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Mom's Authentic Puerto Rican Rice & Beans

Mom's Authentic Puerto Rican Rice & Beans

Mom's Authentic Puerto Rican Rice & Beans is a comforting, homemade dish that embodies the warmth and tradition of family gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: EVENING DINNERS
Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoon olive oil a fragrant base for sautéing that adds richness
  • 0.5 cup sofrito the heart of the dish, offering a blend of herbs and spices
  • 0.5 medium onion (diced) enhances flavor with its natural sweetness
  • 0.5 medium green bell pepper (diced) adds a pop of color and subtle crunch
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced) infuses your dish with aromatic goodness
For Seasoning
  • 1 packet sazón con culantro y achiote this magic seasoning brings vibrant flavor and a gorgeous color
  • 1.5 teaspoon adobo seasoning a must for that essential Puerto Rican taste
  • 0.5 cup tomato sauce perfect for adding a tangy richness that complements the beans
For the Beans
  • 1 can pink beans (drained and rinsed) a protein-packed star that absorbs all the flavors
  • 1 cup broth or water enhances the dish’s depth and helps the beans cook perfectly
  • 1-2 bay leaves subtle aromatic notes that elevate the overall flavor
For the Rice
  • 2 cups medium-grain rice (rinsed) the backbone of this dish, providing a fluffy texture
  • 2 tablespoon oil used when cooking the rice to prevent sticking and enhance flavor
  • 1 teaspoon salt essential for bringing out the best in all the ingredients
  • 2.5 cups water combines with the rice for perfectly cooked grains

Equipment

  • large pot
  • caldero

Method
 

Main Instructions
  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the sofrito, diced onions, green bell pepper, and minced garlic until fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
  2. Stir in the sazón, adobo seasoning, and tomato sauce, mixing well. Allow this vibrant mixture to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add the pink beans, broth or water, and bay leaves. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes.
  4. Rinse the rice under cold water until it runs clear. Drain well before using.
  5. Heat additional oil in a caldero or large pot. Add the rinsed rice and salt, stirring to evenly coat the grains.
  6. Pour in the water and increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Cover, reduce the heat, and let it cook for 18-20 minutes.
  7. Fluff the rice gently with a fork and serve it hot alongside the beans.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 12gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 450mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 8gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For best results, garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.

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