![- 1 cup jasmine rice - 1 can (400ml) coconut milk - 1 cup vegetable broth Jasmine rice is fragrant and fluffy. It absorbs the creamy coconut milk well. Coconut milk gives the dish its rich, tropical flavor. Vegetable broth adds depth and enhances the taste. - 1 can (400g) black beans, rinsed and drained - 1 small red onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Black beans add protein and a hearty texture. Red onion brings sweetness and color. Garlic adds a savory punch. Cumin and smoked paprika give the dish warmth and earthiness. - Juice of 1 lime - Fresh cilantro, chopped - 1 tablespoon olive oil Lime juice brightens the dish with acidity. Fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness. Olive oil helps sauté the onion and gives a nice finish. You can find the full recipe to try this delightful dish yourself! 1. To start, heat the olive oil in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. 2. Add the finely chopped red onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes. You want it soft and translucent. 3. Next, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for about one minute. This makes the kitchen smell amazing. 4. Now, add the jasmine rice to the pan. Toast the rice by stirring it for 2 minutes. This step adds a nutty flavor to the dish. 1. Carefully pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. 2. Season the mix with salt, pepper, ground cumin, and smoked paprika. 3. Stir everything well to combine. 4. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Then, lower the heat, cover the pan, and cook for 15-18 minutes. The rice should be tender and absorb all the liquid. 1. While the rice cooks, take a separate saucepan. Combine the rinsed black beans with lime juice and a pinch of salt. 2. Heat the beans over low heat for 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until they are warmed through. Once the rice is done, fluff it with a fork. Let it rest for a few minutes. This makes it perfect for serving. For the full recipe, check the section above. - Perfecting rice texture: Use jasmine rice for that fluffy and fragrant finish. Always rinse it well before cooking. This removes excess starch, preventing it from becoming sticky. When cooking, keep the lid on the pot. This traps steam and helps the rice cook evenly. - Avoiding garlic browning: Garlic can quickly go from golden to burnt. To keep it light and fresh, cook it for just a minute. Stir it often to prevent it from browning. This way, it stays flavorful without overpowering the dish. - Recommended seasoning adjustments: If you love spice, add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder. For more depth, try adding a bay leaf during cooking. This little change can elevate the dish's flavor. - Suggestions for garnishing: Fresh cilantro adds a bright touch. A squeeze of lime on top adds zest. You can even sprinkle some toasted coconut for a crunchy finish. - Plating ideas: Serve the coconut rice in colorful bowls for a fun look. Place the rice slightly off-center, then add a scoop of black beans. This creates a beautiful contrast on the plate. - Pairing with proteins or sides: This dish goes well with grilled chicken or shrimp. You can also serve it with a side of sautéed vegetables for a complete meal. It’s a great way to enjoy a balanced plate. For the full recipe, click here: [Full Recipe]. {{image_4}} You can add coconut flakes for extra texture. I love using unsweetened flakes. They give a nice crunch and a stronger coconut taste. Another great idea is mixing in vegetables. Peas, corn, or bell peppers can brighten up the dish. Just toss them in when the rice is cooking. They will soak up all the delicious flavors. This recipe is easy to make vegan. Just ensure the broth is vegetable-based. For gluten-free options, stick with the right broth and check labels. Both choices keep the dish tasty and safe for all diets. Coconut rice and black beans pair well with many dishes. Try grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. You can also add a fresh salad on the side. It adds color and crunch. For sides, plantain chips or avocado slices work well. They add more flavor and texture to your plate. After you enjoy your coconut rice and black beans, store any leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh. Your dish will last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to eat it later, make sure to cool it completely before placing it in the fridge. To freeze coconut rice and beans, pack them in a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top for expansion. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When you are ready to eat, just take the container out of the freezer. Thaw the rice and beans in the fridge overnight. If you need it fast, use the microwave at a low power setting. This way, your dish will stay nice and moist. For reheating, use the stovetop for the best flavor and texture. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out. Heat over low until warm. You can also use the microwave. Just cover it to trap steam, and heat in short bursts. This helps keep your dish delicious! If you don’t have jasmine rice, you can use other types of rice. Here are some great options: - Basmati rice: This rice has a nice aroma and fluffy texture. - Long-grain white rice: This is a simple, easy-to-find choice. - Brown rice: This option is heartier and healthier but takes longer to cook. - Quinoa: A gluten-free grain that adds a nutty flavor. Each option brings a different taste and texture, so feel free to experiment! Adding protein makes this dish more filling. Here are some easy suggestions: - Grilled chicken: Tender and juicy, it pairs well with the rice. - Shrimp: Quick to cook, shrimp adds a nice touch of seafood flavor. - Tofu: A great plant-based option, just sauté until crispy. - Ground beef or turkey: Cook it with spices to blend flavors. - Lentils: For a vegetarian choice, add cooked lentils for extra protein. These additions can make your meal heartier and more satisfying. Yes, you can make this recipe ahead. Here are some tips: - Cook the rice and beans separately and store them in the fridge. - Keep each in airtight containers to maintain freshness. - They can last about 3-4 days in the fridge. - Reheat before serving; add a splash of coconut milk for creaminess. Making it ahead saves time and lets the flavors blend nicely. No, this recipe is not spicy. Here’s why: - The main flavors come from coconut, black beans, and spices. - Ground cumin and smoked paprika add warmth but no heat. - If you want spice, you can add diced jalapeños or chili powder. This dish is perfect for those who prefer milder flavors. Enjoy it as is or spice it up to your liking! In this guide, we explored the tasty world of coconut rice and black beans. We covered key ingredients like jasmine rice and coconut milk, plus some great spices and garnishes. You learned step-by-step instructions to prepare and cook the dish, along with helpful tips for flavor and texture. We also shared variations and storage tips, making it easy to customize and enjoy. Now, you have the tools to create a delicious meal that suits your taste. Your kitchen adventures await!](https://recipetorch.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/ca436853-9394-4e99-bbda-1d95656da168-250x250.webp)
14. Coconut Rice and Black Beans
Discover the tropical goodness of Coconut Rice & Flavored Black Beans with this easy, flavorful recipe! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summery feast, this dish combines fragrant jasmine rice cooked in creamy coconut milk and hearty black beans spiced with lime and cilantro. Dive into these vibrant flavors that are sure to impress your family and friends. Click through to explore the full recipe and bring a taste of the tropics to your table!