Prepare to transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Cuba with Arroz Moro, a mouthwatering rice and black beans dish that's more than just a meal - it's a culinary journey! This beloved Cuban classic combines simple ingredients into a symphony of flavors that will make your dinner table come alive with authentic Caribbean zest. Whether you're a food adventurer or just craving something deliciously different, this recipe promises to turn an ordinary evening into an extraordinary dining experience.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Cuban
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups rice
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain completely.
- Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onions and bell peppers, sautéing until the vegetables become soft and translucent, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the aromatic flavors.
- Pour in the drained black beans and stir to combine with the sautéed vegetables, allowing them to warm through for 1-2 minutes.
- Add the rinsed rice to the pot, stirring to coat the rice with the vegetable and bean mixture.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring all rice is submerged. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a full boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 18-20 minutes.
- After cooking time, remove from heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5-7 minutes to allow steam to finish cooking the rice.
- Fluff the rice gently with a fork, mixing the beans and rice together, and serve hot.
Tips
- Rice Rinsing is Key: Always rinse your rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, ensuring fluffy, separated grains.
- Low and Slow Cooking: Use low heat when simmering to prevent burning and allow the rice to absorb liquid evenly.
- Don't Peek Too Much: Keep the lid on while cooking to trap steam and ensure proper rice hydration.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh garlic and recently chopped vegetables for maximum flavor impact.
- Let it Rest: The 5-7 minute resting period after cooking is crucial for achieving perfect rice texture.
- Optional Enhancements: Consider adding a bay leaf or a splash of cumin for extra depth of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
