Namaste! Welcome to Rice Cookers 101, where we believe that the humble rice cooker is an essential tool for any kitchen. Today we’re bringing you a delicious recipe for Indian Pinto Bean Rice. This dish is packed with flavor and nutrition, making it the perfect weeknight dinner or side dish. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll be amazed at how this dish comes together. So let’s get started! We’ve made this indian 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 basmati rice
- 1 can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 cups water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse 1 cup of basmati rice in a fine mesh strainer and drain well.
- Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add 1 tsp of cumin, 1 tsp of coriander, 1/2 tsp of turmeric, 1/4 tsp of cayenne pepper, and 1/2 tsp of salt. Stir to combine.
- Add the rinsed rice and stir to coat with the spices and vegetables.
- Add 1 drained and rinsed can of pinto beans and 2 cups of water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.
- Simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water has been absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and sprinkle with 2 tbsp of chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.
How long does indian pinto bean rice last in the fridge?
Indian pinto bean rice can be stored in the fridge for up to 4-5 days after cooking. To store the rice, allow it to cool down to room temperature and then transfer it to an airtight container. The container should be placed in the refrigerator as soon as possible – ideally within 2 hours of cooking – to prevent bacterial growth. When reheating the rice, make sure it is heated thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to prevent any possible foodborne illnesses.
Low calorie indian pinto bean rice recipe substitutions
To make this Indian Pinto Bean Rice recipe lower in calorie, there are a few substitutions you can make. Firstly, you can substitute the olive oil with a calorie-free cooking spray or reduce the amount of oil used to 1 tablespoon. You can also replace the basmati rice with cauliflower rice, which is significantly lower in calories. Additionally, you can reduce the amount of salt used or omit it entirely, as the other spices used in the recipe will still provide plenty of flavor. Finally, you can skip the optional cilantro or use it sparingly as a garnish to save on calories. These substitutions will help reduce the calorie content of the recipe while still maintaining its delicious flavor.
What to serve with a indian pinto bean rice?
Indian Pinto Bean Rice is a hearty and flavorful vegetarian dish that can be served on its own or as a side dish. To make a complete meal, you can serve it with a side of garlic naan or a spinach salad with cucumbers, onions, tomatoes, and a yogurt dressing. You can also pair it with a seafood dish such as grilled shrimp or baked salmon for a protein-packed dinner. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for a subtle tang and added freshness.
Whats the best sauce for a indian pinto bean rice?
The best sauce for Indian pinto bean rice is a flavorful and aromatic curry sauce. A classic Indian curry sauce can be made by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger in oil before adding a blend of ground spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. Once the spices are fragrant, add canned or fresh tomatoes and allow the mixture to cook down into a thick sauce. Adding a bit of coconut milk or cream can add a touch of creaminess and mellow the spices, while fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors. Finally, pour this delicious curry sauce over the rice and pinto beans, and enjoy the savory and satisfying flavors of this traditional Indian dish.
Indian pinto bean rice health benefits
Indian pinto bean rice has several health benefits. Pinto beans are a rich source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals that promote healthy digestion and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes. The combination of rice and beans provides a complete source of protein for vegetarians. Additionally, Indian spices like turmeric, coriander, and cumin have anti-inflammatory properties that support a healthy immune system. Including Indian pinto bean rice in your diet can help you maintain a healthy weight, lower cholesterol, and improve blood sugar control. However, if you are looking for an alternative recipe, you can try a quinoa and black bean salad which is also high in protein, fiber, and loaded with essential vitamins and minerals.