The Best Homemade Rice and Beans Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade rice and beans recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s both simple and satisfying. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up, even on your busiest days. It’s packed with flavor and uses everyday ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and versatile—perfect for pairing with your favorite sides or enjoying on its own. And, let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a dish that’s comforting, filling, and totally delicious?
Recipe
Rice and beans is a simple, nutritious dish that’s a staple in many cultures. This homemade recipe is easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and perfect for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans or kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped cilantro, lime wedges, or hot sauce for serving
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Stir in the rice, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes to lightly toast the rice.
- Pour in the vegetable broth or water and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Gently fold in the drained and rinsed beans, then cover and let it sit for 5 minutes to heat through.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot. Garnish with cilantro, lime wedges, or hot sauce if desired.
Notes:
- You can use brown rice instead of white rice, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- For added flavor, consider adding diced tomatoes or bell peppers during the sautéing process.
Equipment:
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Cuisine:
Latin American / Caribbean
Serving:
4 servings
Nutrition
Rice and beans is a nutritious dish packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 58 g |
| Fiber | 8 g |
| Fat | 3 g |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my homemade rice and beans with a fresh salad, like a simple mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers, to add a cool crunch. Warm tortillas are also a must for me—they’re perfect for scooping up every last bite. Together, they make the meal feel complete and satisfying.
Fresh Salad Sides
A crisp, vibrant salad can turn a simple meal into something truly special, and it’s one of my favorite ways to brighten up rice and beans. I love tossing together a mix of greens, like spinach or romaine, with juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and a sprinkle of red onion for a bit of zing. Sometimes, I’ll add avocado for creaminess or corn for sweetness. A simple dressing of olive oil, lime juice, and a pinch of salt ties it all together. It’s invigorating, colorful, and complements the heartiness of rice and beans perfectly. Easy, healthy, and delicious!
Warm Tortilla Pairings
There’s nothing quite like wrapping up a flavorful bite of rice and beans in a warm, soft tortilla. I love heating mine on a skillet for a minute or two until they’re just flexible enough to fold without tearing. Flour tortillas are my go-to, but corn ones add a nice, earthy touch. Sometimes, I’ll spread a thin layer of guacamole or salsa inside for extra zing. Adding a sprinkle of shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream takes it over the top. It’s a simple, satisfying way to enjoy the meal, and it feels like a little hug in every bite.
