Rice and Beans

Dominican Rice & Beans (Moro de Habichuelas)

Written by: Jamilah Sylvain

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Published on

Rice and beans are beloved throughout Latin America and the Caribbean, but the Dominican version has its own unique flair. What sets it apart is the combination of rich seasonings like garlic, oregano, and fresh cilantro, paired with perfectly cooked beans in a savory tomato-based broth.



What is Moro de Habichuelas?

Moro de Habichuelas is a classic Dominican dish made by cooking rice with beans in a seasoned broth. The beans—typically red, pink, or black—infuse the rice with a rich, earthy flavor, while spices like oregano, garlic, and cilantro bring warmth and depth to the dish. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a centerpiece that reflects the heart and soul of Dominican cuisine.


The beauty of Moro is its versatility. While red beans are the most common, you can substitute them with black beans, pigeon peas, or even lentils. It’s a dish that adapts to your pantry and personal preferences.



Rice & Beans

What You’ll Need to Make Moro de Habichuelas

Here’s a quick overview of the key ingredients you’ll need:

  • Rice: Long-grain white rice is the standard choice for Moro. It cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors beautifully.
  • Beans: Red or pink beans are the most traditional, but canned beans can work if you’re short on time.
  • Aromatics and Spices: Garlic, onion, bell peppers, cilantro, oregano, and a hint of thyme create the dish’s signature flavor.
  • Tomato Base: Tomato paste or sauce adds a slight sweetness and enhances the color of the Moro.
  • Oil: A little vegetable or olive oil helps sauté the aromatics and keeps the rice from sticking.

Tips for Perfect Moro

  • Rinse Your Rice: Washing the rice removes excess starch, preventing it from becoming mushy.
  • Use Bean Liquid: If you’re cooking beans from scratch, save the cooking liquid. It adds extra flavor and richness to the Moro.
  • Don’t Over-Stir: Once the rice is simmering, avoid stirring it. This can make the rice sticky or mushy.


Spices Featured In This Blog


 

 




Spanish Rice & Beans

Dominican Rice & Beans (Moro de Habichuelas)

Prep time

15

Cook time

45-55 mins

Servings

4-6

Category

Dinner

Origin

Caribbean

 

Ingredients

  • 2 cups long-grain white rice
  • 1 ½ cups cooked red beans (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • ½ green bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 sprig of cilantro (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 2 teaspoons Sazon
  • 2 teaspoons Adobo
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 chicken or vegetable bouillon cube (optional)
  • 1/4 cup Manzanilla olives
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 ½ cups water (or reserved bean cooking liquid)

 

Directions

  1. Prepare the Aromatics: Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Season the Base: Stir in the oregano, Sazon, tomato paste, and cilantro. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  3. Add the Beans: Add the cooked beans to the pot, along with the bouillon cube, olives, Adobo, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Incorporate the Rice: Add the rice to the pot and stir well, ensuring it’s coated in the flavorful base.
  5. Add the Liquid: Pour in the water or bean cooking liquid. Stir, then bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
  6. Cook the Moro: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid to ensure the rice cooks evenly.
  7. Fluff and Serve: When the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed, fluff it with a fork. Serve warm alongside your favorite protein, like roasted chicken, stewed beef, or fried fish.

Serving Ideas

Moro is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Some classic Dominican pairings include:

  • Pollo Guisado: A flavorful Dominican-style stewed chicken.
  • Fried Plantains: Sweet or savory, these are a perfect complement to the dish.
  • Avocado Salad: A simple salad of avocado slices, red onion, and a drizzle of lime juice adds freshness to the meal.


Making Moro de Habichuelas at home is like taking a trip to the Dominican Republic without leaving your kitchen. It’s a dish that’s as comforting as it is flavorful, and it’s sure to become a favorite at your table.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this one-pot wonder is a crowd-pleaser every time. Try it out, and let the flavors of the Caribbean transport you!



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