Spoon Simple
Classic Rice and Beans
Perfectly seasoned rice and beans — the most satisfying budget meal you can make. Packed with protein and fiber, costs under $2 per serving, and tastes incredible.
Prep 5 min
Cook 25 min
Total 30 min
Serves 4
Ingredients
Step 1 — Cook the rice
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 4 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Step 2 — Make the beans
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans or pinto beans (drained)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper
- ¼ cup vegetable broth
Step 3 — Serve
- Lime wedges
- Fresh cilantro
- Hot sauce
- Avocado slices (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Cook the rice
Combine rice, water or broth, salt, and oil in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and cook 18 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
- 2
Make the beans
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook onion 4 minutes until soft. Add garlic, cumin, paprika, and oregano. Cook 1 minute. Add beans and broth. Simmer 8-10 minutes until beans are creamy and liquid reduces. Mash some beans slightly for a creamier texture. Season with salt and pepper.
- 3
Serve
Serve beans over or alongside rice. Top with lime juice, cilantro, hot sauce, and avocado.
Nutrition per serving: 380 cal · 14g protein · 70g carbs · 6g fat · 12g fiber
For informational purposes only. Not medical or dietary advice. Verify ingredients for allergens, cooking times, and safe internal temperatures before serving.
