Cuban Black Beans and Rice Recipe
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 9 hours
Total Time: 9 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 12
Description:
Indulge in the flavors of the Caribbean with this hearty and wholesome Cuban Black Beans and Rice recipe! Slow-cooked to perfection, these tender black beans are infused with aromatic spices and vegetables, creating a delightful vegan dish that’s both nutritious and budget-friendly. Serve over fluffy rice for a satisfying one-dish meal that will transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of Cuba!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried black beans, soaked overnight
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 5 cups water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup rice
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Soak beans overnight: Begin by soaking the dried black beans in water overnight to soften them and reduce cooking time. This step helps ensure that the beans cook evenly and become tender. |
| 2 | Combine ingredients in slow cooker: In the morning, drain and rinse the soaked black beans. In a slow cooker, combine the black beans, chopped onion, diced bell pepper, minced garlic, bay leaves, diced tomatoes, water, olive oil, ground cumin, and salt. Stir well to mix all the ingredients together. |
| 3 | Slow cook until tender: Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook the bean mixture for 6 to 8 hours, or until the beans are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in rich and savory black beans. |
| 4 | Remove bay leaves: Once the beans are cooked to perfection, carefully remove the bay leaves from the mixture. These aromatic leaves impart a subtle flavor during cooking but are not meant to be eaten. Discard them before serving. |
| 5 | Serve over rice: To serve, spoon the flavorful Cuban black beans over a bed of fluffy rice. The combination of tender beans and fluffy rice creates a satisfying and wholesome meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced avocado for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy the taste of the Caribbean right in your own kitchen! |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 344.1
- Fat Content: 3.2g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0.6g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 273.6mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 66.9g
- Fiber Content: 7.4g
- Sugar Content: 3g
- Protein Content: 12g
Keywords:
Black Beans, Beans, Caribbean, Vegan, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Inexpensive
Tips for Success:
- Use high-quality ingredients: Opt for good-quality dried black beans and fresh vegetables to enhance the flavor of this dish.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt and spices according to your personal preference. You can add more cumin for extra warmth or a pinch of chili powder for a spicy kick.
- Serve with toppings: Enhance the flavor and texture of the dish by serving with toppings such as chopped fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or a squeeze of lime juice.
- Store leftovers properly: Store any leftover Cuban Black Beans and Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Conclusion:
With its rich flavors, hearty texture, and wholesome ingredients, this Cuban Black Beans and Rice recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re craving a comforting weeknight meal or planning a festive Caribbean-themed dinner party, this dish is a delicious and satisfying option. Soak the beans overnight, let them simmer in the slow cooker, and savor the taste of the tropics with every bite! 🌴🍲
