Sunday, January 27, 2013

Pantry Beans and Rice

This is great for a quick, easy dinner when you don't want to go to the store.  Most of the ingredients are usually on hand. 

1 teaspoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
1-2 carrots, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 cup uncooked white rice
1 1/2 cups Chicken broth
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed

In a stockpot over medium-high heat, heat the oil. Add the onion, carrot and garlic and saute for 4 minutes. Add the rice and saute for 2 minutes.

Add the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, cover and lower the heat and cook for 20 minutes. Add the spices and black beans.  Stir, season with salt to taste, and serve.

Makes enough for 2 for dinner, with plenty for lunch the next day.

You could change it up by adding cooked chicken, or shrimp, or sausage, or by using a different kind of bean.  A can of diced tomatoes and green chilies would be a nice addition, too.

NOTE:  I've now tried it two or three times, never with the same combo of ingredients, and it's been delicious and surprisingly satisfying every time.  Now I'm wondering how an Indian version, with curry powder and lentils, would be.

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