One Pot Spanish Rice And Beans Recipe

I enjoy adding unique twists to my Meatless Family Meals. This Spanish Rice and Beans dish features pantry favorites such as red kidney beans, garlic, and onion, with a touch of smoked paprika and cumin. Its vibrant blend of flavors and textures makes it a nutritious, one pot meal that’s perfect for dinner.

I recently tried making this One Pot Spanish Rice And Beans recipe and honestly, it totally surprised me. Growing up I always loved simple vegetarian meals that were both healthy and filling and this dish absolutely fits the bill.

I heated 1 tbsp olive oil in my pot and tossed in a chopped medium onion along with 3 garlic cloves, minced just right. Then i added a diced bell pepper to bring a bit of crunch and color.

Mixing in 1 cup of long-grain white rice, a can of diced tomatoes, and 2 cups of vegetable broth felt like a proper quick fix meal while also being a good antiinflammatory vegetarian meal option. The red kidney beans soaked up the smoky taste from 1 tsp smoked paprika and 1/2 tsp ground cumin and the salt and pepper tie it all together.

I love how this meatless family meal fits in with my idea of lazy vegetarian dinners without compromising flavor, it’s simply amazing.

Why I Like this Recipe

I like this recipe because its super easy to make using stuff i probably already have in my pantry so i dont have to run to the store every time. I also love that its a one pot meal which means less mess in the kitchen and more time to relax after dinner. Another thing is the flavor; the mix of spices with tomatoes and beans creates a really bold and delicious taste that always hits the spot. Lastly, i appreciate that its a nutritious meal with plenty of protein from the beans making it a healthy meal option that i can enjoy any night.

Ingredients

• Olive Oil: Provides healthy fats and flavor, making the stew rich and smooth.
• Onion: Adds natural sweetness and essential fiber for overall health benefits.
• Garlic: Offers robust flavor punch and nutritious antioxidants for added depth.
• Rice: Supplies carbohydrates for energy while absorbing spices and tomato juices.
• Kidney Beans: Supply protein and fiber, making the dish hearty and satisfying.
• Diced Tomatoes: Bring acidity and moisture, balancing the rich flavors perfectly.
• Smoked Paprika: Imparts smoky, vibrant flavor with a hint of spice for depth.
• Bell Pepper: Adds crunchy texture and a sweet, fresh note to every bite.
• Vegetable Broth: Enhances every spoonful with savory notes, blending all flavors well.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bell pepper, seeded and diced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
• 1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped cilantro and lime wedges for serving

How to Make this

1. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and add the chopped onion to cook until its soft.

2. Toss in the minced garlic and diced bell pepper and let it cook for about 2 minutes until they start to soften.

3. Stir in 1 cup of long-grain white rice along with 1 tsp of smoked paprika and 1/2 tsp of ground cumin, mixing well so the rice gets coated with the spices.

4. Pour in the 1 (1
4.5 oz) can of diced tomatoes with its juices after stirring in the spices.

5. Now add 2 cups of vegetable broth or water making sure it covers all the rice and other ingredients.

6. Rinse and drain the 1 (15 oz) can of red kidney beans then gently stir them into the pot.

7. Bring the whole mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot and let it simmer until the rice is fully cooked.

8. Keep an eye on it and stir every now and then to make sure nothing sticks at the bottom and add a splash more broth if it seems too thick.

9. When the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, taste it and add salt and pepper to your liking.

10. Serve hot topped with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice if you like that extra zing. Enjoy!

Equipment Needed

1. Large pot with lid
2. Stove
3. Wooden spoon or spatula
4. Knife
5. Cutting board
6. Measuring cups and spoons
7. Can opener
8. Colander
9. Optional lime squeezer

FAQ

One Pot Spanish Rice And Beans Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• If you dont have olive oil on hand, you can swap it with a similar oil like coconut or even canola oil.
• No onion? You could use finely chopped shallots instead, they give a slightly sweeter flavor.
• Out of vegetable broth? Chicken broth works too or just use water with a bouillon cube for extra taste.
• If you dont have red kidney beans, black beans or even pinto beans can be a good substitute.
• Dont have smoked paprika? Try using regular paprika with a little extra cumin to get a bit of that smoky flavor.

Pro Tips

1. Try toasting the rice in the pan with the onions and spices before adding the liquid. It gives it a nuttier flavor that makes the dish taste more complex.
2. Watch the garlic and bell pepper closely so they don’t burn. Burned garlic can turn bitter and ruin the whole pot.
3. Stir the pot every few minutes to keep the rice from sticking to the bottom, and if it seems too dry, just add a little extra broth or water.
4. For an extra layer of flavor, squeeze a bit of lime and sprinkle some chopped cilantro right before serving.