Nothing Beats Rice & Beans
Because nothing really beats rice and beans.
This one started with tomatoes and culantro from my mom’s garden, or as we’ve always called it, chadon beni. I remember being a kid at the farmer’s market asking for chadon beni and wondering why no one knew what I meant. It turns out that it just had other names, like many things that travel across cultures.
Growing up, chadon beni showed up in everything from soups to Sunday lunches. It’s one of those flavors that instantly evokes a sense of home.
So here’s my take: refried beans, tomatoes, cucumbers, salsa, culantro, cilantro, lime, and red cabbage. Real food, made from what’s on hand, no rules, no tacos, just good flavor.
How to Adapt This Meal
For extra protein:
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, salmon, tofu, or tempeh.
Mix in black beans or lentils for a vegetarian option.
For more veggies:
Add grilled zucchini, roasted corn, or avocado slices.
Replace rice with shredded lettuce or quinoa for extra texture.
To adjust for allergies or preferences:
Dairy-free: use avocado or cashew cream instead of cheese or sour cream.
Low-carb: skip the rice and double the beans and vegetables.
Kid-friendly:
Serve components separately for easy mixing and matching.
Balance tip:
This meal already offers fiber, healthy fats, and plant protein; round it out with a fruit on the side or a small handful of nuts for added staying power.