Spanish Rice and Beans with Bacon Recipe

This is a delightful recipe for those who crave the warm, comforting flavors of a hearty Spanish rice and beans. The addition of bacon adds a smoky depth to the dish while the jalapenos give it just the right kick. It's a perfect one-pot meal that's sure to leave everyone at your dinner table satisfied.

Photos of Spanish Rice and Beans with Bacon Recipe

All the ingredients are commonly found in your local grocery store. However, be aware that there are several types of beans and rice. For this recipe, we specifically use pinto beans and white rice. Pinto beans are a staple in Mexican cooking and are known for their creamy texture when cooked. White rice absorbs the flavors of the dish well. Also, canola oil is used instead of olive oil, as it has a more neutral flavor.

Ingredients for Spanish Rice and Beans with Bacon

Bacon: Adds a smoky depth to the dish.

Tomatoes: Provides a fresh, tangy flavor.

Jalapeno peppers: Gives the dish a spicy kick.

Onion: Adds a sweet and savory depth to the flavor.

Cilantro: Offers a refreshing and aromatic taste.

Pinto beans: A staple in Mexican cooking known for their creamy texture.

Canola oil: Used for its neutral flavor.

White rice: Absorbs the flavors of the dish well.

Tomato sauce: Enhances the overall taste of the dish with its tangy flavor.

One reader, Honey Criswell says:

This Spanish rice and beans with bacon recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is simply divine. The bacon adds a delicious smokiness, and the jalapeños give it a perfect kick. It's a must-try for anyone who loves hearty and flavorful dishes. Highly recommended!

Honey Criswell

Cooking Techniques to Master for This Recipe

How to cook bacon: Cook bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until evenly browned. Drain bacon slices on paper towels, then chop into bite-sized pieces. Discard half of the bacon grease left in the pan.

How to prepare the rice: Heat canola oil in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Add rice and chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until the rice is brown and the onion is tender.

How to simmer the rice: Stir in water and tomato sauce. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and cook for about 20 minutes until the rice has absorbed the liquids. Stir in the bacon mixture.

How To Make Spanish Rice and Beans with Bacon

Tossed with bacon, jalapeno peppers, and tomatoes, this Spanish rice makes a hearty, flavorful dish everyone will surely enjoy.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour 5 minutes

Total: 1 hour 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

6bacon slices
2tomatoes,seeded and diced
4jalapeno peppers,seeded and diced
1onion,diced
½cupfresh cilantro,chopped, or to taste
30ozpinto beans,(2 cans)
1tbspcanola oil
1cupwhite rice
1small onion,chopped
2cupswater
15oztomato sauce,(1 can)

Instructions

Place bacon in a large skillet and cook over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes turning occasionally, until evenly browned.
Drain bacon slices on paper towels, then chop into bite-sized pieces. Discard half of the bacon grease left in the pan.
Return the skillet to the stovetop and toss in bacon, tomatoes, jalapeno peppers, diced onion, and cilantro. Stir in pinto beans. Cook over low heat for about 30 minutes stirring occasionally, until flavors are blended.
Heat canola oil in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Add rice and chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until rice is brown and onion is tender.
Stir in water and tomato sauce. Bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover saucepan, and cook for about 20 minutes until the rice has absorbed the liquids. Stir in bacon mixture.

Nutrition

Calories: 593.12kcal
Fat: 12.11g
Saturated Fat: 3.36g
Trans Fat: 0.04g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.23g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.47g
Carbohydrates: 92.90g
Fiber: 18.28g
Sugar: 6.49g
Protein: 28.39g
Cholesterol: 14.36mg
Sodium: 414.49mg
Calcium: 142.82mg
Potassium: 1833.84mg
Iron: 6.35mg
Vitamin A: 34.15µg
Vitamin C: 25.01mg

Pro Tip for Perfectly Cooked Rice

When cooking the bacon, it's important to keep an eye on it to prevent it from burning. The goal is to achieve a crispy texture without it becoming too hard or charred. Also, when you're browning the rice in the canola oil, make sure to stir it frequently. This will ensure that each grain gets evenly toasted, which will give your dish a deeper flavor. Lastly, don't rush the simmering process for the rice. It's essential for the rice to absorb all the liquid and flavors from the tomato sauce.

Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks

Prep ahead: Chop and prepare ingredients the night before to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonder: Opt for a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup and save time.

Batch cooking: Make a larger portion and store leftovers for quick and easy meals throughout the week.

Efficient multitasking: While one component is cooking, use that time to prep the next ingredient to maximize efficiency.

Kitchen organization: Keep your kitchen well-organized to easily locate ingredients and utensils, saving time and reducing stress during cooking.

Use canned beans: Utilize canned beans instead of cooking them from scratch to cut down on preparation time.

