Delicious Spanish Rice And Beans

Hey there, folks! I've got something delicious to share with you today: Spanish rice and beans. This flavorful dish is a favourite among vegetarians and vegans, and trust me, it'll make your taste buds do a happy dance. And it is SOOOO simple and quick to make, great for all those Busy Ladies.

All you need are some basic ingredients like rice, tomatoes, and beans. You can use kidney beans, pinto beans, or black beans - whatever tickles your fancy. To take the flavour up a notch, you can throw in some roasted red peppers and adobo sauce made from chipotle peppers. Sounds good, right?

This dish is bursting with vibrant colors and bold flavors that will transport you straight to Spain. The rice is cooked with tomatoes, giving it a beautiful red color, while the beans add a creamy and hearty texture. The onions are sautéed to bring out their natural sweetness, and the adobo sauce adds a savory and smoky taste that complements the dish perfectly.

The roasted red peppers add a tangy zing, and the cilantro gives it a refreshing herbal note. This dish is not only delicious, but it's also vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free, making it a great option for anyone with dietary restrictions.

Whether you're serving it as a main course or a side dish, Spanish rice and beans is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

So, grab your apron and get ready to whip up some Spanish rice and beans that'll transport you straight to Espania. Let's get cooking!

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve as a main dish: Spanish rice and beans can be enjoyed as a filling and nutritious main course. It can be served with avocado slices, a dollop of sour cream or vegan yogurt, and a side of tortilla chips.
  • Stuff into burritos or tacos: Use the Spanish rice and beans as a flavorful filling for burritos or tacos. Top with your favorite toppings such as salsa, guacamole, and shredded cheese or vegan cheese.
  • Pair with grilled vegetables: Serve the Spanish rice and beans alongside a variety of grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant. This creates a well-balanced and colorful meal.
  • Add to salads: Use the Spanish rice and beans as a protein-rich topping for salads. Combine with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
  • Make a rice bowl: Create a rice bowl by layering the Spanish rice and beans with sautéed vegetables, sliced avocado, and a drizzle of lime juice. Top with fresh cilantro and enjoy a wholesome and filling meal.

Ingredients needed:

  • 1/2 medium white onion (1 cup finely diced)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 250 grams of medium or long grain white rice
  • 400 grams of salsa
  • 1 teaspoon adobo sauce from a can of chipotle peppers
  • 750 ml vegetable broth
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 400 grams of beans (kidney, pinto, or black beans), drained and rinsed
  • 150 grams of chopped roasted red peppers from a jar
  • 80 grams chopped coriander

Cooking Instructions:

  • Finely dice the onion.
  • Using a large saucepan, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Then add the onion and saute for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent. Add the rice to the pan and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender. Add the salsa, the adobo sauce, the broth, and the rock salt to the pan.
  • Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and continue to simmer for 20 minutes until all of the liquid is evaporated, and then remove the lid. After you remove the pan from the heat, allow it to steam for five minutes before removing it from the heat.
  • With a fork, fluff the rice. Then stir in the beans (drained and rinsed), red peppers (chopped) and coriander leaves (chopped). The dish should be served as soon as possible.

Benefits of the Ingredients:

  • Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer. They are also a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as potassium and folate.
  • Beans are a great source of plant-based protein and are high in fiber, which can help promote a healthy digestive system and support weight management. They are also rich in iron, folate, and other essential nutrients.
  • Onions contain antioxidants and sulfur compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. They are also a good source of vitamin C, fiber, and other nutrients.
  • Red peppers are packed with vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and promote healthy skin. They also contain antioxidants such as beta-carotene and lycopene, which have been associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases.
  • Cilantro is a herb that is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Cilantro is also believed to have detoxifying effects and may help lower cholesterol levels.

Top Tips:

  • When cooking and serving this dish, it's important to consider some tips to enhance the flavours and presentation.
  • First, make sure to fluff the cooked rice with a fork to separate the grains and give it a light and fluffy texture. This will make each bite of the Spanish rice and beans more enjoyable.
  • Additionally, when stirring in the beans, roasted red peppers, and coriander leaves, do it gently to avoid mashing the ingredients and maintain their individual flavors and textures. This will create a beautiful and vibrant dish.
  • To elevate the presentation, consider garnishing with a sprig of fresh coriander or a squeeze of lime juice. The brightness of the herbs and citrus will add a fresh and vibrant touch to the dish.
  • Finally, serve the Spanish rice and beans immediately while it's still hot to fully enjoy the flavours and aromas.