Spicy Pinto Bean Rice Recipe

Hello there and welcome to Rice Cookers 101! Today, I’m sharing with you a recipe that’s perfect for those who love a bit of spicy kick in their rice. It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that features pinto beans and rice, which are cooked to perfection in a rice cooker. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also nutritious and filling. So, let’s get started and learn how to make this spicy pinto bean rice dish that you can enjoy for lunch or dinner. We’ve made this spicy 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 white rice
• 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 small green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth

“`

Instructions

1. Sauté 1 small diced onion, 1 small diced green bell pepper, and 2 minced garlic cloves in 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large saucepan until softened.
2. Mix in 1 cup of white rice, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
3. Add 1 can of drained and rinsed pinto beans and 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth to the pan and stir well.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid. Simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, still covered, for 5 minutes.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot.

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

Spicy pinto bean rice can typically be stored in the fridge after cooking for up to four days. However, it’s important to make sure that the rice is properly stored in an airtight container and cooled quickly before being placed in the fridge to avoid bacterial growth. It’s also a good idea to reheat the rice thoroughly before consuming to ensure that it’s safe to eat. If you’re not planning on consuming the rice within four days, you may want to consider freezing it for longer storage.

Low calorie spicy pinto bean rice recipe substitutions

To make this spicy pinto bean rice recipe lower in calories, there are several substitutions that could be made. Firstly, using brown rice instead of white rice can help reduce the calorie content, as brown rice contains more fiber and protein. Secondly, using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth can lower the calorie count and make this recipe suitable for vegetarians. Also, using a non-stick pan and cooking spray instead of the olive oil can further reduce the calorie count. Lastly, reducing the amount of beans or removing them entirely and adding more vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms can help cut the calories while maintaining the volume of the dish. Together, these substitutions can make this recipe a healthier option for those looking to reduce their calorie intake.

What to serve with a spicy pinto bean rice?

Spicy pinto bean rice is already a filling and flavorful dish, but it can be even better when paired with some complementary sides. A refreshing side salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado would be a great contrast to the heat of the dish. A slice of hot, crusty bread or some warm tortillas would be perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce from the beans and rice. Grilled or roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions would also make a delicious and healthy addition to the meal. And of course, a cool beverage like a fruity iced tea or cold beer would be the perfect way to complete the spicy pinto bean rice experience.

Whats the best sauce for a spicy pinto bean rice?

A great sauce for spicy pinto bean rice would be a simple yet flavorful salsa verde. This sauce is made from tomatillos, cilantro, jalapenos, onions, garlic, lime juice, and salt. It’s tangy, slightly spicy, and perfect for adding a burst of flavor to the dish without overpowering it. Simply blend all the ingredients together in a food processor or blender until smooth, and then drizzle it over the rice and pinto beans. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or guacamole if you’d like some creaminess to balance out the heat.

Spicy pinto bean rice health benefits

Spicy pinto bean rice provides numerous health benefits. Pinto beans are low in fat and high in protein and fiber, making them a great source of plant-based protein and aiding in digestion. The addition of spices like cumin, cayenne pepper, and paprika provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Brown rice is a whole grain that is full of vitamins and minerals, such as selenium, magnesium, and B vitamins. Spicy pinto bean rice is a healthy, filling dish that is perfect for those who are looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet. If you’re looking for an even healthier option, you can replace the white rice with quinoa to increase the protein content and reduce the glycemic index.