Garlic Pinto Bean Rice Recipe

Hello and welcome to Rice Cookers 101! Today, I will be sharing with you a delicious and healthy recipe for garlic pinto bean rice. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or as a side dish for a larger gathering. The combination of aromatic garlic, flavorful pinto beans, and fluffy rice will surely have your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s gluten-free and vegan-friendly, so it’s a versatile option for anyone following a special diet. So, let’s get started and learn how to make this tasty garlic pinto bean rice in no time using just your trusty rice cooker. We’ve made this garlic pinto bean rice recipe easy to follow 👨‍🍳. If you’re looking for our favorite rice cookers to make this recipe, check out our list of top rice cookers here.

Ingredients

• 1 cup rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 can pinto beans
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions

1. First, rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer and set it aside to drain.
2. Next, in a pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the rice to the pot with the garlic and oil, stirring the rice to coat it fully with the oil and garlic.
4. Pour the water into the pot with the rice, and then add the salt, black pepper, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Stir everything together to combine it.
5. Bring the pot to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and cook the mixture for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.
6. Meanwhile, rinse the pinto beans in a strainer.
7. After the rice has cooked for 18-20 minutes, drain any excess water that hasn’t been absorbed by the rice.
8. Add the pinto beans to the pot with the cooked rice. Stir them into the rice mixture until they are well combined.
9. Remove the rice and pinto bean mixture from the heat and let it sit undisturbed for 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.

How long does garlic pinto bean rice last in the fridge?

Garlic pinto bean rice can be stored in the fridge for up to four days after cooking. It is important to store the rice in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent any odor from spreading to other foods. When reheating, add a little water or broth to the rice to prevent it from drying out. Additionally, make sure to reheat the rice to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat. If unsure about the freshness or safety of the rice, it is always best to err on the side of caution and discard it.

Low calorie garlic pinto bean rice recipe substitutions

To make this recipe lower in calories, there are a few substitutions that can be made. Firstly, replace the 2 tablespoons of olive oil with a low calorie cooking spray, or use just 1 tablespoon of oil. Secondly, instead of using white rice, opt for brown rice or even cauliflower rice as a low calorie alternative. Thirdly, reduce the amount of canned pinto beans to half a can, or substitute with a small portion of tofu or grilled chicken if desired. Finally, reduce the amount of salt used by half or substitute with low sodium seasoning. By making these substitutions, you can significantly reduce the calorie intake of the recipe without compromising on taste.

What to serve with a garlic pinto bean rice?

There are a few great options to serve with garlic pinto bean rice! One delicious option is to top the rice with sliced avocado and diced tomatoes, then serve it alongside grilled chicken or pork. If you want to keep the meal vegetarian, consider adding some roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes, or serving the rice with a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar. For some added crunch and texture, try topping the rice with some crushed tortilla chips or sliced scallions. Whatever you choose, this flavorful rice dish is sure to be a hit!

Whats the best sauce for a garlic pinto bean rice?

The best sauce for garlic pinto bean rice would be a cilantro lime sauce. This creamy and tangy sauce complements the earthy and savory flavors of the garlic pinto beans and the fluffy texture of the rice. To make the sauce, blend fresh cilantro leaves, lime juice, sour cream or Greek yogurt, garlic, salt, and pepper in a food processor until smooth and well combined. Drizzle the sauce over the warm rice and beans and garnish with additional cilantro and lime wedges. This sauce adds a burst of vibrant flavor to the dish and creates a delicious and satisfying meal.

Garlic pinto bean rice health benefits

Garlic pinto bean rice is a delicious and nutritious dish that offers several health benefits. Garlic is known to have antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help strengthen the immune system. Pinto beans are an excellent source of protein and fiber, which can lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Brown rice, the base of this dish, is a whole grain that provides essential vitamins and minerals. Together, the ingredients in garlic pinto bean rice make for a healthy and satisfying meal. However, if you are looking for an even healthier alternative, you could consider substituting brown rice with quinoa, which is a protein-rich, gluten-free grain that is also high in fiber and essential nutrients.