Taco Bell Black Beans and Rice Recipe

If you’re a fan of bold flavors and easy cooking, this Taco Bell-inspired Black Beans and Rice recipe is about to become your new favorite! It’s a vibrant combination of tender black beans, fluffy brown rice, and a medley of herbs, spices, and sauce like Taco Bell Lava Sauce, all tied together with a hint of citrusy tang.

Perfect as a comforting side dish or a standalone meal, this recipe is not only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish will deliver a mouthwatering experience in every bite!

What Does Taco Bell Black Beans and Rice Taste Like?

Taco Bell Black Beans and Rice offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The fluffy brown rice absorbs the zesty kick of lemon juice, while the black beans add a hearty, creamy contrast. Aromatic garlic, onions, and tomatoes provide a savory base, enhanced by the earthy notes of rosemary and thyme.

A sprinkle of cayenne pepper and chili powder adds just the right amount of heat for a mildly spicy finish. Garnished with parsley, it’s a vibrant, wholesome dish with a perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and savory elements, if you can add some Taco Bell Avocado Verde Salsa on it.

Ingredients Required for Taco Bell Black Beans and Rice Recipe

Here’s the list of Ingredients you’ll need to make this Delicious Black Beans and Rice by Taco Bell

• ½ tbsp. olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp. yellow onions, minced
• 2 cups tomatoes, diced
• ½ tsp rosemary, dried
• ½ tsp thyme, dried
• 3 cups brown rice
• ½ cup lemon juice
• 3 cups water
• ½ cup black beans
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
• ½ tsp chili powder
• Parsley (Optional, for garnish)

Kitchen Utensil You’ll Need

1. Frying pan
2. Rice cooker
3. Wooden spoon or spatula
4. Mixing bowl
5. Measuring cups and spoons

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Copycat Taco Bell Black Beans and Rice Recipe

Simply follow the steps given below to make your Black Beans and Rice Recipe in Taco Bell style at home

1. Sauté the Aromatics
In a frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, yellow onions, and diced tomatoes. Sauté for about 4 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the onions turn translucent.

2. Add Herbs and Rice
Sprinkle in the dried rosemary and thyme. Then, add the brown rice to the pan and continue to sauté for another 2 minutes. The rice will lightly toast, enhancing its nutty flavor.

3. Infuse with Lemon
Pour in the lemon juice, stirring continuously to ensure the rice is evenly coated. This step gives the dish its signature tangy kick.

4. Cook the Rice
Transfer the sautéed rice mixture to your rice cooker. Add 3 cups of water, then set the rice cooker to the appropriate cooking setting. Allow it to cook until the rice is tender and fluffy.

5. Mix in the Beans and Spices
Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Add the black beans, cayenne pepper, and chili powder. Mix thoroughly to combine the flavors.

6. Garnish and Serve
For an optional touch of freshness, garnish with parsley and mix with Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Sauce. Serve your Taco Bell-inspired Black Beans and Rice hot, and enjoy! 

Some Tasty Ways To Customize and Serve This Taco Bell Black Beans and Rice

1. Taco Filling
Use the black beans and rice as a hearty filling for soft or hard-shell tacos. Add lettuce, cheese, and salsa for a complete taco experience.

2. Burrito Base
Wrap the mixture in a large tortilla with guacamole, shredded cheese, and sour cream for a quick and satisfying burrito.

3. Bowl Meal
Create a flavorful rice bowl by topping it with grilled chicken, beef, or roasted vegetables. Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or crema for extra creaminess.

4. Stuffed Bell Peppers
Hollow out bell peppers, stuff them with the rice and beans mixture, and bake until the peppers are tender.

5. Quesadilla Filling
Spread the black beans and rice between two tortillas with shredded cheese, then grill until golden and crispy.

6. Side Dish for Grilled Proteins
Serve as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a wholesome, well-rounded meal.

7. Topped with Fried Egg
Turn it into a breakfast dish by adding a sunny-side-up egg on top. The yolk adds richness and pairs wonderfully with the spices.

