Nicaraguan Beans and Rice

black beans

🥗Healthier: kidney beans

💰Cheaper: pinto beans

Pinto beans are often less expensive and still provide a similar texture.

sour cream

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: plain yogurt

Plain yogurt offers a similar tangy flavor with fewer calories.

Soak black beans overnight in water.

Drain and rinse the beans before cooking.

In a pot, add beans and cover with fresh water.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until tender, about 1-1.5 hours.

In a separate pot, cook rice according to package instructions.

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Add chopped onion and bell pepper, sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add cooked beans to the skillet, along with cumin, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.

Mix in the cooked rice and stir to combine evenly.

Add chopped cilantro and lime juice, stirring gently to incorporate.

Remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: