Jul 14 2026
Restaurants›Sabor de Cuba›Congri Recipe

Congri Recipe

Inspired by Sabor de Cuba
Time1h
Serves6

White rice and black beans cooked together with ham hock and applewood bacon

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Ingredients

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Rice and Beans

Seasoning

Method

Preparation

  1. 1

    Prepare the Ingredients

    Rinse the black beans under cold water, then soak them in water overnight or for at least 6 hours. Chop the onion, garlic, and bell pepper into small pieces. Cut the applewood bacon into small pieces.

Cooking

  1. 2

    Cook the Bacon and Aromatics

    In a large pot over medium heat, add the chopped applewood bacon. Cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the fat in the pot. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.

  2. 3

    Add Ham Hock and Beans

    Add the ham hock to the pot, followed by the soaked black beans (drain them before adding). Stir to combine with the vegetables.

  3. 4

    Season the Mixture

    Sprinkle in the cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and add the bay leaf. Pour in the chicken broth and stir well. Bring the mixture to a boil.

  4. 5

    Add Rice

    Once the pot is boiling, add the white rice and stir. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

  5. 6

    Finish the Dish

    After the rice is cooked, remove the ham hock and bay leaf. Shred the meat from the ham hock, discarding the bone and any excess fat. Stir the shredded ham back into the rice and beans mixture. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

  6. 7

    Serve

    Serve hot, garnished with the crispy bacon on top. Enjoy your Congri!

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