Latin Beans And Rice
A hearty Latin-inspired beans and rice dish featuring smoky bacon, seasoned tomato sauce, and tender beans, perfect for a comforting and flavorful meal any day of the week.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a heavy skillet, fry bacon until crisp.
- Add chopped onion and green pepper; sauté, stirring, until limp.
- Add crushed garlic and cook briefly.
- Stir in tomato paste.
- Add kidney beans, oregano, salt, black pepper, and water; heat to boiling.
- Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, stirring now and then, until sauce thickens slightly.
- Serve over hot cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider using smoked bacon for a richer flavor. You can substitute the kidney beans with black beans or pinto beans if preferred. Fresh herbs like cilantro can enhance the dish's aroma. If you're short on time, precooked rice can also be used. Adjust the seasoning to taste; fresh oregano can be a great alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Latin Beans and Rice with a side of avocado slices or a fresh green salad for a refreshing contrast. It pairs beautifully with hot sauce for those who enjoy a kick. Consider serving it alongside grilled meats or as a filling for burritos for a heartier meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the beans seem dry, add a splash of water to restore moisture while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Latin Beans And Rice contains roughly 526 calories, with 17g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (70% of the Daily Value), iron (61% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (57% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1090mg per serving (47% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and replace it with olive oil or a plant-based bacon alternative. You can enhance the flavor by adding additional spices or smoked paprika to mimic the smokiness of bacon.
What type of rice is best to use?
Long-grain white rice is a great choice for this dish as it remains fluffy and separate. However, brown rice can be used for a healthier option, though it may require a longer cooking time. Jasmine or basmati rice also adds a fragrant touch.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the Latin Beans and Rice for up to 2 months. Ensure it's stored in an airtight container. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm on the stove or microwave, adding a bit of water if needed to restore moisture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).