Black beans and rice. It's the perfect meal that's endlessly customizable, incredibly filling, and packed with protein and fiber. Whether you call it arroz con frijoles, gallo pinto, rice and beans, or just "dinner when the fridge is empty," this simple combo has fed families for many generations. In this post, I'm sharing my easy recipe to help you make the best black beans and rice at home.

Black beans and rice | Moros con cristianos served in a plate with fried plantains.

Moros y Cristianos - Black Beans and Rice

Black Beans and Rice, or Moros y Cristianos, is a popular side dish in some areas of the state of Veracruz and in other parts of southern Mexico. It represents one of the many Cuban influences in our Mexican gastronomy, especially in Veracruz, where it is often served with fried plantains. The original version is made by cooking the rice along with the beans, but I usually prepare it when I have some leftover steamed rice.

This meal is also known by other names, including " black beans and rice " and "Casamiento". "Casamiento" means "marriage"; I guess it refers to the marriage of rice and beans, or to Spanish culture coming to the New World. Black Beans and Rice are normally a side dish and an excellent complement to pork chops or grilled meats, but I think they make a tasty treat on their own. Just add fried plantains and avocado (or guacamole), and you will have a great meal.

Today I'm sharing the one meal I make when I want something cozy, satisfying, and full of flavor, made with minimal effort and ingredients already in my pantry. Let's get into it!

How to Make Black Beans and Rice

Ingredients

Here is a list of ingredients you'll need to make this recipe.

Vegetable oil, olive oil, or lard
White onion, finely diced
Garlic clove, minced
Cooked black beans
Black bean broth
Cooked rice
Mexican oregano
Ground cumin (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste

Ingredients in a table such as cooked beans, bean broth, cooked rice, onion, garlic, Mexican oregano, cumin, and salt and pepper.

Instructions:

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Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the onion and minced garlic, and sauté for a couple of minutes, until the onion is translucent. (Please check the ingredients list below.)

Add the beans and cook for about 2 more minutes, allowing them to absorb some of the onion's flavors.

Cooking sautéed chopped onions and garlic with black beans in a cast iron pot.

Stir in the cooked rice and pour the bean liquid into the skillet.

Cooking sautéed chopped onions and garlic with black beans, and rice in a cast iron pot.

Keep cooking for about 5 minutes, until everything is hot. Season with salt and add oregano and cumin (if using)

Enjoy!

-Mely Martínez,

Notes and Tips for Making Black Beans and Rice

As mentioned above, this version is prepared using already-cooked white rice. For this recipe, long-grain white rice is used to achieve the fluffy texture. Small-grain rice tends to have higher starch content, which can make it mushy.
For a different option of cooking the rice, instead of steaming, visit the Mexican white rice recipe for all of the ingredients and instructions.
Try using American long-grain rice, as it is more neutral, instead of basmati or jasmine, which are more fragrant. Brown rice can also be used, but takes a little longer to cook (40-50 minutes)
You can always add your favorite spices, such as cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, chili powder, or cayenne.
Don't forget that this recipe tastes even better when served with a side dish of creamy guacamole and fried plantains.

What to Serve with Black Beans and Rice

This budget-friendly recipe is a great side dish and pairs well with any protein, such as pork, grilled chicken, or even eggs. It can also be part of your favorite burrito filling or a meatless meal. Just add a few slices of fried plantains and a delicious creamy guacamole, a few lime wedges, and fresh cilantro. Black beans are very versatile and can be an excellent option that your whole family will love.

More Authentic Mexican Recipes

If you enjoyed this recipe, take a look at some of these other easy recipes:

How to make flour tortillas (español), Tortillas de harina.

I hope you make flour tortillas! If this recipe was helpful to you, come back and let me know how it went. Please leave us a comment below and tell us all about it!

¡Buen provecho!

-Mely

Dishes you can Make using Black Beans

Frequently Asked Questions about Beans and Rice

Here are some of the questions I usually get about this recipe, along with my answers. If you have a question and you don't see it below, please send it my way so I can help you get your answer.

Can I use canned beans instead of dry beans?

Yes! Canned beans are a great time-saver; just make sure you choose a brand with enough liquid for this recipe. Use about 1-2 cans to replace 1 cup of cooked beans.

What type of beans work best?

The best beans for this recipe are home-cooked beans. If you have never cooked beans before, just check out a few of my recipes to try at home.

Is beans and rice healthy?

This recipe is an excellent source of protein, complex carbs, fiber, and minerals. It is a nutritious meal, especially for vegetarians and vegans. Make sure to reduce the amount of oil or lard for a healthier option.

Are black beans and rice vegetarian or vegan?

This recipe is naturally vegan if you skip the lard. Use olive or vegetable oil, and stick to the bean broth to keep the recipe completely vegan.

Why is my rice mushy?

Mushy rice usually means too much liquid or the lid was lifted too often while cooking. Follow the instructions on the rice package, and resist the urge to stir or peek while it simmers.

How do I store leftover black beans and rice?

Let the leftovers cool completely and store them in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place in a pan and add a little bean broth or water, then heat over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave for 3-4 minutes.

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Comments

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Black Beans and Rice