Beans and Rice is my favorite busy weeknight dinner. It’s so simple and fast to make and it is so cheap. It’s less than $1 per serving without avocado. I usually use canned black beans as a time saver but it’s even cheaper if you use dry black beans and cook them in advance. This meal is still eaten daily by millions of people.
The simplicity of beans and rice is part of what makes it so wonderful. You can eat this meal often because it can be flavored in so many different ways. I like to use my Tropical Seasoning Mix but you can add cumin and chili powder if that’s what you have on hand. You can get creative by adding curry powder, garam masala, paprika, Italian herbs, or any of your favorite herbs and spices.
This will easily become a staple food. It is filling, satisfying, warm, and hearty. I love to serve my beans and rice with fresh avocado slices to add a cool and creamy element. Don’t forget the lime wedge either. Squeeze the lime over your meal right before you eat it. The acid in the lime juice brings out other flavors and gives you a fresh component.
Beans and rice also provide many vital nutrients including all amino acids necessary to make it a complete protein. Black beans are high in fiber, protein, and a variety of other nutrients including folate, phosphorus, thiamin, and magnesium. Brown rice provides us with vitamin B6, thiamin, fiber, and is extremely high in manganese. I also top this recipe with avocado which is a great source of vitamins K, C, E, B5, and B6. Avocados are also high in good monounsaturated fatty acid and potassium.
This is a meal that everyone can benefit from adding to their life. Whether you are trying to be healthier or trying to save a few bucks, beans and rice is a winner. If you tried this recipe, let me know in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe to get new posts directly to your inbox.
This beans and rice recipe is easy and affordable, making it the perfect staple meal.
- 1 cup parboiled brown rice
- 1 15 oz can or 1 1/2 cups cooked black beans
- 1/4 cup liquid from can or bean cooking liquid
- 1/2 cup onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp tropical seasoning*
- 2 tbsp cilantro chopped
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 lime cut into wedges
- 1 avocado sliced
Cook your rice according to package directions. Mine cooks for 12-15 minutes.
In a large skillet, over medium heat, add onions and sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and sauté for another minute.
Add cooked rice, black beans, bean liquid, tropical seasoning, cilantro, and salt and pepper. Stir everything together and let cook for 5 minutes, stirring often. Taste and add more seasoning if desired.
Serve topped with avocado slices and the lime wedges on the side. Garnish with additional cilantro. Enjoy!
For the tropical seasoning mix you can use a store-bought variety or make your own.
Yummy Gallo Pinto! Makes me want to go back to Costa Rica!
I’m munching on my beans’n’rice right now and it’s completely delicious and I LOVE the seasoning!
Believe it or not this is my first time i’ve cooked rice and beans and i’m totally hooked. Definitely will become a part of my weeknight cooking routine.
I’m glad you enjoyed the recipe!