Bean and Vegetable Sauté with Rice

This bean and vegetable sauté with rice is a delightful dish that brings together the earthy flavors of dark beans with the sweetness of carrots and the acidity of tomatoes. Enhanced with aromatic garlic and fresh herbs, this versatile recipe is both nourishing and satisfying. It's quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a last-minute meal plan. While the beans add protein and fiber to the dish, the fresh vegetables contribute essential vitamins and minerals. The sautéed onions and garlic form a flavorful base, which is further enhanced by a hint of creaminess from optional sour cream. Garnished with dill and scallions, each mouthful bursts with flavor and texture. Pairing this dish with rice transforms it into a complete meal, ensuring it's filling and comforting. Whether you're a vegetarian or just looking for a meat-free option, this sauté will become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 medium carrots
2 tomatoes
1 onion
2 cloves garlic
1 can of dark beans
2 teaspoons sour cream (optional)
Oil for cooking

Spices and Herbs

1 seasoning cube
Dill (dried or fresh)
Pepper to taste
Scallions for garnish

Preparation Time

Total Time: 25 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Start by preparing the ingredients. Peel and finely chop the onion. Grate the carrots using a medium grater. Dice the tomatoes and mince the garlic cloves.
Heat the oil. Pour a small amount of oil into a pot or deep pan and heat over low flame.
Sauté the onion. Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until it becomes translucent and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Cook the rice. Simultaneously, begin cooking the rice according to package instructions, as it will be served with the sauté.
Add the carrots. Incorporate the grated carrots into the pot with the onions. Stir occasionally, adding more oil if necessary, and allow the carrots to soften slightly, which will take about 5-10 minutes.
Introduce the tomatoes, garlic, and beans. Add the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, and canned dark beans, including the liquid from the can, to the pot.
Season the dish. Stir in the seasoning cube, a pinch of pepper, and a sprinkle of dried or fresh dill. Mix everything well, ensuring the spices and flavors meld together.
Allow the flavors to blend. Cover the pot and let the sauté simmer over low heat until all the ingredients are cooked through and the flavors have developed.
Finish with sour cream. If using, swirl in the sour cream just before serving for an extra layer of richness.
Serve with rice. On a plate, spoon the rice alongside the sauté, and garnish with chopped scallions for a fresh touch.
Enjoy your meal! Dive into this hearty, flavorful dish.

Tips

Substitutions: Use any type of beans you prefer, such as black beans or kidney beans. For a vegan version, skip the sour cream or use a plant-based alternative.
Flavor Boost: Add a splash of lemon juice for a fresh zing, or top with shredded cheese for extra indulgence.
Rice Options: Try serving with brown rice or quinoa for a healthy twist.

Nutrition

Calories: Around 300 per serving
Protein: Approximately 10g
Fats: Roughly 8g
Carbohydrates: Approximately 45g

Variations

Swap out scallions for chives or parsley.
Add sliced bell peppers for a pop of color and sweetness.
Incorporate spices like cumin or paprika for a smoky flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a simple tomato and cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Complement the dish with a glass of chilled white wine.

Best Places

The Bean Café - Famous for its hearty vegetarian dishes and welcoming atmosphere. Location: 123 Elm Street, Seattle, USA.
Dill & Thyme Bistro - Rustic charm with a focus on fresh produce and delicious bean-based recipes. Location: 456 Oak Road, Dublin, Ireland.
Garlic Lovers' Hub - Known for its garlicky delights and cozy setting. Location: 789 Vine Lane, Florence, Italy.
Tomato Paradise - A vibrant spot dedicated to creative tomato dishes. Location: 321 Olive Boulevard, Barcelona, Spain.
Rice & Spice Corner - Specializes in rice dishes accompanied by flavorful sides. Location: 135 Jasmine Avenue, Mumbai, India.
Sauté Sensations - Celebrated for its sautéed vegetable specialties. Location: 246 Cedar Drive, Cape Town, South Africa.
Herb Haven - Focus on fresh herbs enhancing every dish. Location: 841 Willow Street, Paris, France.
Simple Eats - Offering uncomplicated yet delicious meals inspired by local markets. Location: 753 Maple Road, Toronto, Canada.
Bounty Beans - A creative take on classic bean dishes. Location: 963 Birch Street, Sydney, Australia.
The Sizzling Pot - Known for its sizzling sauté platters. Location: 129 Palm Lane, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.