Classic and Simple: Black Beans and Rice

This meatless recipe, Classic and Simple: Black Beans and Rice, leans on olive oil, green bell pepper and onion. It makes 6 Servings and takes about 80 minutes.

• Yield 6 Servings
• Ready in 80 minutes
• Prep 20 minutes
• Cook 60 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 medium green bell pepper (seeded and chopped)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 5-6 cloves garlic (finely minced)
• 2 cans (16-ounces each) black beans (rinsed and drained)
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 3/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
• 4-5 cups hot (cooked white or brown rice)

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the bell pepper, onion and garlic and saute, stirring often, for about 15 minutes, until all the vegetables are soft and tender. Stir in the beans, tomatoes, chicken broth, thyme, bay leaf, oregano and water; bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the vegetables are tender, about 45 minutes. If the mixture becomes too thick, add a tablespoon or two of hot water to thin to desired consistency.
2. Stir in the fresh cilantro and season with salt and pepper; discard the bay leaf. Serve over the hot rice.
3. For an electric pressure cooker, use the Saute function to heat the oil. Cook the bell pepper, onion, and garlic, stirring often, for several minutes, until tender. Stir in the beans, tomatoes, chicken broth, thyme, bay leaf, oregano, and water. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Quick release the pressure. If you want the mixture thicker, continue cooking using the Saute function until the mixture is thick (stir often to prevent sticking). Stir in the cilantro and season to taste with salt and pepper, if needed.

Give it a minute off the heat, then serve it while it is still hot.