Black Beans And Rice: The Ultimate Black Beans And Rice With Sausage Recipe
Introduction to Black Beans And Rice
Black Beans and Rice with Sausage is a comforting dish that embodies the heart of home cooking. Combining the rich flavors of smoked sausage, tender black beans, and fluffy rice, this one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also packs a nutritious punch, making it a favorite among families. Whether you’re looking to fill your belly or impress your guests, this dish is sure to satisfy!
A Personal Story Behind My Black Beans And Rice Journey
Growing up, my family cherished the warmth of shared meals, and Black Beans and Rice with Sausage was a staple at our dinner table. My grandmother made it every Sunday, and the aroma would fill the house, drawing us all in. Each bite brought back memories of laughter and love, making it more than just a meal—it’s a story. As I learned to cook, I realized that this recipe carried on the tradition of bringing people together, and I hope it does the same for you.
What Makes This Black Beans And Rice Recipe Special?
This Black Beans and Rice with Sausage recipe stands out for several reasons. Firstly, it’s a one-pan wonder, meaning fewer dishes to clean up afterward! The smoked sausage adds depth and richness, while the spices—cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder—infuse the dish with warmth and flavor. Plus, the addition of black beans not only enhances the taste but also adds fiber and protein, making this a balanced meal. And let’s not forget the vibrant garnish of fresh cilantro and lime, which brightens up each serving.
The Full Black Beans And Rice Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 ounces smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth, low sodium preferred
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- 1 lime, cut into wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure even browning!
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add Spices and Rice: Stir in cumin, paprika, oregano, and chili powder. Add rice and toast it for 1–2 minutes to enhance its nutty flavor. Tip: Stir frequently to prevent the rice from sticking.
- Combine and Simmer: Add black beans, broth, and the cooked sausage back into the pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.
- Fluff and Finish: Remove from heat. Let it rest for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork. Garnish with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Black Beans And Rice
This dish is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it further! Serve it with sliced avocado for a creamy texture, or add a dollop of sour cream for richness. For those seeking a bit of heat, consider sprinkling in some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes during cooking. You might also try adding corn or diced tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. And don’t forget the lime wedges—they add a refreshing zing!
Frequently Asked Questions About Black Beans And Rice
Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Absolutely! Simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra flavor.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I freeze this dish? Yes, this Black Beans and Rice with Sausage freezes well. After cooking, let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
What can I serve with this dish? This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or tortilla chips. You might also enjoy it alongside grilled vegetables or a fresh salsa for a complete meal.
Enjoy the smoky flavors and hearty goodness of this easy one-pan meal!
Recipe Stats
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories per Serving: 380
Servings: 4
Black Beans and Rice with Sausage
Equipment
- Large skillet or Dutch oven Used for cooking the entire dish in one pan.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 ounces smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 medium bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
- 0.5 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 15 ounces black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth, low sodium preferred
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 0.25 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- 1 lime cut into wedges, for serving
Instructions
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure even browning!
- In the same pot, add diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in cumin, paprika, oregano, and chili powder. Add rice and toast it for 1–2 minutes to enhance its nutty flavor. Tip: Stir frequently to prevent the rice from sticking.
- Add black beans, broth, and the cooked sausage back into the pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.
- Remove from heat. Let it rest for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork. Garnish with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.