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Easy One-Pot Mexican Rice and Beans Recipe Perfect for Budget Meals

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A quick, budget-friendly, and flavorful one-pot Mexican rice and beans dish that is simple to make and perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (200g)
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (or 1.5 cups cooked)
  • 2 cups vegetable broth (480ml)
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz / 400g)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear (about 30 seconds). Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat in a large heavy-bottomed pot. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 4 minutes until softened and translucent.
  3. Add the minced garlic and stir for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Stir constantly for 1 minute to toast the spices and release their oils.
  5. Add the rinsed rice and stir to coat each grain with the spice mixture.
  6. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, black beans, and vegetable broth. Stir gently to combine.
  7. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover with a lid.
  8. Simmer gently for 18-20 minutes without lifting the lid.
  9. Remove the pot from heat but keep it covered for another 5 minutes to let the rice finish steaming.
  10. Fluff the rice with a fork and taste. If still firm, cover and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  11. Add salt to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon) and stir gently.
  12. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top for garnish before serving.

Notes

Rinsing the rice prevents gummy texture. Toasting spices in oil unlocks flavor. Keep the lid on during simmering to ensure even cooking. Adjust salt based on broth saltiness. For spicier versions, add jalapeños or cayenne pepper. Brown rice can be used with more liquid and longer cooking time.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot, Mexican rice and beans, budget meals, quick dinner, easy recipe, vegan, gluten-free

Find it online: https://lucydishes.com/easy-one-pot-mexican-rice-and-beans-recipe-perfect-for-budget-meals/