Hearty Black Bean & Rice Bowl Recipe
This Hearty Black Bean & Rice Bowl is a true Southern comfort dish that’s both filling and customizable.
Perfect for meal prep or family dinners, it’s layered with protein-rich black beans, fluffy medium-grain rice, and a variety of tasty toppings that bring a Southwestern flair.
This bowl is a great go-to for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, making everyone feel like they’re digging into a home-cooked feast.
What’s fantastic about this bowl is its versatility. The base is made up of delicious, slow-cooked black beans, seasoned to perfection, and fluffy rice that makes every bite satisfying.
From there, you can add the tangy richness of sour cream, creamy cheddar cheese, and mild salsa to bring out a depth of flavors.
Hearty Black Bean & Rice Bowl
This Hearty Black Bean & Rice Bowl is a comforting, protein-rich meal that brings together homemade black beans, tender rice, and your favorite toppings. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep, allowing everyone to customize with their favorite Southern-inspired toppings.
Ingredients:
- homemade black beans (recipe below)
- cooked medium grain rice
- sour cream
- medium cheddar cheese, shredded
- mild salsa
- Optional toppings: black olives, avocados, lettuce, onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, jalapeños, and any preferred protein
Instructions:
- Prepare the Black Beans
- Cook the Rice
- Prep Your Toppings
- Assemble the Bowls
Tips for the Best Black Bean & Rice Bowl:
- Fresh Toppings: Freshly chopped veggies and herbs bring bright flavor and crunch.
- Protein Boost: For added protein, try topping with grilled chicken, ground beef, or even crumbled tofu.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to three days, perfect for easy lunches!
Homemade Black Beans: The Southern Way
To make this bowl authentically Southern, I cook the black beans from scratch.
Slow-cooking beans gives them a rich, tender texture and allows the flavors of garlic, cumin, and pepper to shine.
You’ll find that homemade beans make all the difference in creating a hearty, wholesome bowl.
Make It Your Own
The beauty of this recipe is in the toppings!
Classic ingredients like black olives, avocados, bell peppers, and tomatoes give the dish vibrant color and extra flavor.
For a little spice, add sliced jalapeños, or if you’re looking for added protein, grilled chicken or beef makes a great addition.
With each bowl, you can layer flavors and textures to suit your taste.
This hearty bowl is an ideal Southern dish to share with friends and family or to make ahead and enjoy throughout the week.
Hearty Black Bean & Rice Bowl
Equipment
- 1 large slow cooker
- 1 large pot or rice cooker
Ingredients
- 1 lb homemade black beans (recipe below)
- 10 cups cooked medium grain rice
- 16 oz jar of sour cream
- 16 oz medium cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 cups mild salsa
- Optional toppings: black olives, avocados, lettuce, onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, jalapeños, and any preferred protein
Instructions
- Prepare the Black Beans: Cook a batch of homemade black beans in a slow cooker (see the full recipe below).
- Cook the Rice:Bring water to a rolling boil in a large non-stick pot.Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Prep Your Toppings: While the rice and beans cook, prep your favorite toppings and any additional proteins. Set aside.
- Assemble the Bowls:Scoop a generous amount of rice into each bowl.Add a few spoonfuls of black beans on top.Layer with shredded cheddar, a dollop of sour cream, and a spoonful of salsa.Top off with your choice of optional toppings and serve warm!
