Are you looking for a delicious, budget-friendly, and healthy meal that's quick to prepare? Look no further! This Navy Beans and Rice recipe is a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest. It’s a comforting classic, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch. This easy recipe is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried navy beans, rinsed and picked over
- 4 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth for rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
Preparing the Beans:
- In a large pot, combine the navy beans and 4 cups of water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beans are tender. You can also use canned beans for a quicker option; simply drain and rinse one (15-ounce) can before proceeding to the next step.
Sautéing Aromatics:
- While the beans simmer, heat the olive oil in a separate saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
Combining and Simmering:
- Once the beans are cooked, add the sautéed onion mixture to the pot. Stir well to combine the flavors.
Cooking the Rice:
- In the same saucepan you used for the aromatics, rinse the rice thoroughly. Add the rinsed rice and 2 cups of water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed.
Serving:
- Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and gently stir it into the navy bean mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot and enjoy this delicious and healthy meal!
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use vegetable broth instead of water for both the beans and the rice. You can also add a bay leaf while simmering the beans.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add some vegetables: Chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers can be added to the sautéed onions for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Make it a complete protein: Stir in some cooked chicken or sausage for added protein.
- Vegetarian/Vegan Option: This recipe is naturally vegetarian and easily made vegan by ensuring your broth is vegetable-based and omitting any meat additions.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 15-20 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 10-15 grams
This simple Navy Beans and Rice recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy food recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. It’s an easy, affordable, and satisfying meal the whole family will love. The versatility of this dish allows for endless variations, catering to different tastes and dietary preferences. Enjoy!