The Best Baked Rice and Beans

Ingredients and Weight:

• 2 cups (400g) dried black beans, picked over and rinsed
• 1 onion, chopped (1 cup)
• 2 bell peppers, chopped (2 cups)
• 2 jalapeños, seeded and minced (1/4 cup)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (2 teaspoons)
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 cups (480g) long-grain white rice
• 1 (14-ounce) can chicken broth
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Preparation Time:

30 minutes

Cooking Time:

2 hours

Difficulty Level:

2

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Combine the black beans, onion, bell peppers, jalapeños, garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, thyme, cumin, cilantro, and rice in a large Dutch oven.
3. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the beans are tender.
4. Stir in the chicken broth, butter, and parsley.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Pour the mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 1 hour, or until the rice is cooked through and the top is golden brown.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 350 per serving
• Fat: 15g
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 9g

Dish Characteristics:

• Hearty and satisfying
• Rich and flavorful
• Slightly spicy
• Perfect for a casual gathering
• Can be made ahead of time

User Comments:

• "This is the best baked rice and beans I've ever had!"
• "The combination of flavors is perfect."
• "I love that it's not too spicy."
• "The leftovers are even better the next day."
• "This dish is a crowd-pleaser."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you don't have time to soak the beans overnight, you can quick-soak them by bringing them to a boil in a large pot of water. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour. Drain and rinse before using.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, add more jalapeños or use serrano peppers.
• You can also add other vegetables to this dish, such as corn, zucchini, or squash.
• Serve with sour cream, shredded cheese, or your favorite salsa.