Instant Pot Rice and Beans: A Quick and Delicious Meal

Hey there, fellow food enthusiasts and Instant Pot lovers! I’m Ethan Harris, your culinary captain, and today we’re diving into a classic that’s as easy as it is tasty – Instant Pot Rice and Beans. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, this dish is a winner on all fronts, and it’s here to save the day when you’re hungry and don’t want to fuss around.

What is Rice and Beans

Rice and beans, often referred to as “rice and beans” or “rice and peas,” is a classic and versatile dish made by combining rice and various types of beans. It is a staple in many cuisines around the world and has numerous regional variations. The dish typically consists of cooked rice and beans, seasoned with various herbs, spices, and other ingredients. The choice of beans can vary and may include black beans, red beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans, depending on regional preferences. Rice and beans is known for its affordability, simplicity, and balanced nutritional profile, as it provides a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, and fiber. It is a popular choice for a complete and filling meal, often served with additional accompaniments like vegetables, meat, or a variety of sauces and seasonings.

How To Make The Instant Pot Rice and Beans

Instant Pot Rice and Beans Recipe

Recipe by Ethan HarrisCourse: MainCuisine: TraditionalDifficulty: Easy

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

25

minutes

Calories

385

kcal

Enjoy a quick and nutritious meal with our Instant Pot Rice and Beans recipe. Perfectly cooked in one pot, it’s a convenient and flavorful choice for your busy days.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of dried beans (black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans)

• 1 cup of long-grain white rice

• 4 cups of water or vegetable broth

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves of garlic, minced

• 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)

• 1 teaspoon of cumin

• 1 teaspoon of paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Olive oil for sautéing

Directions

• Rinse and Soak (Optional): Start by rinsing the dried beans under cold water. Soaking the beans overnight can help reduce the cooking time, but it’s optional.
• Sauté Aromatics: Set your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and add a bit of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onions and garlic until they become translucent. If you like, add diced bell pepper for extra flavor.
• Add Spices: Add the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the sautéed aromatics. Stir for about a minute to release their flavors.
• Add Rice and Beans: Incorporate the rinsed and drained beans and the cup of rice into the Instant Pot. Stir to combine them with the aromatics and spices.
• Add Liquid: Pour in the 4 cups of water or vegetable broth, ensuring that the rice and beans are fully submerged.
• Pressure Cook: Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to “Sealing,” and choose the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting. Cook for around 22-25 minutes for white rice or 30-35 minutes for brown rice. If you’re using unsoaked beans, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Natural Release: After the cooking cycle is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for about 10-15 minutes.
• Serve: Carefully open the lid, fluff the rice and beans with a fork, and serve hot. You can garnish your dish with fresh herbs, a squeeze of lime, or your favorite toppings.

Why We Love This Dish

One-Pot Dish: The Instant Pot allows you to cook the instant pot rice and beans together in one pot. This not only saves time but also reduces the number of dishes to clean.

Nutrition: Rice and beans are a classic combination that provides a good balance of carbohydrates and protein. They are a great source of essential nutrients and dietary fiber, making them a healthy and satisfying meal.

Versatility: You can customize your Instant Pot Rice and Beans by adding various spices, vegetables, or even proteins like chicken or sausage. This versatility allows you to create a variety of flavors to suit your preferences.

Budget-Friendly: Rice and beans are inexpensive ingredients that can be a budget-friendly way to prepare a filling meal for your family.

Meal Prep: Instant Pot Rice and Beans can be prepared in large batches and used for meal prepping. You can portion them out for future meals, saving you time during busy weekdays.

Nutritional Benefits of Instant Pot Rice and Beans

Protein: Combining rice and beans forms a complete protein source, making it suitable for vegetarians and vegans. This combination provides all essential amino acids for proper nutrition.

Fiber: Both rice and beans are excellent sources of dietary fiber. Fiber aids in digestion, helps maintain a feeling of fullness, and supports heart health.

Complex Carbohydrates: These foods are rich in complex carbohydrates, which provide sustained energy without causing rapid spikes in blood sugar levels.

Vitamins and Minerals: Rice contains essential B vitamins like thiamine, niacin, and riboflavin, while beans are rich in minerals such as iron, potassium, and magnesium. These nutrients play vital roles in overall health and wellness.

Low in Fat: Rice and beans are naturally low in fat, making them a heart-healthy choice.

Antioxidants: Beans, particularly dark-colored varieties, are rich in antioxidants that help combat free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Weight Management: The fiber in rice and beans promotes satiety, making you feel full for longer, which can aid in weight management.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Rice and Beans is a culinary delight that offers a perfect blend of convenience, flavor, and nutrition. Whether you choose to serve it for lunch or dinner, this dish provides a hearty and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare in your Instant Pot. With the rich combination of rice and beans, enhanced by the right seasonings, you have a budget-friendly, one-pot wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving a wholesome and delicious option. So, embrace the magic of one-pot cooking and savor this nutritious, flavorful classic with your loved ones. Enjoy every bite of Instant Pot Rice and Beans and explore the endless possibilities it offers for your culinary adventures.

Discover a world of flavors with my other dinner recipes, like the delightful Instant Pot Shrimp Fried Rice. Dive into a fusion of tastes that will transport you to culinary bliss. From the savory embrace of Beef and Broccoli to the zesty kick of Orange Chicken, my repertoire ensures your dinner table is a haven of scrumptious delights. Join me on this gastronomic journey!