# The Ingredients You'll Need:
→ Base
01 - 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
02 - 1/2 medium white or yellow onion, finely diced
→ Rice & Broth
03 - 2 cups long grain brown rice
04 - 3 cups vegetable broth
→ Flavoring
05 - 1 1/2 cups tomato-based salsa
06 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
07 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
08 - Salt, to taste
→ Beans
09 - 1 (15-ounce) can black beans or kidney beans, drained and rinsed
→ Garnish (optional)
10 - Fresh chopped cilantro
# Step-by-Step Instructions:
01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onion for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
02 - Add brown rice, vegetable broth, salsa, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
03 - Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for approximately 40 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is fully absorbed.
04 - Gently fold in drained and rinsed beans once rice is cooked. Taste and adjust salt seasoning as necessary.
05 - Remove from heat. Keep covered and let stand for at least 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
06 - Fluff rice with a fork. Sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro if desired and serve warm.