Soulful Rice and Beans

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the original Bosnian Rice-banke is transformed into a soul food delight. The traditional Bosnian dish is typically prepared with white rice and beans, but the soul food version incorporates additional spices and flavors to enhance the dish's soulful essence. The cooking techniques and traditions of soul food are also incorporated, resulting in a unique fusion of cuisines. We alse have the original recipe for Rice-banke, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) long-grain white rice 2 cups (470ml) long-grain white rice
• 2 cups (470ml) cooked kidney beans 2 cups (470ml) cooked kidney beans
• 1 onion, diced 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and black pepper to taste Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 65g, 4g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 8g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. 2.
   In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
3. 3.
   Add the cooked kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), smoked paprika, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
4. 4.
   Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. 5.
   Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add it to the skillet with the bean mixture. Gently stir to combine all the ingredients.
6. 6.
   Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors.
7. 7.
   Serve the Soulful Rice and Beans hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Rice — Make sure to rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch and achieve fluffy grains.
• Kidney beans — If using canned beans, rinse them well to remove any excess sodium. If using dried beans, soak them overnight and cook until tender before adding to the recipe.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smokier flavor, you can add a few drops of liquid smoke to the dish.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce.
• Serve the Soulful Rice and Beans with a side of cornbread for a complete soul food experience.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated the next day for an equally delicious meal.
• Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or protein, such as diced bell peppers, corn, or smoked sausage.

Serving advice

Serve the Soulful Rice and Beans as a main course, accompanied by a side of cornbread and a fresh green salad. It can also be served as a side dish alongside fried chicken or barbecued ribs.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, garnish the dish with a sprig of fresh parsley and serve it in a colorful ceramic bowl or on a rustic wooden platter.