Rice & Beans Recipe

Rinse rice

Place the rice in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear (about 30–60 seconds). This removes surface starch and prevents gummy rice.

Combine and bring to a boil

In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, 3.5 cups water, 1 tsp kosher salt and 1 tbsp butter. Stir once to distribute, then bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, uncovered.

Simmer gently

Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer undisturbed for 15 minutes. Do not lift the lid while it cooks.

Rest and fluff

After 15 minutes, remove the pan from heat and let it rest, covered, for 10 minutes. Remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Keep covered and warm until serving.

Prepare aromatics

While the rice cooks or rests, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and a pinch of salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 4–5 minutes.

Add garlic and spices

Add the minced garlic, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika and 1/2 tsp dried oregano to the skillet. Cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute (avoid letting the garlic brown).

Add beans and simmer

Stir in the drained and rinsed black beans and 1/4 cup broth (or water). Gently mash about one-third of the beans with the back of a spoon to create a creamy texture while leaving some whole beans for bite. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is heated through and slightly thickened.

Finish beans

Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in 1 tbsp fresh lime juice, 2 tbsp chopped cilantro, 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste) and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, lime, or spices as desired.

Divide the fluffed rice among 4 plates (about 1/2 cup cooked rice per serving if making 4 servings; see servings below). Spoon the warm seasoned beans over or beside the rice.

Garnish each plate with lime wedges, a dollop of sour cream or yogurt if using, and a sprinkle of sliced scallion or extra cilantro. Serve immediately with hot sauce on the side if desired.