Mexican Chipotle Rice & Black Beans 🇲🇽

Smoky, Spicy, and Packed with Bold Mexican Flavors

Mexican Chipotle Rice & Black Beans is a hearty, flavorful, and protein-rich dish that captures the essence of Mexican cuisine. Infused with smoky chipotle peppers, zesty lime, and fresh cilantro, this vibrant dish is perfect as a main course or a delicious side to tacos, burritos, or grilled vegetables.

🥣 Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

For the Rice:

✅ 1 cup long-grain white or brown rice

✅ 2 cups vegetable broth or water

✅ 1 tbsp olive oil

✅ 1 small onion, finely chopped

✅ 2 cloves garlic, minced

✅ 1 tsp smoked paprika

✅ 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped (adjust for spice level)

✅ 1 tsp cumin powder

✅ ½ tsp salt

✅ 1 medium tomato, finely diced

✅ ½ cup corn kernels (optional)

✅ ½ cup black beans, drained and rinsed

✅ 1 tbsp tomato paste

✅ Juice of 1 lime

✅ ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For Serving:

✅ Lime wedges

✅ Sliced avocado

✅ Pickled red onions (optional)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Sauté the Aromatics – Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

2️⃣ Spice It Up – Add smoked paprika, cumin, and chopped chipotle pepper. Stir for 1 minute until fragrant.

3️⃣ Toast the Rice – Add the rice and stir to coat with the spices and oil. Toast for about 2 minutes.

4️⃣ Simmer to Perfection – Stir in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, salt, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce heat to low. Let it cook for 15-18 minutes (white rice) or 35-40 minutes (brown rice) until tender.

5️⃣ Add the Final Touches – Stir in corn, black beans, lime juice, and fresh cilantro. Fluff with a fork and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.

6️⃣ Serve & Enjoy! – Garnish with lime wedges, sliced avocado, and pickled red onions.

🍽️ Best Pairings for Chipotle Rice & Black Beans

🌮 Tacos or Burrito Bowls – The perfect filling for vegan tacos or bowls.

🥑 Guacamole & Salsa – Brightens up the smoky flavors.

🌶️ Roasted Veggies – Pairs well with grilled peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.

🌍 Cultural Insights & Historical Notes

This dish is inspired by Mexican arroz rojo (red rice), a classic in Mexican households. The addition of chipotle peppers gives it a smoky depth that pairs perfectly with black beans. It’s a staple in Mexican cuisine, enjoyed both as a side dish and as part of main meals.