Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with a dish that's bursting with flavor and soul! Our Cajun Black Beans and Rice is not just a meal; it's a culinary journey straight to the heart of Louisiana. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a hearty, satisfying dish that serves four, making it perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in. With the perfect blend of aromatic spices, tender rice, and protein-packed black beans, this recipe promises to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Don’t miss out on this delightful fusion of flavors—read on to discover how to make this irresistible Cajun classic!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Cajun
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients: 1 cup of long-grain rice, 2 cups of vegetable broth, 1 can of black beans (drained and rinsed), 1 diced bell pepper, 1 diced onion, 2 minced cloves of garlic, 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, salt and pepper to taste, and green onions for garnish.
- In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of vegetable broth to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once the broth is boiling, add 1 cup of long-grain rice. Stir briefly to prevent sticking, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a lid and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes.
- While the rice is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of oil if desired, then add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Stir in the drained and rinsed black beans and the Cajun seasoning. Mix well to combine and heat through, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the rice is done resting, fluff it with a fork and then combine it with the black bean mixture in the skillet. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly mixed and heated through.
- Serve the Cajun black beans and rice hot, garnished with sliced green onions for a fresh touch.
Tips
- Choose the Right Rice: Long-grain rice works best for this recipe, as it stays fluffy and separate. Avoid using short-grain rice, which can become sticky.
- Vegetable Broth Matters: For maximum flavor, use a high-quality vegetable broth. Homemade broth or low-sodium options can enhance the taste without overwhelming the dish.
- Customize Your Spice Level: If you love heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the black bean mixture for an extra kick.
- Sautéing Technique: Make sure to sauté the onions and bell peppers until they are soft and slightly caramelized to bring out their natural sweetness, which balances the spices beautifully.
- Garnish for Freshness: Don’t skip the green onions! They add a fresh crunch that complements the richness of the dish and makes it visually appealing.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is great for meal prep! You can make a larger batch and store it in the fridge for up to three days or freeze portions for a quick meal later.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your Cajun Black Beans and Rice with a side of cornbread or a simple green salad to round out the meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 62g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
