Why Make This Recipe
Black Beans and Rice with Sausage is a hearty and satisfying dish that combines protein, fiber, and flavor in one pot. It is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. This recipe is easy to prepare and brings together the rich tastes of sausage, spices, and creamy black beans. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, making it a great choice for any home cook.
How to Make Black Beans and Rice with Sausage
Ingredients:
- 1 cup black beans, cooked
- 1 cup rice, uncooked
- 1 pound sausage, sliced or crumbled
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- In a large pot, brown the sausage over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until softened.
- Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add the rice and stir to coat with the spices.
- Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in cooked black beans and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
How to Serve Black Beans and Rice with Sausage
Serve this dish hot as a main meal. It pairs well with a side salad or some crusty bread. You can also add extra toppings like sliced avocado, hot sauce, or shredded cheese for added flavor. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
How to Store Black Beans and Rice with Sausage
If you have leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and heat on the stove or microwave until warm.
Tips to Make Black Beans and Rice with Sausage
- For extra flavor, try using smoked sausage or chorizo.
- Adjust the spices according to your taste preference. Add more cumin or paprika for a stronger flavor.
- Make it a vegetarian dish by omitting the sausage and using vegetable broth.
Variation
You can add vegetables to boost the nutrition of this dish. Bell peppers, corn, or spinach are great additions. Just sauté them with the onion and garlic for extra flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use dried black beans instead of cooked?
Yes, you can use dried beans. Just soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the dish.
2. Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. Just reheat on the stove before serving.
3. What can I serve with Black Beans and Rice with Sausage?
This dish is filling on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad, avocado slices, or cornbread for a complete meal.
Black Beans and Rice with Sausage
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 cup black beans, cooked
- 1 cup rice, uncooked
- 1 pound sausage, sliced or crumbled
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Cooking
- In a large pot, brown the sausage over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until softened.
- Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add the rice and stir to coat with the spices.
- Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in cooked black beans and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.