Hearty Black Beans and Rice 🌱🍚

This nourishing dish is a delightful one-pot wonder that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Packed with protein and fiber, it's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a meal prep option. Plus, it’s entirely customizable; you can adjust the spices to match your taste preferences or add vegetables for extra nutrition. Serve it as a main dish or a side, and enjoy the rich flavors with your favorite toppings!

Ingredients

For the dish

• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3/4 cup uncooked white rice
• 1 1/2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 3 1/2 cups canned black beans, drained

Instructions

1. In a stockpot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

🧄 Aromatics are key! Don’t skip this step, as it builds a flavorful base for your dish.

3. Stir in the uncooked rice, sautéing for an additional 2 minutes to toast it slightly.

4. Pour in the vegetable broth, bring the mixture to a boil.

5. Once boiling, cover the pot, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

6. After the rice is cooked, add the cumin, cayenne pepper, and black beans, stirring well to combine.

🌶️ For extra flair, feel free to add a splash of lime juice or some chopped cilantro to brighten up the flavors!

Variations

• Vegetable Boost: Add bell peppers, corn, or spinach to the pot when you add the black beans for extra color and nutrients.
• Spicy Kick: If you're a heat lover, increase the cayenne or add some diced jalapeños for fiery flavor.
• Creamy Option: Stir in some Greek yogurt or a bit of sour cream just before serving for a luscious, creamy finish.
• Vegan: This dish is already plant-based! Pair it with avocado slices or guacamole for a creamy texture and healthy fats.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your black beans and rice with toppings like diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, or even a fresh avocado. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or tortilla chips for crunch. Enjoy wholesome goodness in every bite! 🌮✨