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Homemade Moro de Habichuelas (Rice and Beans) dish photo

Moro de Habichuelas (Rice and Beans)

This Moro de Habichuelas is a comforting one-pot dish that celebrates the flavors of Latin America with rice, beans, and vibrant spices!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dish:
  • 5 tablespoons vegetable oil (preferably olive oil)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
  • 1 tablespoon mashed garlic
  • 1 teaspoon dry thyme leaves (or 3 sprigs of fresh thyme)
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 1 cup pitted green olives (sliced, optional)
  • 1 teaspoon oregano (dry, ground)
  • 1 cubanela cubanelle pepper (diced, or green bell pepper)
  • 1 cup capers (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste (or 1 cup of tomato sauce)
  • 2 cups boiled red kidney beans (or canned)
  • 2 teaspoons salt (or more, to taste)
  • 4 cups rice (long grain like Carolina, do not use instant rice)

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board and knife

Method
 

Instructions:
  1. Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients - Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the vegetables, measure out the spices, and have the beans ready. If you’re using dried beans, make sure they’ve been soaked and cooked ahead of time.
  2. Step 2: Heat the Oil - In a large pot, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
  3. Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables - Add the chopped celery, cubanela pepper, and mashed garlic to the pot. Sauté the mixture for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
  4. Step 4: Add the Spices - Stir in the chopped cilantro, thyme, oregano, and any other spices you’re using. Cook for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Step 5: Incorporate Tomato and Beans - Now add the tomato paste (or sauce) and the boiled red kidney beans (or canned). Mix well and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes.
  6. Step 6: Add Rice and Liquid - Next, add the long grain rice to the pot, followed by 8 cups of water (or broth if you prefer). Stir everything together, bringing it to a boil.
  7. Step 7: Simmer - Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed all the liquid.
  8. Step 8: Final Touches - Once the rice is ready, fluff it with a fork. If you’re using green olives or capers, fold them in gently. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if necessary.
  9. Step 9: Serve - Serve warm, garnished with additional chopped cilantro if desired. Enjoy your hearty meal!

Notes

  • For added fiber, consider using brown rice instead of white.
  • Reduce the oil to cut down on calories.
  • Incorporate extra vegetables like spinach or carrots for more nutrition.
  • Use low-sodium beans or rinse canned beans to manage sodium levels.