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Hearty One-Pot Black Beans and Rice with Sausage

A close-up of flavorful black beans and rice topped with seared sausage slices and fresh cilantro, served with a lime wedge.

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Make this satisfying, flavor-packed black beans and rice dish in a single pot. It uses simple ingredients and is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or budget-friendly meal prep.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
  2. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic, cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the uncooked rice, coating it with the oil and spices. Cook for 1 minute.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth. Add the rinsed black beans and the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and simmer for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed all the liquid and is tender. Do not lift the lid during this time.
  6. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir the cooked sausage back into the rice mixture. Let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
  7. Remove and discard the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Notes

  • For a vegan option, skip the sausage and use vegetable broth. Add 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke for depth of flavor.
  • This recipe works well for meal prep; store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • If you prefer a Cuban Style Black Beans and Rice, add 1/2 teaspoon of dried ground mustard and a splash of apple cider vinegar when you add the broth.

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