Ah, Haitian Savory Rice and Beans! This dish holds a special place in my heart, and I can’t wait to share it with you! I still remember the first time I ever tasted it at a friend’s family gathering. The aroma wafting from the kitchen made my stomach growl like a bear! I was blown away by how much flavor it packed with just simple ingredients. Trust me, this recipe is not just food; it’s a celebration of flavors that’ll leave you wanting more with every single bite.
This dish has become a staple in my own kitchen ever since. It’s perfect for any occasion—be it a cozy dinner at home or a festive gathering with friends. The beautiful combination of spices and the hearty texture of kidney beans creates a perfect balance, and it’s all tied together with fluffy rice. Let’s dive into what you need to whip up this delightful dish.
What’s in Haitian Savory Rice and Beans?
Long-grain white rice: This is the base of the dish! I prefer using long-grain rice as it cooks up fluffy and separates well.
Red kidney beans: These beans add a lovely creaminess to the dish. I usually go for canned for convenience, but feel free to use dried if you have the time!
Onion: The aromatic backbone of many dishes, onions bring a sweetness and depth of flavor to the rice.
Garlic: I’m a bit of a garlic addict, and its punchy flavor is essential in this recipe to elevate the dish.
Bell pepper: Adds a pop of color and sweetness. You can go for red or green, depending on your preference!
Celery: This gives a nice crunch and a hint of earthiness to balance everything out.
Tomato paste: This ingredient adds a lovely rich color and depth of flavor, enhancing the overall dish.
Thyme: A classic herb that pairs beautifully with rice and beans, bringing a warm, earthy flavor.
Parsley: Fresh is best if you can manage it, but dried works just fine too. It adds brightness.
Bay leaf: Don’t forget this little leaf! It’s key for infusing the rice with a subtle depth.
Paprika: Adds a touch of smokiness and a vibrant color—always a win in my book.
Vegetable broth or water: For cooking the rice. I love using vegetable broth for that extra flavor boost.
Vegetable oil: Used to sauté the veggies; it adds richness to the dish.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that tie everything together and enhance those flavors.
Fresh cilantro: For garnishing! The fresh notes tie the whole dish together beautifully.
Is Haitian Savory Rice and Beans Good for You?
You might be wondering if this dish is a healthy option. Spoiler alert: it is!
Kidney beans: These hearty legumes are a great source of protein and fiber, making them perfect for a filling meal. Plus, they’re packed with nutrients!
Rice: While rice does have carbohydrates, it provides energy, and by opting for long-grain brown rice, you can amp up the health factor with whole grains.
The vegetables in this dish provide a colorful array of vitamins and minerals. Remember, though, moderation is key. If you’re watching your sodium intake, using low-sodium broth or water can help balance it out!
Ingredients
– 2 cups long-grain white rice
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
– 1/2 cup celery, diced
– 1/4 cup tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh)
– 1 teaspoon parsley (fresh or dried)
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 4 cups vegetable broth or water
– 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
This recipe serves about 4-6 people, making it perfect for family dinners!
How to Make Haitian Savory Rice and Beans?
1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents stickiness. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, parsley, paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to let the spices bloom.
4. Add the rinsed rice to the pot, stirring well to coat the rice with the vegetable mixture.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth (or water) and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 15 minutes.
6. After 15 minutes, add the kidney beans to the pot, gently folding them into the rice. Cover again and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
7. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. Then fluff the rice with a fork.
8. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy your Haitian savory rice and beans!
Serving Suggestions for an Unforgettable Meal
If you’re wanting to jazz it up a bit, consider serving this with a side of fried plantains for some sweetness! You can also add a protein on the side—like grilled chicken or fish—to round out the meal.
Don’t shy away from making it your own! Feel free to experiment with other veggies like diced carrots or corn for a twist.
I genuinely hope you give this delightful dish a try! It’s a warm hug on a plate and perfect for sharing with loved ones. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you—so don’t forget to drop a comment once you’ve tried it out! Happy cooking!
