Moros y Cristianos or Cuban Black Beans and Rice

black beans

🥗Healthier: lentils

💰Cheaper: pinto beans

Lentils are lower in calories and provide a similar texture.

white rice

🥗Healthier: brown rice

💰Cheaper: parboiled rice

Brown rice is more nutritious and has a nuttier flavor.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil has a higher smoke point and is healthier.

chicken broth

🥗Healthier: vegetable broth

💰Cheaper: water with seasoning

Vegetable broth is lower in calories and can be made easily.

Soak black beans overnight in water.

Drain and rinse the soaked beans.

Cook beans in a pot with water until tender, about 1-1.5 hours.

In a separate pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.

Sauté chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper until softened, about 5 minutes.

Add cumin and bay leaves, stirring for 1 minute until fragrant.

Add cooked black beans to the sautéed mixture.

Stir in chicken broth and bring to a simmer for 10 minutes.

In another pot, cook white rice according to package instructions.

Once rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and season with lime juice and cilantro.

Serve black beans over rice, garnished with green onion and cilantro.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: