Nicaraguan Rice and Beans

Bring the vibrant flavors of Central America to your table with this comforting and aromatic Nicaraguan Rice and Beans recipe, also known as "Gallo Pinto." This hearty dish combines perfectly cooked white rice, tender red beans, and a medley of finely chopped onions, red bell peppers, and garlic, all sautéed to perfection in vegetable oil. Infused with just the right balance of seasoning and a hint of the beans' cooking liquid, this one-pan wonder achieves a deliciously cohesive and flavorful texture. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a versatile recipe that works equally well as a satisfying main course or a savory side dish. Garnish with fresh cilantro for an added burst of color and taste. Perfectly simple yet rich in tradition, this Nicaraguan classic will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Nutriscore Rating: 79/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup white rice
• 1 cup red beans (cooked, with some reserved cooking liquid)
• 1 small, finely chopped onion
• 1 small, finely chopped red bell pepper
• 2 cloves, minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 0.5 teaspoons salt
• 0.25 teaspoons ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons, chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Cook the white rice according to package instructions. Set aside and let it cool slightly for best texture.

Step 2

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and the onion is translucent.

Step 4

Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Step 5

Stir in the cooked red beans along with 2–3 tablespoons of the reserved bean cooking liquid. Mix everything well.

Step 6

Add the cooked rice to the skillet with the beans and vegetables. Stir gently to combine without mashing the beans.

Step 7

Season the mixture with salt and ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 8

Reduce the heat to low and let the rice and beans cook together for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 9

Remove from heat and garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve warm as a main dish or side.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	644.9 grams (644.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	821

Total Fat 28.30g	36%
Saturated Fat 4.20g	21%
Polyunsaturated Fat 16.80g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1194mg	52%
Total Carbohydrate 118.40g	43%
Dietary Fiber 19.80g	71%
Total Sugars 9.60g
Protein 28.00g	56%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 125mg	10%
Iron 8mg	46%
Potassium 1448mg	31%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 30.3%

Protein: 13.3%

Carbs: 56.4%