Pre-measure: Pre-measure ingredients before starting the cooking process to avoid interruptions and save time.

Substitute Ingredients For Spanish Rice and Beans with Bacon Recipe

bacon - Substitute with smoked turkey or tempeh bacon: Smoked turkey or tempeh bacon can provide a similar smoky flavor and texture to the dish while being a healthier alternative to traditional bacon.
tomatoes - Substitute with canned diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute for fresh tomatoes, providing a convenient and flavorful alternative.
jalapeño peppers - Substitute with green bell peppers: Green bell peppers can be used as a milder substitute for jalapeño peppers, adding a subtle sweetness to the dish.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for onions, providing a milder and slightly sweeter flavor to the dish.
fresh cilantro - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro, providing a similar fresh and herbaceous flavor to the dish.
pinto beans - Substitute with black beans: Black beans can be used as a substitute for pinto beans, offering a similar texture and taste to the dish.
canola oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a substitute for canola oil, adding a rich and fruity flavor to the dish.
white rice - Substitute with brown rice: Brown rice can be used as a substitute for white rice, providing a nuttier flavor and additional nutritional benefits.
tomato sauce - Substitute with salsa: Salsa can be used as a substitute for tomato sauce, adding a flavorful and slightly chunky texture to the dish.

Plating Ideas for a Delicious Presentation

Elevate the dish with a bacon garnish: Crisp up some extra bacon and crumble it on top of the rice and beans for an added layer of flavor and texture.
Create a visually appealing plate: Use a ring mold to neatly stack the rice and beans in the center of the plate, and then carefully remove the mold to reveal a perfect circular shape.
Garnish with fresh cilantro: Sprinkle some fresh cilantro leaves on top of the dish to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Serve in a stylish bowl: Choose a beautiful, shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the Spanish rice and beans.
Add a touch of heat with jalapeño slices: Thinly slice some jalapeños and arrange them around the edge of the plate for a spicy and visually striking element.
Incorporate a tomato rose: Create a delicate tomato rose to place on top of the dish, adding an elegant and artistic touch.
Use a drizzle of tomato sauce: Carefully drizzle a small amount of tomato sauce around the edge of the plate for a polished and professional presentation.
Garnish with a sprinkle of diced onions: Finely dice some onions and sprinkle them over the dish for a burst of flavor and a touch of sophistication.
Serve with a side of grilled bread: Accompany the Spanish rice and beans with a side of grilled bread, elegantly arranged on the plate for a complete and satisfying presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools You'll Need

Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and sautéing ingredients.
Paper towels: Absorbent towels used for draining and drying food items.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle and a lid, used for boiling, simmering, and making sauces.
Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, flexible blade, used for lifting, flipping, and spreading ingredients.
Cutting board: A durable board used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile, all-purpose kitchen knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing ingredients.
Wooden spoon: A cooking utensil with a long handle and a rounded head, used for stirring and mixing ingredients.
Skimmer: A utensil with a perforated surface, used for skimming foam or impurities from the surface of liquids.
Can opener: A tool used for opening cans and tins.
Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used for accurately measuring ingredients in cooking and baking.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

Allow the spanish rice and beans with bacon to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For short-term storage, transfer the cooled dish into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4-5 days.
To freeze, portion the cooled spanish rice and beans into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
Freeze the spanish rice and beans with bacon for up to 3 months for optimal quality and flavor.
When ready to reheat, thaw the frozen dish in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheat the thawed spanish rice and beans in a microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a splash of water or chicken broth if needed to restore moisture.
For best results, consume the reheated dish within 2-3 days and do not refreeze previously frozen spanish rice and beans with bacon.

How To Reheat Leftovers for Best Results

The best way to reheat leftover spanish rice and beans with bacon is to use a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in the pan over medium heat, then add the rice and beans. Stir frequently, breaking up any clumps, until the dish is heated through and slightly crispy on the bottom, about 5-7 minutes. This method helps to restore the texture and flavor of the dish.
Another option is to use the microwave. Place the leftover spanish rice and beans in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the dish is heated through. While this method is quick and convenient, it may result in a slightly softer texture compared to the stovetop method.
If you have a bit more time, you can reheat the spanish rice and beans with bacon in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftovers to an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dish is heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to crisp up slightly.
For a unique twist, transform your leftover spanish rice and beans into a breakfast dish by adding a fried egg on top. Reheat the rice and beans using your preferred method, then fry an egg to your liking and serve it over the warm leftovers. The runny yolk will add a rich, creamy element to the dish.
If you find that your leftover spanish rice and beans with bacon have dried out a bit in the refrigerator, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating to help moisten the dish. This works well with both the stovetop and oven methods.

Interesting Trivia About Spanish Rice and Beans

Bacon is a popular ingredient in Spanish cuisine and is often used to add a smoky and savory flavor to dishes. It is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes, including rice and beans.

