How to Make a Mexican Spiced Pinto Bean and Rice Bowl
If you're looking for a delicious and nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare, a Mexican spiced pinto bean and rice bowl is the perfect option. This dish is not only bursting with flavors but also packed with protein and fiber. Here’s how to make a mouth-watering Mexican spiced pinto bean and rice bowl that will impress your taste buds.
Ingredients
To create a flavorful Mexican spiced pinto bean and rice bowl, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup of pinto beans (cooked or canned, drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup of brown or white rice
- 2 cups of vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of vegetable or chicken broth to a boil. Add 1 cup of rice, reduce heat to low, and cover. Cook for about 15-20 minutes for white rice, or 40-45 minutes for brown rice, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Once done, remove from heat and let it sit covered for about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
While the rice is cooking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Beans and Spices
Next, add the cooked pinto beans to the skillet along with the ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the beans to heat through and soak up the spices.
Step 4: Toss in Tomatoes
Once the beans are well combined with the spices, add the diced tomatoes to the skillet. Allow everything to cook together for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes are heated through.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowl
To assemble your Mexican spiced pinto bean and rice bowl, start by spooning a generous portion of rice into a bowl. Top it generously with the spiced pinto bean mixture. Add slices of avocado on top and sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro for added flavor.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Mexican spiced pinto bean and rice bowl with lime wedges on the side. Squeezing fresh lime juice over the top enhances the flavors even more. Enjoy your healthy meal that’s rich in protein, fiber, and full of savory spices!
Tips for Customization
This bowl is highly customizable! Feel free to add toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, or fresh salsa. You can also mix in some sautéed bell peppers or corn for extra texture and flavor.
Making a Mexican spiced pinto bean and rice bowl is not only simple and quick but also a great way to enjoy a wholesome meal any time of the day!