Name: Moms Authentic Puerto Rican Rice & Beans Recipe to Relish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 0.5 cup sofrito; 0.5 onion (diced); 0.5 green bell pepper (diced); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 packet sazón con culantro y achiote; 1.5 tsp adobo seasoning; 0.5 cup tomato sauce; 1 can pink beans (drained and rinsed); 1 cup broth or water; 1-2 bay leaves; 2 cups medium-grain rice (rinsed); 2 tbsp oil; 1 tsp salt; 2.5 cups water

Moms Authentic Puerto Rican rice and beans, or arroz con habichuelas, is a dish that truly embodies the heart of Puerto Rican cuisine. This traditional recipe, made with savory sofrito and perfectly cooked beans, is often a staple in the homes of many, especially among Authentic Puerto Rican moms. The comforting aroma of garlic and spices fills the kitchen, creating a warm atmosphere that resonates with family gatherings and cherished memories. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that not only satisfies your taste buds but also connects you to Puerto Rican family traditions.

Why You’ll Love This Moms Authentic Puerto Rican

This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of traditional Puerto Rican motherhood and family values. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this recipe:

It’s packed with flavor from the sofrito, a mixture of herbs, spices, and vegetables.
Perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner that takes less than an hour to prepare.
The use of pink beans offers a wholesome, vegetarian option.
It brings families together, making it an ideal dish for gatherings and celebrations.
You’ll learn how to cook Puerto Rican dishes with mom, ensuring the recipe is passed down through generations.
It’s a beautiful representation of genuine Puerto Rican parenting and cultural heritage.

Ingredients for Moms Authentic Puerto Rican

Gather these items:

2 tbsp olive oil
0.5 cup sofrito
0.5 onion (diced)
0.5 green bell pepper (diced)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 packet sazón con culantro y achiote
1.5 tsp adobo seasoning
0.5 cup tomato sauce
1 can pink beans (drained and rinsed)
1 cup broth or water
1-2 bay leaves
2 cups medium-grain rice (rinsed)
2 tbsp oil
1 tsp salt
2.5 cups water

How to Make Moms Authentic Puerto Rican Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a pot and sauté sofrito, onions, peppers, and garlic until fragrant.
Step 2: Stir in sazón, adobo, and tomato sauce.
Step 3: Add beans, broth, and bay leaves, then simmer for 20–25 minutes.
Step 4: Rinse rice until water runs clearer.
Step 5: Heat oil in a caldero, add rice and salt, stirring to coat.
Step 6: Add water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover for 18–20 minutes.
Step 7: Fluff rice and serve with beans.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Moms Authentic Puerto Rican

Keep these in mind:

Using fresh sofrito enhances flavor significantly.
Ensure your beans are well-simmered to absorb all the spices.
Keep an eye on the rice as it cooks to avoid burning, especially in a stovetop method.

Best Ways to Serve Moms Authentic Puerto Rican

This dish shines when served with:

Grilled chicken or fish for a protein boost.
A side of avocado salad to add freshness.
Some fried plantains for a delightful crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions About Moms Authentic Puerto Rican

What’s the secret to perfect Moms Authentic Puerto Rican?

The secret lies in the sazón and sofrito. These ingredients bring the dish to life, providing depth and flavor that evoke real Puerto Rican mom experiences.

Can I make Moms Authentic Puerto Rican ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beans and rice separately, storing them in the fridge. Reheat them together for a quick meal. This method is great for busy days and reflects the Puerto Rican mom lifestyle.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Moms Authentic Puerto Rican?

Common mistakes include overcooking the rice or not rinsing it properly. Make sure to follow the steps closely for the best results, honoring Puerto Rican mom traditions.

Variations of Moms Authentic Puerto Rican You Can Try

Here are some delightful variations:

Add chorizo or ham for a meatier option.
Substitute black beans for a different flavor profile.
Incorporate vegetables like corn or carrots for added nutrition.
Experiment with spices to customize the taste.

Each of these variations will allow you to embrace your Puerto Rican heritage as a mom, ensuring that your family flavors remain unique and memorable.

Moms Authentic Puerto Rican Rice & Beans Recipe to Relish - Moms Authentic Puerto Rican - main visual representation

For more insights on Puerto Rican cooking, check out this guide on traditional recipes that celebrate the rich culinary heritage.

Moms Authentic Puerto Rican Rice & Beans Recipe to Relish - Moms Authentic Puerto Rican - additional detail

To learn more about the importance of sofrito in Puerto Rican cuisine, visit this informative article.

Finally, if you’re interested in the cultural significance of family meals, explore this resource on family traditions that highlights the role of food in bonding.