Solomon

Solomon Recipe from Cuba - Black Beans and Rice with Fresh Cilantro and Spices

Region / culture: Cuba | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Solomon is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines black beans, rice, and a variety of fresh vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy meal that is packed with flavor and protein.

History

Solomon is a traditional dish that originated in the Caribbean and Latin America. It is a popular dish that is often served at family gatherings and celebrations. The combination of black beans, rice, and fresh vegetables creates a hearty and satisfying meal that is loved by many.

Ingredients

30 oz (850 g) canned black beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups cooked long-grain white rice, or brown
4 scallions, chopped
2 medium tomatoes, diced
1 medium cucumber, peeled and diced
1 jalapeno, seeded and minced
2 tbsp canola oil
1 lime, juiced
2 tbsp chopped cilantro
2 tsp dried oregano
0.5 tsp ground cumin
0.5 tsp black pepper
0.5 tsp salt

How to prepare

In a large mixing bowl, combine the beans, rice, scallions, tomatoes, cucumber, and, if desired, jalapeno.
Blend in the oil, lime juice, cilantro, and seasonings.
Chill for 1 hour before serving.
Tip: for a slight twist, add 2 roasted, seeded, and chopped red bell peppers or try New Mexico chile.

Variations

Add diced avocado or mango for a tropical twist.
Use quinoa instead of rice for a gluten-free option.
Top with crumbled feta cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to rinse the canned black beans thoroughly to remove any excess salt.

- For a spicier version of Solomon, leave the seeds in the jalapeno or add extra hot sauce.

- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or protein sources.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Solomon as a main dish with a side of avocado slices or a fresh green salad. It also pairs well with grilled chicken or fish.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious Solomon is to mix the ingredients well and let the flavors meld together in the refrigerator before serving. This allows the flavors to develop and intensify.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize this recipe by using your favorite vegetables or herbs. You can also substitute the black beans with kidney beans or chickpeas for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the ingredients for Solomon ahead of time and assemble the dish just before serving. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Solomon in a large bowl and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves or a squeeze of lime juice. You can also serve it in individual bowls for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Solomon pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, seafood, or roasted vegetables. It also goes well with a side of plantains or cornbread.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Solomon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or heat on the stovetop until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Solomon contains approximately 300 calories. This makes it a satisfying and nutritious meal option.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Solomon contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and are essential for overall health.

Fats

Each serving of Solomon contains approximately 7 grams of fat. The fats in this dish come primarily from the canola oil used in the dressing.

Proteins

Each serving of Solomon contains approximately 10 grams of protein. The black beans and rice in this dish are both excellent sources of plant-based protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Solomon is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and iron. These nutrients are essential for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens, but be sure to check the labels on any canned ingredients for potential allergens.

Summary

Solomon is a nutritious and delicious dish that is packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Summary

Solomon is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a quick and easy meal. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, this dish is a great option for a healthy and satisfying meal. Customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

It feels like just yesterday when I stumbled upon this recipe for Solomon. It was a cold winter day, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I turned the yellowed pages, a handwritten note fell out and landed on the kitchen counter. Curious, I picked it up and read the elegant script that detailed the ingredients and instructions for making Solomon, a traditional dish from the Middle East.

I had never heard of Solomon before, but the ingredients listed - lamb, onions, tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices - intrigued me. I decided to give it a try, following the instructions carefully and adding my own personal touch here and there. The result was a rich and flavorful stew that warmed me from the inside out.

As I savored the first spoonful of Solomon, memories flooded back to me of the countless recipes I had learned over the years. Some had come from cookbooks, others from friends and family members, and still others from my own experimentation in the kitchen. Each recipe held a special place in my heart, a connection to the past and a way to pass on a piece of myself to future generations.

But Solomon was different. It had a certain mystique to it, a history and tradition that transcended time and place. I knew that I had stumbled upon something special, a recipe that would become a staple in my own culinary repertoire.

Over the years, I continued to make Solomon, refining the recipe and adding new twists and variations. I shared it with friends and family, who all raved about its unique flavors and comforting warmth. It became a signature dish of mine, one that I was proud to serve at gatherings and special occasions.

As I grew older, my love for cooking only deepened. I found joy and solace in the act of creating something delicious from simple ingredients, in the art of blending flavors and textures to create a harmonious whole. Cooking became more than just a hobby - it became a passion, a way to express myself and to connect with others.

And through it all, Solomon remained a constant in my life. It was a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories and forge bonds that would last a lifetime. It was a testament to the beauty of tradition and the importance of passing down recipes from one generation to the next.

As I sit here now, surrounded by the familiar scents and sounds of the kitchen, I am filled with gratitude for all that cooking has brought into my life. And as I take a bite of the savory and aromatic Solomon that simmers on the stove, I am reminded once again of the magic of food and the joy of sharing it with others. For in every dish that we create, we leave a piece of ourselves behind, a legacy of love and nourishment that will endure long after we are gone.