Caribbean inspired Rice Bowl

Good

% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Step 1

1. Prepare the Stewed Beans:

Step 2

• If using dried beans: Soak the kidney beans in water overnight. Drain and rinse them before cooking. In a large pot, add the beans, vegetable broth, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1-2 hours or until the beans are tender. Drain and set aside.

Step 3

• For canned beans: Skip the soaking and simmering steps.

Step 4

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.

Step 5

• Add the minced garlic and diced bell pepper, and sauté for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 6

• Stir in the diced tomato, cumin, paprika, coriander, and turmeric. Cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 7

• Add the cooked (or canned) kidney beans to the skillet. Stir well and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes. If the mixture seems too thick, add a little water or broth.

Step 8

• Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro.

Step 9

2. Cook the Rice:

Step 10

• In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rice, butter or oil, and a pinch of salt.

Step 11

• Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Step 12

• Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Step 13

3. Fry the Plantains:

Step 14

• Peel the plantains and slice them diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces.

Step 15

• Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the plantain slices in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap.

Step 16

• Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.

Step 17

• Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt.

Step 18

4. Prepare the Avocado:

Step 19

• Slice the avocado and drizzle with lime juice (optional) to prevent browning. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt.

Step 20

5. Assemble the Dish:

Step 21

• Serve a portion of rice on each plate.

Step 22

• Spoon the stewed beans next to the rice.

Step 23

• Add a few slices of fried plantains to the plate.

Step 24

• Place avocado slices on the side.

Step 25

• Optionally, garnish with additional fresh herbs.