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One-Pot Cuban-Style Black Beans and Rice

A close-up of a white bowl filled with rich, saucy black beans and rice, garnished with fresh cilantro.
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Make this hearty, flavorful black beans and rice in a single pot. This recipe delivers a satisfying, budget-friendly meal perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
  • 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegan)
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/2 cup water
  • Salt to taste
  • Optional: 1/2 pound smoked sausage, sliced (for a heartier meal)
  • Optional garnish: Fresh cilantro, lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. If using sausage, add the sliced sausage now and cook until lightly browned, about 3 minutes.
  4. Stir in the rinsed rice until it is coated with the oil and spices.
  5. Add the vegetable broth, rinsed black beans, bay leaf, and water to the pot. Stir everything together.
  6. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and simmer for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Do not lift the lid during this time.
  7. Remove the pot from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
  8. Remove the bay leaf. Fluff the rice and beans gently with a fork. Taste and add salt as needed.
  9. Serve hot with fresh cilantro and lime wedges, if desired.

Notes

  • For the best results in this one-pot method, use long-grain white rice. Brown rice requires more liquid and a longer cooking time.
  • This recipe is naturally vegan if you use vegetable broth and omit the sausage. It is also a gluten free rice dish.
  • To prepare this for meal prep, cool completely before storing in airtight containers for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbyfelix.com/black-beans-and-rice-one-pot-cuban-style/