Elevate your weeknight meals with this hearty and flavorful Black Beans and Brown Rice recipe—a wholesome combination of nutty, tender brown rice and protein-rich black beans, perfectly seasoned with cumin, chili powder, and paprika. This simple, one-skillet dish is packed with fresh aromatics like sautéed onion, garlic, and a bright pop of cilantro and lime for a zesty finish. Ready in under an hour, this budget-friendly recipe is ideal as a nutritious main course or satisfying side dish. Customize it with optional toppings like creamy avocado, tangy salsa, or melted cheese for a personal touch. Perfect for vegetarian and gluten-free diets, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition.
Rinse the brown rice thoroughly under cold water.
In a medium saucepan, combine the brown rice and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and set aside, keeping it covered.
While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Add the cooked or canned black beans to the skillet, followed by the ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Once the rice is cooked, add it to the skillet with the seasoned black beans. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to mix the flavors.
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped fresh cilantro and lime juice.
Serve warm as a main dish or side. Optionally, top with diced avocado, salsa, or shredded cheese for added flavor.
Calories |
1022 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 39.9 g | 51% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.3 g | 32% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 3325 mg | 145% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 135.5 g | 49% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 37.1 g | 132% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.9 g | ||
| Protein | 35.8 g | 72% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 280 mg | 22% | |
| Iron | 11.8 mg | 66% | |
| Potassium | 1614 mg | 34% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.