Print

Easy One-Skillet Mexican Rice and Beans Recipe with Homemade Flavor

one-skillet mexican rice and beans recipe - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and comforting one-skillet Mexican rice and beans dish that layers bold flavors with simple pantry staples, perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (190g) long-grain white rice
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425g) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable or olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 cups (475ml) chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • Juice of half a fresh lime
  • A handful fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Drain well. (5 minutes)
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking. (2 minutes)
  3. Add the finely chopped onion and cook, stirring often, until translucent and soft, about 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and stir for another 30 seconds until fragrant. (6 minutes total)
  4. Add the rinsed rice to the skillet. Stir constantly to coat every grain in oil and cook until the rice turns golden and smells nutty, about 3-4 minutes. (4 minutes)
  5. Stir in tomato paste, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring to deepen flavors. (2 minutes)
  6. Pour in broth and add drained black beans. Stir gently to combine. (1 minute)
  7. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover with lid. Simmer gently for 18-20 minutes without lifting the lid. (20 minutes)
  8. Remove skillet from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes to fluff rice and settle flavors. (5 minutes)
  9. Fluff rice and beans with a fork. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top and sprinkle with chopped cilantro if desired. Adjust salt to taste. (2 minutes)

Notes

Do not skip toasting the rice as it adds a nutty flavor and better texture. Avoid high heat when simmering to prevent burning or drying out. Use warm broth to avoid shocking the rice. Let the rice rest covered after cooking for fluffier grains. If rice is not tender after simmering, add a splash more broth and cook a few minutes longer. Stir gently and avoid stirring during simmering to prevent mushy rice.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican rice and beans, one skillet recipe, easy dinner, quick Mexican meal, vegetarian, gluten-free, comfort food

Find it online: https://fizzlefork.com/easy-one-skillet-mexican-rice-and-beans-recipe-with-homemade-flavor/