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Black Bean Bowls

Black Bean Bowls

The ultimate comfort food, Black Bean Bowls are packed with flavor and nutrition. This easy weeknight dinner combines creamy coconut milk, hearty black beans, and fresh toppings that make each bite a delight. Perfect for meal prep or sharing with loved ones, you’ll want to make this dish tonight!
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

  • 1-1/2 cups black beans
  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • 1 can coconut milk 13.5-ounce, full-fat
  • 3 limes
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/3 cup roasted and salted cashews
  • 1 cup cilantro leaves and stems
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 cup diced ripe mango
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped jalapeños stems and seeds removed
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion

Equipment

  • Small blender
  • Large pan

Method
 

  1. Zest the limes using a zester to obtain about 1-1/2 teaspoons of zest. Then, juice the limes using a citrus juicer to gather about 5 tablespoons of lime juice.
  2. For the sauce, place the cashews in a heatproof bowl and pour in about 1 cup of boiling water over them. Allow them to soak for about 1 hour, then thoroughly drain the cashews.
  3. Next, combine the drained cashews, cilantro, lime juice and zest, 1/3 cup of water, olive oil, garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste in a small, high-powered blender. Blend until completely smooth.
  4. Place the sauce in the fridge to chill, allowing the flavors to intensify and meld together. This sauce can be made ahead of time and refrigerated; just give it a stir before serving.
  5. Next, prepare the black beans according to your preference (see note 1).
  6. For the coconut-lime rice, rinse the basmati rice in a fine-mesh sieve. In a large pan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, 1/2 cup of water, and 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt (or to taste).
  7. Stir the mixture and bring it to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid. Allow the rice to simmer for 13 to 18 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed.
  8. After cooking, remove the pan from heat, keeping it covered, and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. This resting period is crucial; don’t rush it, or the rice may become sticky!
  9. Once rested, fluff the rice with a fork and fold in the zest and juice of 1 lime to incorporate the citrus flavor.
  10. In a small bowl, combine the diced mango, chopped jalapeños, and red onion. Drizzle with some lime juice (I typically add about 1 tablespoon) and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss the mixture to combine.
  11. To assemble, divide the coconut rice evenly among four bowls or plates. Top each portion with the prepared black beans and the mango topping.
  12. Feel free to add any other desired toppings like additional cilantro, cotija cheese, crushed cashews, or a fresh lime wedge. Finally, drizzle the cilantro sauce over the bowls, adjusting the amount to your liking. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Tip 1: If you're short on time, jazz up canned beans by following the black bean portion of the recipe in these Black Bean Tacos.
  • Tip 2: If you choose to make homemade black beans, warm them gently in a pot over medium-low heat to avoid breaking them.
  • Tip 3: If you love the sauce, spoon some over the beans and rice for added flavor!
  • Tip 4: For a quick option, feel free to use pre-cooked beans to save on time.