Cuban-Inspired Black Beans and Rice

This simple dish of black beans served over rice has come to be known as a regional standard in Florida due to the popularization of black beans by the Cuban-American community. Once you have your cooked beans on hand, this recipe requires a minimum of effort. Photos by Evan Atlas.

Cuban-Inspired Black Beans and Rice

Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 1 large onion, finely chopped 
• 1 medium green or red bell pepper, finely diced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 1/2–4 cups cooked black beans (from about 1 2/3 cups raw), or 2 (15–16 oz) cans, drained and rinsed
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• salt and freshly ground black pepper
• a few grains of cayenne pepper
• 1/2 cup water or cooking liquid from beans
• hot cooked brown rice
• 1 small onion, finely chopped, for optional garnish

Instructions

1. Heat 1 1/2 tablespoons of the oil in a large skillet. Add the onion and sauté until they over medium-low heat…