Cuban Rice and Beans Recipe
Overview
Experience the vibrant flavors of Cuba with this delightful Cuban Rice and Beans recipe, perfect for breakfast or any meal of the day. This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, offering a healthy balance of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Whether you’re preparing a meal for your family or bringing a dish to a potluck, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich, savory flavors and hearty ingredients.
Recipe Details
- Name: Cuban Rice and Beans
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Description: Make and share this Cuban Rice and Beans recipe from lovewithrecipes.com.
- Recipe Category: Breakfast
- Keywords: Rice, Black Beans, Beans, Vegetable, Cuban, Caribbean, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Potluck, Spicy, < 60 Mins, Oven, Stove Top
Ingredients
The ingredients listed below contribute to the distinctive Cuban flavors in this dish. The combination of bacon, black beans, and Mexican-style tomatoes creates a savory base, while the thyme adds a subtle herbal note. This recipe is also flexible, allowing you to adjust the quantities to suit your needs.
- 6 slices of bacon
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 15 ounces black beans, drained and rinsed
- 14 1/2 ounces Mexican-style tomatoes, undrained
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- 1 cup uncooked brown rice
Nutritional Information
This Cuban Rice and Beans recipe is not only flavorful but also offers a balanced nutritional profile. Each serving is packed with fiber and protein, making it a healthy option for any meal.
- Calories: 158.5 per serving
- Fat Content: 0.9g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0.2g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 419.2mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 32.4g
- Fiber Content: 10.4g
- Sugar Content: 0.9g
- Protein Content: 9.1g
- Servings: 4 (1/2 cup each)
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create this delicious Cuban Rice and Beans dish. The process is straightforward, making it accessible even for novice cooks.
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Cook the Bacon:
- In a 10-inch pan, cook the bacon over medium heat for 8-10 minutes until crisp.
- Remove the bacon from the pan, reserving 1 teaspoon of the bacon drippings.
- Crumble the bacon and set it aside.
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Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet used to cook the bacon, add the green pepper and chopped onion to the bacon drippings.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
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Combine Ingredients:
- Stir in the crumbled bacon, black beans, Mexican-style tomatoes, and thyme leaves.
- Continue cooking the mixture until the liquid is reduced and the sauce thickens, which should take about 10-15 minutes.
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Cook the Rice:
- Meanwhile, cook the brown rice according to the package directions for 4 servings.
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Serve:
- Serve the black bean mixture over the cooked rice.
- This recipe makes 4 servings of 1/2 cup each.
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Adjust for Larger Quantities:
- Adjust the amounts of each ingredient as necessary to make more for functions and gatherings.
Tips for Success
- Bacon Alternatives: If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can omit the bacon and use a tablespoon of olive oil or a vegetarian bacon substitute to maintain the smoky flavor.
- Spice Level: Adjust the black pepper and add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce if you prefer a spicier dish.
- Fresh Herbs: While dried thyme works well, using fresh thyme can enhance the flavor. Use about 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with a side of fried plantains or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Cultural Significance
Cuban Rice and Beans, also known as “Moros y Cristianos,” is a traditional dish in Cuban cuisine. The name translates to “Moors and Christians,” referring to the historical coexistence of African and Spanish cultures in Cuba. This dish is a staple in many Cuban households and is often enjoyed as a comforting and hearty meal. The combination of rice and beans provides a complete protein, making it a nutritious choice for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
Variations and Customizations
- Vegetable Additions: Add diced bell peppers, corn, or zucchini to the vegetable mix for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Protein Boost: For added protein, consider mixing in cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Cheese Topping: Sprinkle with crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheddar cheese before serving for a creamy finish.
- Cilantro Garnish: Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice to brighten the flavors.
Conclusion
Cuban Rice and Beans is a versatile and flavorful dish that brings a taste of the Caribbean to your table. Its simplicity and rich flavors make it a favorite for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The combination of black beans, bacon, and tomatoes creates a hearty and satisfying meal that is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy this dish as part of a healthy diet, and feel free to experiment with different ingredients and variations to make it your own. Happy cooking!