8. Lettuce Wraps
Scoop the mixture into large lettuce leaves for a light, low-carb option. Add a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.

9. Nachos Topping
Layer tortilla chips with the rice and beans, sprinkle with cheese, and bake until melted. Top with jalapeños, guacamole, and sour cream.

10. Soup Base
Transform the dish into a hearty soup by adding vegetable or chicken broth, diced bell peppers, and corn. Simmer until warm and serve with crusty bread.

Some Tips on This Taco Bell Black Beans and Rice Recipe

1. Use Fresh Ingredients
Opt for fresh garlic, onions, and tomatoes to enhance the overall flavor of the dish. Fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference.

2. Toast the Rice
Sautéing the rice with rosemary and thyme before cooking not only adds a nutty aroma but also deepens its flavor.

3. Rinse the Rice
Rinse your brown rice thoroughly to remove excess starch. This prevents it from becoming too sticky.

4. Adjust the Spice Level
If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper and chili powder. For extra heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.

5. Experiment with Beans
While black beans are classic, you can substitute them with kidney beans or pinto beans for a twist.

6. Use Vegetable Broth Instead of Water
Replace water with vegetable broth when cooking the rice for added depth and richness.

7. Don’t Skip the Lemon Juice
Lemon juice brightens the dish and adds a zesty kick. You can also substitute it with lime juice for a slightly different tang.

8. Let the Rice Rest
After cooking, allow the rice to sit for 5–10 minutes in the rice cooker. This helps the grains absorb flavors evenly and prevents clumping.

9. Garnish Thoughtfully
Fresh parsley is a great garnish, but you can also add a sprinkle of shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flair.

10. Make It a Meal
Transform this side dish into a complete meal by adding sautéed vegetables, grilled chicken, or tofu. Wrap it in a tortilla for a hearty burrito!

How to Store and Reheat this Black Beans and Rice?

To store, transfer the cooled black beans and rice into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

For reheating, place it in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle with a little water to prevent drying, and microwave for 1-2 minutes. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Common Queries on This Taco Bell Black Beans and Rice Recipe

Here, we’ve got you covered with some common questions about the Taco Bell Black Beans and Rice Recipe that people often ask.

1. What are the ingredients in Taco Bell black beans?

Taco Bell’s black beans are typically seasoned with a blend of spices, such as garlic, cumin, and chili powder. They are cooked to tender perfection and often paired with rice or used as a filling for tacos and burritos.

2. Is Taco Bell black beans and rice good?

Absolutely! Taco Bell’s black beans and rice are a flavorful and hearty combination. The spices and tangy flavors make it a versatile side dish or a filling vegetarian option.

3. Are black beans from Taco Bell healthy?

Black beans are a great source of protein and fiber, making them a nutritious choice. However, like most fast food, the overall health factor depends on added seasonings and sodium levels. Preparing them at home allows for more control over the ingredients.

4. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan! It uses plant-based ingredients like olive oil, black beans, tomatoes, and brown rice without any animal-derived products.

5. What kind of rice works best for this recipe?

Brown rice is the ideal choice for its nutty flavor and chewy texture, but you can substitute it with white rice or even quinoa for a quicker cooking option.

6. Can I add more vegetables to the recipe?

Definitely! You can include bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for extra color, flavor, and nutrients.

7. What makes the dish spicy?

The cayenne pepper and chili powder add a spicy kick. You can adjust these spices to suit your heat tolerance.

8. Can I prepare this dish without a rice cooker?

Yes, if you don’t have a rice cooker, simply cook the rice on the stovetop in a covered pot with 3 cups of water. Simmer until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.

9. How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to maintain moisture.

10. Can I use canned black beans?

Yes, canned black beans are a convenient option. Rinse and drain them before adding them to the cooked rice for the best flavor and texture.

With this recipe, you’ll bring a bit of Taco Bell magic into your kitchen. It’s quick, flavorful, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!

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