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The Best Black Bean and Rice Burrito Recipe (Customizable & Flavorful)

Close-up of a black bean and rice burrito cut in half, showing seasoned rice and dark red beans mixed with cilantro.

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Create satisfying, flavorful black bean and rice burritos using simple ingredients. This recipe provides a guide for perfectly seasoned filling and tight rolling technique for a great homemade meal.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 cup vegetable broth or water
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups cooked cilantro lime rice (see notes for quick version)
  • 4 large (10-inch) flour tortillas
  • Optional additions: shredded cheese, salsa, avocado slices, sour cream

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Rice: Cook your preferred rice. For cilantro lime rice, mix 2 cups cooked rice with the juice of 1 lime and 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro. Set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  3. Season the Beans: Add the rinsed black beans, cumin, chili powder, and oregano to the skillet. Stir well to coat the beans with the spices.
  4. Simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth or water. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has mostly evaporated and the beans are heated through and flavorful. Mash about one-third of the beans against the side of the pan with a spoon to create a creamier texture. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Warm Tortillas: Warm the flour tortillas one at a time in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 15-30 seconds per side, or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20 seconds. This makes them pliable for rolling.
  6. Assemble the Burrito: Lay a warm tortilla flat. Place about 1/4 of the black bean mixture and 1/2 cup of the cilantro lime rice slightly below the center of the tortilla. Add any desired optional fillings like cheese or salsa.
  7. Roll Tightly: Fold the left and right sides of the tortilla inward over the filling. Then, fold the bottom edge up tightly over the filling and roll the burrito away from you, keeping the sides tucked in, until it is completely sealed.
  8. Serve: Serve immediately, or wrap individually in foil for make ahead freezer burritos.

Notes

  • For quick cilantro lime rice, use 2 cups of pre-cooked or microwaveable rice. Stir in the lime juice and cilantro after heating.
  • To make this a simple vegan burrito recipe, skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
  • For a spicier filling, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper along with the other seasonings.
  • To wrap a burrito tightly, the key is to keep the filling centered and fold the sides in before rolling from the bottom edge.

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