Hello and welcome to Rice Cookers 101! Today, I have an exciting and flavorful recipe to share with you – Thai Pinto Bean Rice. This dish is a delicious fusion of Thai and Mexican cuisines, combining fragrant jasmine rice with protein-packed pinto beans, spicy jalapenos, and a kick of Thai red curry paste. As an easy and nutritious one-pot meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds and keep you feeling full and energized. So, grab your rice cooker and let’s get cooking! We’ve made this thai 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.

thai pinto bean rice ingredients

Ingredients

  • 1 cup of uncooked long-grain rice
  • 1 can of pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 red bell pepper
  • 1/2 red onion
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 1 tablespoon red curry paste
  • 1/2 cup coconut milk
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook 1 cup of uncooked long-grain rice according to package instructions.
  2. While the rice is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add 1 red bell pepper, 1/2 red onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tablespoon minced ginger to the skillet and sauté until tender, which should take around 5 minutes.
  4. Add 1 tablespoon red curry paste to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  5. Add 1 drained and rinsed can of pinto beans to the skillet and stir until combined with the vegetables and curry paste.
  6. Add the cooked rice to the skillet with the vegetables and beans.
  7. Add 1/2 cup of coconut milk to the skillet and stir to combine all ingredients.
  8. Simmer the rice and bean mixture on medium-low heat for 5-10 minutes to blend the flavors.
  9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  10. Garnish with chopped cilantro and lime wedges.
  11. Enjoy!

thai pinto bean rice

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

Thai pinto bean rice can typically be stored in the fridge for up to 4-5 days after cooking, provided it has been properly stored in an airtight container. It is important to let the rice cool to room temperature before refrigerating it, as this will prevent bacterial growth. To reheat the rice, it is best to add a few drops of water and microwave it in short intervals, fluffing it with a fork in between to ensure even heating. However, if you notice any strange odors or discoloration in the rice, it is best to discard it immediately to avoid the risk of food poisoning.

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Low calorie thai pinto bean rice recipe substitutions

To make this Thai Pinto Bean Rice recipe lower in calories, there are a few substitutions that can be made. Firstly, using brown rice instead of white rice can reduce the calorie count of the dish. Also, swapping out the full-fat coconut milk for unsweetened almond milk can reduce the number of calories in the recipe. Using a cooking spray instead of olive oil, and reducing the amount of curry paste used can also help to reduce the calorie count. Finally, replacing the red bell pepper and onion with lower-calorie vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini can help to keep the calorie count down while still providing a flavorful dish. By making these simple substitutions, this recipe can be made more calorie-conscious without compromising on flavor.

What to serve with a thai pinto bean rice?

Thai pinto bean rice is a delicious and filling dish that can be served as a main or side dish. To complement the spicy and earthy flavors of the rice, you can pair it with a simple salad of mixed greens and cucumbers dressed in a tangy lime vinaigrette. Alternatively, you could also serve it with steamed vegetables such as broccoli or carrots for a healthier and more balanced meal. If you’re looking for a protein-rich option, grilled or marinated tofu can also be a great addition to the dish.

Whats the best sauce for a thai pinto bean rice?

One of the best sauce options for Thai pinto bean rice is a simple peanut sauce. To make this, mix together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and chili flakes. Adjust the seasoning and consistency to your liking. This savory and slightly sweet sauce perfectly complements the nutty and slightly earthy flavor of the pinto beans, and adds a burst of flavor to the rice. You can also add some chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro as garnish for added texture and taste.

Thai pinto bean rice health benefits

Thai pinto bean rice has several health benefits. Pinto beans are packed with nutrients such as protein, fiber, iron, and complex carbohydrates, making them a nutritious addition to any meal. Additionally, rice provides essential B vitamins and minerals such as selenium and magnesium. The combination of pinto beans and rice in this recipe creates a complete protein, essential for building and repairing cells in the body. This dish is also low in fat and calories, making it a healthy option for individuals looking to maintain a healthy weight. However, it is important to note that the recipe’s health benefits may be compromised depending on the amount of oil or added salt used during cooking. If someone is looking for a healthier recipe, I recommend a quinoa and vegetable stir-fry, packed with high fiber and nutrient-rich veggies such as broccoli, bell peppers, and spinach.

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