Protein: 11.2g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Red Beans and Rice dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of vibrant flavors, comforting textures, and the rich culinary heritage of Puerto Rico. With simple ingredients that pack a punch, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home. The combination of fluffy rice and hearty beans, simmered to perfection with aromatic spices, will transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of the Caribbean. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly, making it a crowd-pleaser for all! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to add a little island flair to their dining table. So gather your ingredients, put on some salsa music, and get ready to enjoy a delicious taste of Puerto Rico with every forkful! π΄π΄