This savory Caribbean side is a tasty take on classic rice and beans!
Whether at home or at my favorite Mexican joint, I typically enjoy a side of black beans and rice with my tacos. They’re a mild but flavorful staple, and I never get tired of them. But have you ever tried Puerto Rican rice and beans? With a special zesty Sazon seasoning, they are simply delicious and just as easy to make. And yes, they go great with tacos!
This dish brings together tender beans and fluffy rice infused with the flavors of onions, bell peppers, garlic, and cilantro, resulting in a truly comforting and satisfying meal. But it’s the distinctive taste of Sazon seasoning that makes this Puerto Rican dish stand out from your usual rice and beans. Sazon has a citrus savoriness with just a hint of pepper. Don’t worry; it’s not crazy spicy! It’s just right. Overall, Puerto Rican rice and beans can complement most Latin American dishes. Give it a try!
What else can I use Sazon for?
Why do I love Sazon seasoning so much? Well, for starters, it’s so flavorful and versatile. It’s usually a warmly spiced mix of coriander, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika, with bright yellow annatto for color. I add this seasoning to marinades and meat rubs—everything from chicken breasts to pork tenderloin! It’s even delicious with seafood, especially in shrimp or even ceviche bowls. Sazon also adds a nice flavor and vibrant golden color to soups and stews. Try adding a packet to your next batch of chili for a taste of liquid gold!
Really, the possibilities are endless with this all-purpose seasoning. Sazon may just become your next favorite flavor enhancer.
How do I store leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container. They should stay fresh in your fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. If you do, make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating it over medium heat on the stove for 10-15 minutes or until the rice and beans start to sizzle.
Serving suggestions
Puerto Rican rice and beans might hail from the Caribbean, but they pair well with a variety of dishes. Serve them alongside Pan-Seared Chicken Breast and Grilled Tilapia. Or serve it as part of a feast of Caribbean Chicken Bowls With Grilled Plantains and Mexican Grilled Corn Salad With Jalapeño And Avocado! And you can also keep it simple, because this side makes for a delicious meal or snack on its own. Just garnish it with extra cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
Ingredients
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 4 cups water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion diced
- 1 green bell pepper diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 can kidney beans (15 ounces) drained and rinsed
- 1 8-ounce can tomato sauce
- 1 packet Sazon seasoning with coriander and annatto
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, which helps prevent the rice from becoming sticky.
- In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, stir, and reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
- While the rice is cooking, heat olive oil in a separate large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and chopped cilantro to the skillet and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the drained kidney beans, tomato sauce, Sazon seasoning, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve the bean mixture over the cooked rice. Garnish with additional fresh cilantro if desired.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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