Make this flavorful, hearty black beans and rice with smoked sausage in just one pot. It is a satisfying, budget-friendly meal perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:35 min
Total Time:50 min
Yield:6 servings
Category:Dinner
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained
1 bay leaf
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the uncooked rice to the pot and stir for 1 minute to coat the grains with the seasonings and oil.
Pour in the broth. Add the rinsed and drained black beans and the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and simmer for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Do not lift the lid during this time.
Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the cooked sausage. Let the pot stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
Remove and discard the bay leaf. Fluff the rice mixture gently with a fork. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side.
Notes
This recipe works well for meal prep; store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For a vegan option, skip the sausage and use vegetable broth. You can add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor substitute.
If you like a bit of heat, add diced jalapeño along with the onion and pepper.