The Best Baked Rice and Beans

Name: The Best Baked Rice and Beans
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 70 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups long grain white rice (rinsed); 1 can black beans (drained and rinsed); 3 cups vegetable broth; 1 medium onion (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

70 min 6 servings Easy

All Recipes

Experience a flavourful delight with our best baked rice and beans recipe, perfect for a comforting meal any day of the week.

Prep

15 min

Cook

45 min

Total

70 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Baked rice and beans is a classic dish that brings together the heartiness of rice with the protein-rich goodness of beans, creating a wholesome meal that is both filling and nutritious. This version bakes the combination to perfection, allowing the flavours to meld seamlessly. This dish is ideal for those who appreciate a simple yet satisfying meal that can be easily customized with your favourite spices or additional ingredients like vegetables or meats. It's perfect for family dinners or meal prep, as it stores well and can be enjoyed over several days.

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Sauté the aromatics

In a large, oven-safe pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.

Pro tip: Ensure the garlic doesn't burn to avoid a bitter taste.

Add spices

Stir in the cumin and chili powder, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Pro tip: Toasting the spices helps release their flavours.

Combine ingredients

Add the rinsed rice, drained black beans, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir to combine and season with salt and pepper.

Bake the dish

Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid or foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed.

Pro tip: Check at the 30-minute mark to ensure the rice isn't overcooked.

Let it rest

Remove from the oven and let the dish rest, covered, for 10 minutes before serving.

Pro tip: Resting helps the flavours meld and the rice to firm up slightly.

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Tips & Tricks

Use a heavy-bottomed dish to prevent burning.
Rinse rice thoroughly to remove excess starch.
Add spices to taste, but don't overpower the beans.
Let the dish rest before serving for optimal flavour melding.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this the best baked rice and beans?

This recipe combines simple ingredients with a perfect balance of spices, ensuring a delicious and satisfying dish every time.

Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes as brown rice takes longer to cook.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper to increase the spice level.

Is this dish vegan?

Yes, this baked rice and beans recipe is naturally vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no animal products.

What can I serve with baked rice and beans?

Serve it with a fresh salad, grilled chicken, or cornbread for a complete meal.

How long can I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to five days in an airtight container.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this baked rice and beans dish with a side of fresh salad or a dollop of sour cream to enhance its flavours. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or a slice of buttery cornbread for a complete meal. This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. Its flavours improve with time, making it a great option for meal planning.