Black Beans and Coconut Rice with Mango Salsa

So, when my siblings and I were growing up, we would go through times here and there when my mom would say to us something to the effect of "we're going to be eating beans and rice for a while," meaning money is tight and we're eating cheap.  I, being my mother's daughter, have also used that phrase a time or two in our marriage, to which my husband would respond, "Great!  I love beans and rice!!"

This is, in fact, a cheap easy meal, but it's still packed with lots of nutrition and flavor!  I was actually drawn to making beans this time because I needed to increase my iron and potassium intake and turns out beans are great for that. 

I couldn't help but make this colorful salsa to top of the rice and beans.  Don't get me wrong, rice and beans are great by themselves but the fresh mango, avocado and tomato and the nice bite from the cilantro really brought it home for me.  Enjoy!


Black Beans and Coconut Rice with Mango Salsa
serves about 4

for the beans:
1 cup thinly sliced celery
2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 small red onion, small diced
juice of 1 lime
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 tsp. cumin
pinch of smoked paprika

for the rice:
1 cup  jasmine rice
1 cup canned coconut milk (preferably full-fat)
1 cup water
pinch of salt
2 Tbsp. flaked coconut (optional)

for the salsa:
1 mango, diced
2 roma tomatoes, diced
1 avocado, diced
1 small anaheim pepper, finely diced (can substitute jalapeno for more heat)
2 green onions, chopped
1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
juice of 1 lime
salt and pepper


In a medium sauce pan, add rice, coconut milk, water, salt and flaked coconut (if desired).  Bring to a boil.  Reduce heat, cover and cook for 20 minutes.

Add the celery, black beans and onion to a salad bowl.  Squeeze lime, drizzle the olive oil and add the cumin and paprika.  Toss to coat.  Add a pinch of salt, if necessary.

In a smaller bowl, add the mango, tomato, avocado, pepper, onion and cilantro. Squeeze lime over it and add salt and pepper to taste.  Stir to coat. 

Once rice is finished cooking, allow to cool slightly.

Serve rice warm or at room temperature, topped with bean mixture and salsa.