black beans + rice

**The following article was written by guest contributor, Kimberley Bostic.**

While I can’t guarantee your child will like it, it has been “kid-tested” and passed with flying colors. It’s also a favorite with the adults. This meal is a staple in my house and meat is not necessary, since beans are protein-rich (although it goes great with mojo-marinated flank steak). One key ingredient you will need is Sazόn Goya. It is usually found in the ethnic food section of the grocery store, or in the spices section. It’s sold in a little box, which contains several packets of the seasoning. It instantly adds flavor to any bean dish, stews, vegetables, rices…pretty much anything. It’s a must-have in your pantry!

To prepare:

Black Beans
1 15.5 ounce can black beans (Goya recommended)
1 Packet Sazόn Goya (without Annato)
½ cup yellow onion, finely chopped (tip: finely chopping veggies makes then less visible and therefore are more tolerated by kids)
¼ cup yellow or orange bell pepper, finely chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon ground oregano
1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped (optional)
2/3 cup water

In medium saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper and oregano and cook for 2-3 minutes. Then add garlic, cilantro and Sazon Goya packet. Cook just until softened (about 5-7 minutes). Add beans (do not drain) and water. Bring to a boil then immediately reduce heat to low-medium. Simmer for about 10 minutes.

White Rice
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 cups water
1–1 ½ tablespoons salt (tip: make sure you add salt to the water BEFORE you add the rice)
1½ cups long grain white rice
In wide saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add water and salt. Bring to a boil. Add rice and reduce heat to low-medium. Simmer for 6-7 minutes WITHOUT STIRRING. Gently fold rice over, reduce heat to low, and cook another 10 minutes, gently folding over one more time. Cook another 5-10 minutes until tender. (Tip: Too much stirring will make the rice mushy).

Serve black beans over rice. Garnish with a few cilantro leaves. Serves 4-6.

I hope your family enjoys this dish as much as mine has. Please take some time to leave a comment if you try this recipe or have your own thoughts.