Red Rice and Beans Recipe (2024)

Feb 6, 2024 by Tania Sheff · This post may contain affiliate links

This is THE ONLYRice and Beansrecipe you'll ever need! Made with simple ingredients, this dish is filling and very tasty.

I’ve tried so many variations of Rice and Beans, and this one is the winner! It makes an amazing side dish or a satisfying meal. I honestly can’t wait for you to try it! Made with pantry staples that are available at any grocery store, it's so simple and easy.

I make this hearty Rice and Beans every week, and my heart tells me so will you. This dish will become a favorite thing to serve in your house. 🙂 Let’s not lose any time and get straight to the basics.

Red Rice and Beans video tutorial

What kind of rice is best for Rice and Beans?

It is best to uselong-grain white or brown ricein this recipe. I use Organic Brown Rice because I enjoy the flavor, and it is healthier as well, but white rice is fine, too. White basmati rice and jasmine rice would also work well. Whichever rice you choose, read the suggested cooking time and water-to-rice ratio, and adjust this recipe accordingly.

Love beans? Try thisMexican Pinto Beansrecipe.

About the beans

I useorganic black beansand I suggest you follow my lead. Red beans or kidney beans can also be used instead. You can buy canned beans or cook them yourself. If you buy canned black beans, don’t forget to rinse them before adding them to the pot. If you decide to cook the black beans yourself, follow these handy instructions:How To Cook Black Beans.

Main ingredients

• Vegetable Broth.I use fully seasoned vegetable broth. If you use low-sodium broth or water instead, you may need to add some salt & black pepper. You can also use chicken broth if you like.
• Ground Cumin.This can be found in most grocery stores andonline.
• Red Pepper Flakes.Adjust the quantity to suit your taste buds. Or use hot sauce instead.
• Diced Tomatoes.I recommend using organic, canned diced tomatoes. You can also use tomato sauce if you have no diced tomatoes.

How to make Rice and Beans

1. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or skillet, sauté the onion in olive oil for about 3-5 minutes over medium heat. Add the bell pepper and cook for another 3-4 minutes.

2. Add the garlic, cumin, and red pepper flakes. Cook for a minute.

3. Add the diced tomatoes and keep cooking, stirring occasionally for 5 minutes.

4. At this point, add the rice and veggie broth. Stir everything well and bring to a boil. Cover with a tight lid, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for about 45 minutes,* or until the rice is cooked through.

5. Stir in the black beans and cilantro. Let it rest for 5 minutes. Serve.

* Cooking time may vary depending on the kind of rice used. Follow the instructions on the rice package to get an accurate cooking time.

Add-ins and substitutions

• Add other seasonings.Try this recipe with bay leaves, cayenne pepper, sweet paprika, Italian seasoning, chili powder, Cajun seasoning, or fresh cilantro.
• Add other vegetables.Make this beans and rice recipe with yellow onion, green onions, cloves of garlic, green bell pepper, or green pigeon peas.
• Make it meaty.Add some andouille sausage or ground beef to this recipe for a more satisfying meal the whole family will love.
• Add a citrusy note.Drizzle some lemon juice or lime juice on this Caribbean rice dish for a fresh flavor.

Is Rice and Beans healthy?

It depends on the ingredients used. If you use organic ingredients and brown rice instead of white, this dish will be a perfect fit for your healthy diet.

Is this Red Rice and Beans recipe vegan?

Yes! This recipe is suitable for vegans.

Can you freeze Rice and Beans?

Yes! It’s a good idea to freeze the rice in portions that you would normally use for one or two meals. I freeze my rice in areusable plastic airtight container, to help reduce plastic waste.Ziplock bagswork, too.

What to serve with Rice and Beans?

This recipe makes a very versatile and tasty side dish. You can serve it with:

• Fresh Salad.Make your favorite salad! These are some of my favorites:Tomato Avocado Salad,Tomato Feta Salad,
  Skinny Cabbage Salad,Creamy Cucumber Salad.
• Chicken.Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast,Cabbage and Chicken,
  Easy Chicken Kebabs,Creamy Chicken Thighs.
• Seafood.Shrimp and Vegetables,Salmon Patties,Cajun Salmon,
  Healthy Cod Fish Skillet.
• Grilled or Pan-Cooked Vegetables.Asparagus, zucchini, mushrooms, eggplants, etc. Try myOven Roasted Vegetables,Zucchini Sauce, orMushroom Sauce.
• Tofu.Try theseChipotle SofritasorCrispy Fried Tofu.
• I also love to enjoy it as it, is simply topped with crumbled feta cheese.

I hope you enjoy this delicious Rice and Beans! Please, let me know how you liked the by leaving a comment or a star rating. Printable recipe and nutrition information are located in the recipe card right below!

You'll also enjoy these rice recipes:

• Chicken Rice Casserole
• Chicken and Yellow Rice Skillet
• Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach Rice)
• Rice with Cabbage