Moros y Cristianos (Cuba)

Moros y Cristianos, meaning 'Moors and Christians,' is a traditional Cuban staple dish made with black beans and white rice cooked together. It typically includes aromatics like garlic, onion, and bell pepper, and is often seasoned with cumin and oregano. This hearty combination is a cornerstone of Cuban cuisine, frequently served alongside roasted meats or fried plantains.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is primarily a high-carbohydrate meal from the rice and beans, but it also provides a good source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber. A typical serving contains roughly 300-400 calories, with the black beans contributing essential minerals like iron and magnesium.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	250 kcal
Protein	6 g
Carbs	45 g
Fat	5 g
Fiber	4 g
Sugar	2 g
Sodium	350 mg
Potassium	300 mg
Iron	2.5 mg
Magnesium	40 mg
Phosphorus	120 mg
Folate	80 mcg
Thiamin (B1)	0.3 mg
Niacin (B3)	2 mg
Zinc	1.5 mg

Per 1 cup (200 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

The dish's name is a cultural metaphor, with the black beans representing the 'Moors' and the white rice representing the 'Christians,' reflecting Spain's historical narrative. Nutritionally, the rice and beans form a complete protein, making it a particularly valuable and satisfying meal in many traditional diets.