Tex Mex Black Beans Saffron Rice

Elevate your weeknight dinners with this vibrant Tex-Mex Black Beans Saffron Rice recipe, a perfect harmony of bold flavors and comforting textures. Fragrant saffron-infused rice serves as the base, offering a golden hue and subtle floral notes, while warmly spiced black beans, seasoned with smoked paprika and cumin, bring a rich and savory depth. This quick and easy meal comes together in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings. Brightened with fresh lime juice and cilantro, and customizable with toppings like avocado, shredded cheese, or salsa, this dish is a versatile showstopper that's both hearty and healthy. Perfectly blending Tex-Mex flair with a touch of elegance, it's a flavorful way to spice up your dinner rotation!

Nutriscore Rating: 76/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups long-grain white rice
• 0.5 teaspoons saffron threads
• 2 tablespoons warm water
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 3 cups chicken or vegetable stock
• 2 cups black beans, cooked or canned (rinsed and drained)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 0.5 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 0 optional toppings: diced avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, or salsa

Directions

Step 1

In a small bowl, combine the saffron threads with warm water and let them steep for 5-10 minutes to release their flavor and color.

Step 2

Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Set it aside to drain.

Step 3

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 4

Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Step 5

Stir in the rinsed rice and lightly toast it with the onion and garlic for 1-2 minutes, ensuring all the grains are coated in oil.

Step 6

Pour in the saffron water, chicken or vegetable stock, and 0.5 teaspoon of kosher salt. Stir well, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 7

While the rice is cooking, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the black beans, ground cumin, smoked paprika, 0.5 teaspoon of kosher salt, and black pepper, stirring to combine. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are warmed through and flavorful.

Step 8

Once the rice is done, remove it from the heat and fluff it gently with a fork. Stir in the lime juice and chopped cilantro for added brightness.

Step 9

Serve the saffron rice topped with the spiced black beans. Optionally, garnish with diced avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, or salsa to suit your preferences.

Step 10

Enjoy your Tex-Mex Black Beans Saffron Rice as a hearty and satisfying meal!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1852.1 grams (1852.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1420

Total Fat 54.60g	70%
Saturated Fat 8.60g	43%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.00g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 4077mg	177%
Total Carbohydrate 192.30g	70%
Dietary Fiber 36.50g	130%
Total Sugars 10.60g
Protein 45.00g	90%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 329mg	25%
Iron 15mg	83%
Potassium 2051mg	44%

*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: 34.1%

Protein: 12.5%

Carbs: 53.4%