Easy Rice Recipe - Cuban Black Beans and Brown Rice

Cuba is the largest island in the Caribbean but it has been isolated by its neighbour to the North due to its political ideology. Cuban cuisine is a mixture of Spanish and African cultures. There are dishes such as Moros y Cristianos (Moors and Christians; black beans and rice), arroz con pollo (chicken and rice) and picadillo (minced beef and rice) are common. There are also soups made with plantains, chick peas or beans. Cuba also produces a beer (Cerveza), which is an excellent drink.

Cuban cuisine likes to use more citrus flavors and marinades. Many traditional Cuban recipes use a tomato sauce base with oregano and cumin. Many limes are used for extra flavoring. This easy rice recipe will go a long way in explaining the Cuban culture. The black beans are wonderfully healthy and the blending of onions, garlic, green peppers and the chile will make an explosive mix. It is easy to make. This rice recipe should take no longer than 15 to 30 minutes to make. Simple. Easy. Packed with healthy ingredients. LIght on the wallet. A great combination!

Cuban Black Beans and Brown Rice

Makes 4 Servings

1 cup brown rice

3 cups low-sodium chicken broth, divided

1 tbsp. olive oil

2 bay leaves, divided

1 can (19 oz.) low-sodium black beans, drained

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 cup diced Spanish onion

1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper

1 serrano chile, stemmed, seeded and finely chopped

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1. Place rice in heavy, medium-size saucepan with tight-fitting lid. Add 2 cups broth (or substitute with water), olive oil and 1 bay leaf, place over high heat and bring to boil.

2. Stir once and cover, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 45 minutes. While rice is cooking, drain beans and set aside. Spray medium saucepan with nonstick cooking spray and place over medium heat.

3. Add garlic and onion and sauté until onion begins to soften. Add bell pepper, remaining bay leaf and 1 cup broth. Simmer about 5 minutes, until vegetables are tender.

4. Add drained beans and chile and continue cooking about 10 minutes, until broth reduces and beans are heated through. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

5. Remove from heat and cover to keep warm until brown rice finishes cooking. Remove rice from heat and let stand for 10 minutes. Spoon beans over rice and serve immediately.

I hope you will enjoy this easy rice recipe. Be sure to visit our web site for more easy rice recipes and other wonderful food creation ideas and practical meal preparation tips.