Learn how to make a flavorful and wholesome Cuban Congri, a delicious rice and black beans recipe using natural ingredients for an authentic taste and color.
Congri, or Cuban rice and black beans, is a beloved dish that has become a staple at our family gatherings, thanks to my mother-in-law. Her recipe, full of simple yet flavorful ingredients, brings everyone to the table, whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a weekend dinner. The savory blend of rice, black beans, and aromatic spices creates a comforting and hearty dish that pairs beautifully with just about anything. This Congri has quickly become a family tradition, one that we all look forward to sharing year after year.
Why You’ll Love This Congri Recipe
You’ll love this Congri recipe for its simplicity, authenticity, and bold flavors. It’s made with wholesome, plant-based ingredients and comes together in one pan, making it perfect for an easy yet satisfying meal. The natural liquid from the black beans gives the rice its signature color while adding depth to every bite. This recipe is versatile enough to complement any main dish, yet hearty enough to stand on its own. Plus, it’s a cherished family recipe, bringing warmth and tradition to your table. Whether for a festive gathering or a comforting weeknight dinner, this Congri is sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp oil
- ½ red onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1 cup jasmine rice, rinsed
- 1 cup water or vegetable broth
- 2-3 tbsp black bean sauce (for color and flavor)
Instructions
- Heat a large pan over medium heat and drizzle with oil.
- Add the diced red onion and sauté until golden and fragrant.
- Stir in the sliced green bell pepper and minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until softened.
- Add the black beans, cumin, and salt. Mix well to combine.
- Stir in the rinsed jasmine rice, ensuring the grains are well coated.
- Pour in the water or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for 15 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent sticking.
- Once the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, add the black bean sauce for a rich black color and deeper flavor. Mix thoroughly.
- Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and serve warm.
Enjoy your flavorful Cuban Congri!
Recipe Tips
Rinse the Rice Well: Always rinse the jasmine rice until the water runs clear to remove excess starch and prevent the rice from becoming sticky.
Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances the aroma and flavor of the dish compared to pre-minced or powdered garlic.
Save the Bean Liquid: Use the liquid from canned black beans to naturally color the rice and add a deeper flavor.
Sauté for Flavor: Take time to sauté the onions, bell pepper, and garlic until aromatic, as this builds the base flavor of the dish.
Stir Halfway Through: Stirring the rice halfway through cooking helps distribute the flavors and prevents sticking or burning at the bottom of the pan.
Add a Smoky Touch: A small pinch of smoked paprika can add a subtle smoky depth to the dish if desired.
Check the Liquid: If the rice isn’t fully cooked after 15 minutes, add a few tablespoons of water or broth and cook a little longer.
Use Homemade Black Beans: If you prefer, cook your own black beans from scratch and use the cooking liquid for a fresher and healthier option.
Customize the Spice: Adjust the cumin and salt levels to suit your taste. You can also add a pinch of oregano for extra flavor.
Make it a Meal: Serve with plantains, avocado, or a crisp salad for a complete Cuban-inspired meal.
These tips will help you achieve a perfectly seasoned, aromatic, and colorful Congri every time!
Congri (Cuban Rice and Black Beans)
Ingredients
- 1 cup jasmine rice rinsed
- 1,5 cup water or vegetable broth
- 1/2 red onion diced
- 1 can black beans
- 1 green bell pepper sliced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- salt
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1-2 bay leaves
Instructions
- Heat a large pan over medium heat and drizzle with oil.
- Add the diced red onion and sauté until golden and fragrant.
- Stir in the sliced green bell pepper and minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until softened.
- Add the black beans, cumin, and salt. Mix well to combine.
- Stir in the rinsed jasmine rice, ensuring the grains are well coated.
- Pour in the water or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for 15 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent sticking.
- Once the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, add the black bean sauce for a rich black color and deeper flavor. Mix thoroughly.
- Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and serve warm.
Notes
- For a more authentic touch, you can garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime.
- Pair this dish with fried plantains, avocado slices, or a side salad for a complete meal.
This Cuban Congri is more than just a delicious dish—it’s a recipe filled with tradition, family, and love. Whether you’re serving it at a festive gathering or a cozy dinner at home, it’s sure to bring warmth and joy to your table. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this flavorful recipe as much as we do. Buen provecho!