Mantuan Casamiento: A Fusion of Flavors

Ingredients

In the Mantuan adaptation of Casamiento, we incorporate Mantuan spices such as cumin, paprika, and oregano to enhance the flavor profile. Additionally, we use Mantuan beans, which have a slightly different texture and taste compared to the traditional Salvadoran beans. The Mantuan version also includes a variety of vegetables like bell peppers and onions, adding a colorful and nutritious twist to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Casamiento, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) Mantuan beans, soaked overnight 2 cups (400g) Mantuan beans, soaked overnight
• 1 cup (200g) long-grain rice 1 cup (200g) long-grain rice
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
• 1 teaspoon (5g) cumin 1 teaspoon (5g) cumin
• 1 teaspoon (5g) paprika 1 teaspoon (5g) paprika
• 1 teaspoon (5g) dried oregano 1 teaspoon (5g) dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 58g, 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 10g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Drain and rinse the soaked Mantuan beans. In a large pot, add the beans and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the beans are tender, approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Drain and set aside.
2. 2.
   In a separate pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
3. 3.
   Add the cooked Mantuan beans to the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in the cumin, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. 4.
   Meanwhile, cook the rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork.
5. 5.
   Combine the cooked rice with the bean mixture, gently folding them together until well incorporated. Adjust seasoning if needed.
6. 6.
   Serve the Mantuan Casamiento hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Mantuan beans — Soaking the beans overnight helps to reduce cooking time and ensures they cook evenly. Rinse the beans thoroughly before cooking to remove any impurities.

Tips & Tricks

• For added flavor, you can sauté the rice in a little olive oil before cooking it.
• Feel free to customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables or spices.
• Leftover Mantuan Casamiento can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day. It often tastes even better as the flavors have had time to meld together.

Serving advice

Mantuan Casamiento is delicious on its own as a main dish, but it can also be served as a side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables. Pair it with a fresh salad or a side of plantains for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

To make the dish visually appealing, garnish the Mantuan Casamiento with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Serve it in a colorful bowl or on a decorative plate to enhance its presentation.