Description
A hearty and flavorful dish combining tender black beans, smoky sausage, and fluffy rice, seasoned with cumin, oregano, and fire-roasted tomatoes for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice
- 1 1/3 cup uncooked rice
- 2 teaspoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 large green bell pepper, diced
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
Meat
- 1 smoked sausage, sliced in half moons
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- salt and pepper, to taste
Beans & Tomatoes
- 2 cans Black Chili Beans with sauce
- 1 can Black Beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can fire roasted tomatoes
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the uncooked rice with 2 2/3 cups water and 2 teaspoons butter. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until rice is tender and water is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
- Sauté the Vegetables and Sausage: While the rice cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the sliced smoked sausage and minced garlic; cook until sausage is browned and garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Spices: Stir in 1 tablespoon cumin and 1/2 teaspoon oregano to the sausage and vegetable mixture, cooking for another minute to release the flavors.
- Add Beans and Tomatoes: Pour in the 2 cans of Black Chili Beans with sauce, 1 can of rinsed and drained Black Beans, and the can of fire-roasted tomatoes into the skillet. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat and let it cook gently for about 5 minutes to meld flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Serve: Spoon the cooked rice onto plates and top with the sausage and bean mixture. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the bean mixture.
- You can substitute smoked sausage with andouille or chorizo for varied flavors.
- Rinsing and draining the black beans helps reduce sodium and thickens the dish.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat smoothly.
- Adding a squeeze of lime juice or fresh cilantro before serving enhances freshness.
