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Rice and Beans

This classic rice and beans dish is a staple of plant-based cooking, offering a satisfying blend of textures and savoury flavours. By sautéing aromatic onion, green pepper, and garlic before simmering, you create a fragrant base that elevates the humble kidney bean into something truly comforting. It is a vibrant, colourful meal that relies on store-cupboard essentials, making it an excellent choice for a nutritious dinner when time is short.

As a protein-rich vegan main, this recipe is both budget-friendly and versatile. The use of boil-in-bag rice ensures a quick cooking time and perfectly fluffy results every time. Serve it as a stand-alone lunch or as a side dish alongside grilled vegetables or a crisp green salad for a balanced, heart-healthy meal the whole family will enjoy.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Rice and Beans

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 medium onion, peeled and chopped

  • 1 medium green pepper, seeded and chopped

  • 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

  • 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt

  • 1 400g box boil-in-bag rice, uncooked

  • 1 400g can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed

  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

How to make Rice and Beans

  1. Heat the olive oil in a heavy saucepan over medium-high heat.

  2. Add the onion, pepper, garlic, and salt and sauté, stirring, for about 5 minutes.

  3. Pour the rice from the bag into the pan, then stir in the beans and 300ml water. Bring to a boil.

  4. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer until the liquid is absorbed, 10 to 15 minutes.

  5. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes.

  6. Season with the black pepper, stir gently, and serve.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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