Spanish Cristianos Y Moros ( Beans and Rice Sidedish)

Cookgirl's Note:

Another variation on the medieval Spanish classic of the black bean and white rice hot dish traditionally known as cristianos y moros. As much a delicious side dish as is the interesting historical significance of the recipe's name. This is from the Beans and Grains cookbook by James McNair. My rule of thumb is to serve warm as a side dish or at room temperature as a salad.

• Total Time: 15 mins
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 0 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 6

• 1 1/2 cups dried black beans
• 1 cup plain long grain white rice
• 3/4 cup minced white onion

Garnish

• red sweet bell pepper, thinly sliced
• fresh Italian parsley or fresh cilantro leaves

DRESSING

• 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (I usually use a little less)
• 6 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 1/4 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 1/2 teaspoons minced fresh garlic (NOT dried)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt (to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper (to taste)

Directions:

1. Soak the dried beans, cook until tender and set aside.
2. Meanwhile, combine all the dressing ingredients and blend well. (This can be done several hours in advance to allow the ingredients to marinate.).
3. Cook the rice until done.
4. Drain the warm beans and transfer 3 cups to a large bowl.
5. Toss the black beans carefully with half of the white onion and half of the dressing.
6. In another bowl, transfer the rice and toss with the remaining onion and dressing.
7. On a large serving platter, arrange the beans on one side and the rice on the other side.
8. Cover and set aside at room temperature for about 1 hour, or refrigerate for up to 2 days.
9. Adjust seasonings if necessary and garnish with red pepper and parsley (or cilantro) if desired.

Reviews

[*Bellinda*]

This is a delicious and easy way to make rice and beans. I added the finely chopped onions to the dressing and let them 'marinate' for a while before adding them to the rice and beans. As suggested, I didn't use the whole amount of olive oil. I will definately make this again! Made for zwt5

[Mami J]

I scaled this down for 3 servings and my 4 yo son and I really enjoyed it. I used a bit less garlic and lime juice, because it was handy. Thank you for posting! Made for ZWT 5.

[*Parsley*]

I never knew rice and beans could be sooooo delicious! I made this just as written (cutting the oil back to 1/2 cup), and wouldn't change a thing! The flavors are amazing. I enjoyed this warm and at room temperature. I mixed some of the chopped cilantro right into the dressing as well as saving some for garnish. Thanx for posting this. I'll be making this a lot.