Cuban Black Beans & Rice with Chimichurri

Recipe Difficulty: Easy

Cuban black beans, also known as frijoles negros, have a long history in Cuban cuisine. The dish is believed to have originated with the indigenous Taíno people, who were the original inhabitants of Cuba before the arrival of the Spanish. They used to prepare a bean stew similar to the current black bean dishes.

My Black Beans & Rice Recipe Notes
The first time I had black beans like this was at a Cuban Restaurant in Florida. I fell in love with Cuban food instantly. The combination of  Black Beans with Chimichurri is absolutely delicious and  It's a meal that I've been making for years now. It's super healthy, packs a flavour punch and is super easy to prepare.....not to mention easy on the wallet. ​It's also somehow just really satisfying food. You can serve the black beans over rice, or just mix roughly equal parts cooked rice and black beans together and serve it that way. (I gravitate towards mixing them together)  I made 2 cups of rice and that was too much. Guessing more like 1 to 1 1/2 cups of rice would be plenty. 

"SOFRITO", the flavour base of cuban cooking. 
In Cuban cooking, the flavor base is often built using a combination of aromatic ingredients known as "sofrito." Sofrito serves as the foundation for many Cuban dishes, adding depth, richness, and complexity to the final flavors. While there can be variations in the ingredients used, a typical Cuban sofrito consists of the following components:

Onions: Finely chopped onions are sautéed in oil until translucent. They provide a sweet and savory base to the dish.

Garlic: Minced garlic is added to the onions and cooked until fragrant. Garlic adds a pungent and aromatic flavor that is essential in Cuban cuisine.

Bell Peppers: Green bell peppers (and sometimes red or yellow) are diced and added to the sofrito. They contribute a mild sweetness and a hint of bitterness to the dish.

Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes or tomato paste are often included in Cuban sofrito. They add a rich, tangy flavor and help create a thick sauce.

Herbs and Spices: Common herbs and spices used in Cuban sofrito include oregano, cumin, bay leaves, and sometimes paprika or cayenne pepper for heat. These seasonings add depth of flavor and enhance the overall taste profile.

Chimichurri
Chimichurri is a flavorful sauce and condiment that originates from Argentina and Uruguay, although it's also widely enjoyed in other South American countries. It's typically served as an accompaniment to grilled meats, particularly beef, but it can also be used as a marinade or dressing for vegetables.

The traditional ingredients in chimichurri include:

Parsley/Cilantro Fresh flat-leaf parsley is a key component of chimichurri, providing a fresh and herbaceous flavor. While not traditional in Argentinean chimichurri, cilantro is sometimes added for variation particularly in other South American countries.

Garlic: Minced garlic adds a pungent and aromatic element to chimichurri, enhancing its flavor profile.

Oil: Olive oil is commonly used in chimichurri, although other neutral oils like vegetable oil can also be used. The oil helps bind the ingredients together and adds richness to the sauce.

Vinegar: Red wine vinegar or white vinegar is typically used to add acidity and brightness to chimichurri. It balances the flavors and helps cut through the richness of the oil.

Red Pepper Flakes: For a bit of heat, red pepper flakes or fresh chili peppers can be added to chimichurri. The amount can be adjusted based on personal preference.

Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that help enhance the overall flavor of chimichurri.

Optional ingredients that are sometimes included in chimichurri recipes are:

Oregano: Some recipes call for dried oregano, which adds a savory and earthy flavor to the sauce.

Lemon or Lime Juice: Adding a splash of citrus juice can brighten the flavors of chimichurri and add a hint of tanginess.

​To make chimichurri, the ingredients are typically chopped, minced, or blended together until they reach the desired consistency. Some prefer a chunkier texture, while others prefer a smoother sauce. Chimichurri can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for several days to allow the flavors to meld together before serving. It's a versatile and delicious condiment that adds a burst of flavor to your favourite protein, vegetables, sandwiches, and more.

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