Budget-Friendly or Splurge-Worthy?

This Spanish rice and beans with bacon recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as rice, pinto beans, bacon, tomatoes, and jalapeño peppers, are generally affordable and readily available. The dish provides a hearty and flavorful meal for a family of four at an approximate cost of $15. The combination of ingredients creates a satisfying and budget-friendly meal, making it a great option for households looking to balance cost and flavor. Overall Verdict: 8/10

Is This Dish Healthy or Not So Much?

This recipe for Spanish rice and beans with bacon has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. Here's a breakdown:

Healthy elements:

Tomatoes, jalapeño peppers, onion, and cilantro provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
Pinto beans are a good source of protein, fiber, and various nutrients
Rice is a gluten-free grain that can provide energy and some nutrients

Unhealthy elements:

Bacon is high in saturated fat and sodium, which can contribute to heart disease and high blood pressure when consumed in excess
The recipe uses bacon grease for cooking, adding more saturated fat to the dish
Tomato sauce may contain added sugars or sodium, depending on the brand used

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use turkey bacon or a lean protein source like chicken breast instead of regular bacon to reduce saturated fat and sodium content
Drain all the bacon grease and use a healthier cooking oil like olive oil instead of canola oil
Choose a low-sodium tomato sauce or make your own using fresh tomatoes to control the sodium content
Increase the amount of vegetables in the dish, such as adding bell peppers or zucchini, to boost the nutrient profile
Use brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber and nutrients
Adjust the amount of jalapeño peppers to your taste preferences, as they can be quite spicy for some people
Serve the dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the meal and add more nutrients

Our Editor's Honest Opinion on This Recipe

The combination of smoky bacon, hearty pinto beans, and zesty jalapeños creates a rich and flavorful base for this Spanish rice and beans dish. However, the recipe could benefit from a few adjustments to enhance the overall flavor profile. Consider adding some cumin and smoked paprika to the rice for a more robust taste, and a splash of lime juice to brighten the flavors. Additionally, incorporating some bell peppers or corn can add a touch of sweetness and color to the dish. Overall, with a few tweaks, this recipe has the potential to be a delicious and satisfying meal.

Enhance Your Spanish Rice and Beans with Bacon Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a savory garlic parmesan topping.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots glazed with a sticky honey glaze for the perfect balance of sweetness and flavor.

Grilled Pineapple Slices: Juicy pineapple slices grilled to perfection, bringing out their natural sweetness and adding a smoky charred flavor.

Similar Recipes to Try Next

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate your favorite vegetables and grill them to perfection for a healthy and delicious side dish or main course.

Braised Beef Short Ribs: Slow cook beef short ribs in a flavorful broth until they are fall-off-the-bone tender, perfect for a comforting and hearty meal.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Combine ripe mangoes, creamy coconut milk, and nutritious chia seeds to create a refreshing and satisfying dessert or breakfast option.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Simmer fresh tomatoes and aromatic basil in a creamy broth for a comforting and classic soup that is perfect for any time of the year.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings to Complete the Meal

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory stuffed mushrooms are filled with a delicious mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, creating a perfect bite-sized appetizer for any occasion. The creamy filling pairs perfectly with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms, making it a crowd-pleasing option for your next gathering.

Bruschetta: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic come together on top of crispy, toasted baguette slices to create a classic bruschetta appetizer. The vibrant colors and bold flavors make this dish a refreshing and satisfying start to any meal. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a light and flavorful snack, bruschetta is always a hit.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Delight in a luscious strawberry cheesecake, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a velvety smooth cream cheese filling. The vibrant strawberries on top add a burst of freshness to every bite.

Why trust this Spanish Rice and Beans with Bacon Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, creating a satisfying and wholesome meal. The savory bacon infuses the dish with rich, smoky notes, complemented by the freshness of tomatoes and the subtle heat of jalapeño peppers. The aromatic blend of onion and cilantro enhances the overall depth of the dish, while the hearty pinto beans provide a good source of protein and fiber. The rice is perfectly cooked and infused with the flavors of the tomato sauce, creating a harmonious balance. This recipe promises a delightful culinary experience that you can trust and enjoy.

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FAQ:

Can I use a different type of bean for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of bean if you prefer. Black beans or kidney beans would work well as substitutes for pinto beans.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of water for the rice to make this recipe vegetarian.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you prefer a spicier dish, you can increase the amount of jalapeño peppers or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the bacon mixture for an extra kick.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rice and beans ahead of time and reheat it when you're ready to serve. Just store the components separately and combine them when reheating.

What can I serve with this dish?

This Spanish rice and beans with bacon recipe pairs well with a variety of sides such as a simple green salad, tortilla chips, or even some grilled vegetables for a complete meal.