Spanish Rice and Beans

Spanish Rice and Beans is a classic, flavorful dish that combines hearty rice, savory beans, and a delicious mix of spices. This one-pot meal is both easy to make and filling, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish for larger meals. The combination of tomatoes, garlic, and cumin gives it a delicious depth of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Spanish Rice and Beans Recipe

• Hearty and Satisfying: A comforting, plant-based meal full of protein and fiber.
• Easy One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup with just a single skillet or saucepan.
• Bursting with Flavor: A blend of spices and tomatoes creates a rich, savory dish.
• Great for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day and can be made in advance.

Ingredients for Spanish Rice and Beans

To make this dish, you’ll need:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
• 1 ½ cups vegetable broth (or water)
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, black beans, or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
• ½ cup tomato sauce
• ½ onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or saucepan with a lid
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Knife and cutting board for chopping ingredients

How to Make Spanish Rice and Beans

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and bell peppers, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

1. Add the rice to the skillet and stir it for about 2 minutes to lightly toast it.
2. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, and vegetable broth.
3. Add the smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes (or until the rice is tender).

Step 3: Add the Beans

1. Once the rice is cooked, gently fold in the drained beans.
2. Cover and let it cook for another 5 minutes so the beans can warm through and absorb the flavors.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the skillet from heat and fluff the rice with a fork.
2. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a main dish with a side of avocado, plantains, or a fresh salad.
• Pair with grilled chicken, shrimp, or a fried egg for added protein.
• Use as a filling for burritos, tacos, or stuffed bell peppers.

Tips for the Best Spanish Rice and Beans

• Rinse the Rice: Rinsing the rice before cooking removes excess starch and helps keep it from becoming too sticky or mushy.
• Use Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: For a deeper, smoky flavor, try using fire-roasted diced tomatoes.
• Add Heat: If you enjoy a spicier dish, consider adding red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the mix.
• Make it Creamy: Stir in a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt right before serving for a creamy texture.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Warm the dish in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
• Freeze: Let it cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice. However, you’ll need to increase the cooking time to about 40 minutes and may need to add extra broth or water.

What other beans can I use?
You can use black beans, pinto beans, or any variety you prefer. You can even mix different types of beans for variety.

Can I make this in a rice cooker?
Yes! If you have a rice cooker, you can sauté the vegetables first, then add the rice, broth, spices, and beans, and cook everything on the regular rice setting.

Conclusion: A Flavorful, Hearty Meal

Spanish Rice and Beans is an easy, one-pot dish that brings bold, savory flavors to your table. Whether you serve it as a main course or a side, it’s a filling, satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: Spanish, Latin

Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 320
Protein: 9g
Carbohydrates: 58g
Fat: 5g
Fiber: 8g

Give this recipe a try today for a quick, flavorful meal that’s both comforting and nourishing!

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