Skillet Black Beans with Yellow-Brown Rice

I whipped up these black beans and brown rice for dinner last night and they were delicious! After trying to make brown rice tons of different ways, I am partial to instant brown rice. Instant brown rice doesn't have any additives and is simple parboiled before packaging, so it cooks up in no time. If you have been turned off by brown rice try it this way. It is sure to impress!


skillet black beans
serves 4

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, minced
• 2-3 teaspoons of ginger, grated
• 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 2 15oz cans of black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup of water
• salt and pepper to taste

 Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion with a bit of salt and cook until softened and translucent, about 10 minutes (I like really soft onions for this dish). Add the garlic and ginger and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the spices and cook for an additional minute. Add beans and water and mash slightly with a fork or potato masher. Cook until heated through, about 5 minutes, adding more water if desired. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve with a dash of hot sauce and cilantro if desired.


yellow-brown rice
serves 4

• 1 can of chicken or vegetable broth (about 2 cups)
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon tumeric
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• dash of paprika
• dash of ground ginger
• 2 cups of instant brown rice
• 1 cup of frozen peas, thawed (I just microwave them for a minute or so before adding)

Mix the broth and spices. Bring to a boil over high heat. Add the rice, cover and reduce heat to low. Cook covered for 5 minutes. Then turn heat off and let sit for additional 5 minutes. Stir in peas

*Note: I used Minute brand brown rice. If you use a different brand follow the package instructions for that rice, making the amount for 4 servings. Just substitute broth for the water and add the spices.

Enjoy!