Saturday, September 7, 2019

Casamiento (Central & South American Rice & Black Beans)

Casamiento (Rice and Black Beans) is another delicious rice and bean dish that is satisfying and nutritious which is naturally gluten-free. It is often served for breakfast in El Salvadore, Honduras, and neighboring countries in Central and South America for a warming, filling and  rib-sticking fare. Sometimes Casamiento is prepared with red beans also. For an authentic breakfast or brunch, serve with sautéed ripe plantains and a dollop of cashew cream.

Casamiento With Corn Salad w/Lime-Maple Dressing
Rice and bean dishes are popular in most cultures; there are countless types and variations on this idea using various types of  beans. While most cuisines have their own special rice and bean recipe, in India there are many as the various regions have their very own such as Pongal, Bisi Bela Rice, Pulagam, Kichdi, etc.

Typically, Casamiento (marriage in Spanish) is prepared with leftover rice and beans, a marriage that is heavenly for the tastebuds! But there is no reason why one has to wait for leftovers; prepare rice and beans specifically for Casamiento and use the leftovers for other dishes.

Use the whole chile including the core for a spicy dish. Beans, rice, and Casamiento freeze well for up to 3 months.

6 Servings

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked Black Beans with their cooking broth
2 cups cooked  Brown/White Rice
1/2 small Onion, finely chopped
1 Jalapeño or Serrano Chile, cored and minced
1 Clove Garlic, mashed
1-2 Tbsp Mexican Seasoning Mix
Salt to taste
2-4 Tbsp fresh Cilantro, chopped fine

Optional Toppings/Sides To Serve:
Avocado Slices
Cilantro leaves
Corn Salad  w/Lime OR Corn Salad With Hatch Chile
sautéed Plantains
Cashew Cream


Method:

Combine onion, chile and garlic in a large pan with a pinch of salt; cook covered with a sprinkle of water if necessary until the veggies are softened, about 4-5 minutes.

Stir in the seasoning mix, beans and rice adding enough of the bean broth/cooking liquid to keep the dish moist.

Simmer stirring occassionally until heated through. Taste and add more seasonings, salt, etc to taste. Stir in the cilantro.

Serve hot with your favorite toppings and sides.

Enjoy!!

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