How to Make Fried Rice and Beans (Gallo Pinto) - A Step-by-Step Guide

Fried Rice and Beans, also known as Gallo Pinto, is a traditional dish from Costa Rica and Nicaragua. This hearty and flavorful dish is a staple in these Central American countries and is often enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Gallo Pinto is a delicious combination of seasoned rice, black beans, and a variety of herbs and spices. It's a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish with other favorite recipes.

This dish is not only tasty but also incredibly n...

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Ingredients

  • 1 pound dry black beans
  • 2 cloves garlic, mashed
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon oil, or as needed
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
  • 1 ½ cups cooked rice

Information

  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 1 hr 20 mins
  • Additional Time: 1 hr
  • Total Time: 2 hrs 30 mins
  • Servings: 1
  • Yield: 1 serving

  • Go through beans and pick out any with holes or rocks. Transfer beans to a large container and cover with several inches of cool water; let soak for at least 1 hour, or overnight.
  • Rinse beans and dump water out. Transfer to a large pan and cover with fresh water by 2 inches. Add garlic and bay leaf and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook until tender, about 1 hour, adding oregano and salt during the last few minutes. Reserve a few spoons of "caldo" (cooking juice) as it cooks.
  • Measure 1/2 cup cooked beans for gallo pinto and reserve remaining beans for another use.
  • For one serving of gallo pinto: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add onion and saute until dark but not burned, 8 to 10 minutes. Add 1/2 cup cooked black beans along with 2 to 3 tablespoons "caldo." Stir in rice and cook until it starts to get crispy 3 to 5 minutes.
  • Nutrition

    1918 cal.

    • Total Fat: 12g
    • Saturated Fat: 3g
    • Sodium: 2353mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 355g
    • Dietary Fiber: 71g
    • Total Sugars: 11g
    • Protein: 105g
    • Vitamin C: 4mg
    • Calcium: 623mg
    • Iron: 27mg
    • Potassium: 6895mg