Indulge in the rich flavors of Guatemala with our traditional Rice and Beans dish! This beloved Central American staple features fluffy, aromatic rice paired with tender, seasoned beans, creating a symphony of taste and texture that's impossible to resist. Our recipe stays true to the heart of Guatemalan cuisine, blending savory spices and fresh ingredients for a truly authentic experience. Whether enjoyed as a satisfying main course or a comforting side dish, our Guatemala Rice and Beans will transport you to the vibrant streets and bustling markets of Guatemala with every delicious bite. Try it today and savor the taste of true Central American hospitality!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 cup black beans, cooked (or canned, drained and rinsed)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper (any color), finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.

2- In a large skillet or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

3- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant.

4- Stir in the rice, cumin, paprika, and dried oregano. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to toast the rice and spices.

5- Add the cooked black beans to the skillet and stir to combine with the rice and vegetables.

6- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil.

7- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet or pot with a lid, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid. Avoid stirring the rice too much during cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.

8- Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet or pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes to steam.

9- Fluff the rice and beans mixture with a fork. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

10- Serve the Guatemala Rice and Beans hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy as a hearty main dish or as a side to your favorite Guatemalan dishes!

This recipe serves about 4 people as a main dish or 6 as a side dish. Adjust quantities accordingly for your needs.

Nutritional Values :

Long-grain white rice (1 cup cooked):

• Calories: 205
• Carbohydrates: 45 grams
• Protein: 4 grams
• Fat: 0.4 grams
• Fiber: 0.6 grams

benefits

• Provides energy due to its high carbohydrate content.
• Low in fat and cholesterol.
• Contains essential nutrients like manganese, selenium, and magnesium.

Black beans (1 cup cooked):

• Calories: 227
• Carbohydrates: 40 grams
• Protein: 15 grams
• Fat: 1 gram
• Fiber: 15 grams

benefits

• Excellent source of plant-based protein.
• High in dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and helping with weight management.
• Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals such as folate, iron, and potassium.

Onion (1 medium):

• Calories: 44
• Carbohydrates: 10 grams
• Protein: 1 gram
• Fat: 0 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams

benefits

• Contains antioxidants that may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• Provides fiber, which supports digestive health.
• Contains vitamins C and B6, as well as other nutrients like folate and potassium.

Bell pepper (1 medium):

• Calories: 25
• Carbohydrates: 6 grams
• Protein: 1 gram
• Fat: 0 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams

benefits

• High in vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health.
• Contains antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.
• Good source of vitamin A, potassium, and fiber.

Garlic (2 cloves):

• Calories: 9
• Carbohydrates: 2 grams
• Protein: 0.4 grams
• Fat: 0 grams
• Fiber: 0.1 grams

benefits

• Known for its potential health benefits, including boosting the immune system and reducing blood pressure.
• Contains compounds with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
• May help improve cholesterol levels and heart health.

Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 240
• Fat: 28 grams
• No significant protein, carbohydrate, or fiber content

benefits

• Provides healthy fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
• Contains vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.
• Can aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K.

These values are approximate and can vary depending on factors such as cooking methods and specific brands used.