Name: Moms Authentic Puerto Rican Rice & Beans Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 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 dish has always been a staple in my home, bringing warmth and comfort with every bite. This traditional Puerto Rican arroz con habichuelas is a celebration of flavors, incorporating the beloved sofrito and sazón, and pairing it perfectly with fluffy medium-grain rice. It’s not just food; it’s a connection to my heritage and the essence of Puerto Rican cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Moms Authentic Puerto Rican

This dish embodies the heart of genuine Puerto Rican cuisine. With its rich aroma and vibrant colors, it’s both visually and emotionally satisfying. You’ll appreciate the traditional Puerto Rican cooking techniques that have been passed down through generations. The combination of beans and rice not only creates a complete meal but also showcases the best Puerto Rican comfort food. Plus, it’s a vegetarian option, making it perfect for everyone at the table.

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 Best Moms Authentic Puerto Rican

Keep these in mind:

Using fresh sofrito enhances the flavor immensely.
Let the beans simmer longer if you prefer a thicker consistency.
Always rinse the rice until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, which helps achieve the perfect texture.

Best Ways to Serve Moms Authentic Puerto Rican

This dish is best served hot, often accompanied by a side of avocado or a fresh salad. You can even pair it with fried plantains for an authentic touch. These combinations enhance the authentic Puerto Rican flavors and create a well-rounded meal.

How to Store and Reheat Moms Authentic Puerto Rican

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water and microwave until heated through or heat in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally. This is a great meal prep option for busy weeks!

Frequently Asked Questions About Moms Authentic Puerto Rican

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

The secret lies in the quality of the sofrito and allowing the beans to simmer adequately, which infuses them with rich flavors. Using fresh ingredients is crucial for the best taste.

Can I make Moms Authentic Puerto Rican ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for an easy meal option.

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

Make sure to rinse your rice thoroughly to avoid a gummy texture. Also, ensure the beans are well-cooked to enhance the overall dish and don’t skip on the seasoning!

Variations of Moms Authentic Puerto Rican You Can Try

For a twist, consider adding different types of beans such as black beans or kidney beans. You can also add diced ham or smoked sausage for a meatier flavor. If you’re looking for a spicier kick, try adding jalapeños or hot sauce. Each variation brings a unique taste while staying true to traditional Puerto Rican family recipes.