Mexican Quinoa (One Pot)

Introduction

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a one-pot meal, especially when it’s as vibrant and flavorful as this Mexican Quinoa. My family absolutely loves this dish; it has become a staple in our kitchen. It’s not only easy to prepare, but it’s also packed with nutrients and bursting with southwestern zest. Whether served as a side dish or a light main course, this quinoa is a hit with both kids and adults alike. The combination of spices, fresh vegetables, and protein-rich ingredients makes it a perfect choice for a healthy meal. Let me guide you through this delightful recipe that has quickly won a place in our hearts.

Ingredients

• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, chopped
• ¾ cup dry quinoa (rinsed and drained)
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
• ½ tsp table salt
• ½ tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
• 1 cup sweet corn kernels
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans (rinsed and drained)
• 1 medium tomato, chopped
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges for sprinkling

Instructions

Step 1: Prep Quinoa

Rinse and drain quinoa thoroughly in a fine mesh strainer to remove excess water and any bitter coating (saponin) that quinoa may have.

Step 2: Cook Aromatics

In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until tender and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then add the chopped garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer Quinoa

Add the rinsed quinoa and chicken broth to the saucepan. Stir in the ground cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 22 minutes without lifting the lid to allow the quinoa to absorb all the flavors.

Step 4: Add Veggies

After 22 minutes, add the sweet corn kernels and black beans to the quinoa mixture. Stir gently, cover, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Finally, mix in the chopped cilantro and tomatoes, allowing them to heat through.

Step 5: Serve

Remove from heat and let the dish sit covered for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with freshly squeezed lime juice to brighten the flavors.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 230
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Dietary Fiber: 7g
• Sugars: 3g
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 350mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 8 minutes
• Cook Time: 22 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

You can serve this Mexican Quinoa in various ways:

• As a Side Dish: Pair it with grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a nutritious meal.
• As a Main Course: Top it with avocado slices or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
• In a Bowl: Add shredded cheese and serve it in a bowl for a heartier meal.
• In Tacos: Use it as a filling in tacos for a meat-free option.
• With Lime: Don’t forget to garnish with lime wedges for that extra zesty flavor!

Additional Tips

1. Rinse the Quinoa: Always rinse quinoa before cooking to remove any bitterness.
2. Customize the Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your preference, adding more cayenne for heat or more cumin for warmth.
3. Add Protein: For extra protein, consider adding diced chicken breast or cooked ground turkey to the mix.
4. Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
5. Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prep! Make a big batch and portion it out for the week.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian/Vegan: Keep the recipe as is for a vegan-friendly dish by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Southwestern Style: Add diced bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
• Cheesy Quinoa: Stir in shredded cheese at the end of cooking for a creamy texture.
• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for those who enjoy heat.
• Herb Variations: Substitute cilantro with parsley or green onions for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

This Mexican Quinoa is incredibly versatile:

• With Salsa: Serve with your favorite salsa or pico de gallo for a fresh taste.
• As a Salad: Chill and serve as a salad with lime vinaigrette for a refreshing dish.
• With Avocado: Top with sliced avocado for a creamy contrast.
• On a Bed of Greens: Serve it over a bed of fresh greens for a nutritious salad.
• As a Stuffing: Use it to stuff bell peppers or zucchinis before baking.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Allow the quinoa to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use water instead of chicken broth?
   Yes, you can use water, but chicken broth adds more flavor.
2. Is this dish gluten-free?
   Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Absolutely! It can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for later.
4. What can I substitute for black beans?
   You can substitute black beans with pinto beans or kidney beans.
5. How can I make this dish spicier?
   Add more cayenne pepper or include chopped jalapeños.
6. Can I use frozen corn?
   Yes, frozen corn works perfectly in this recipe. Just add it directly to the pot without thawing.
7. Is it necessary to rinse quinoa?
   Yes, rinsing removes the bitter coating on quinoa called saponin.
8. What if I don’t have fresh cilantro?
   You can use dried cilantro or parsley instead.
9. How long does cooked quinoa last in the fridge?
   Cooked quinoa can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
10. Can I add meat to this dish?
    Yes, you can add cooked ground beef, chicken, or turkey for added protein.

Conclusion

This vibrant Mexican Quinoa is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and nutrition. Easy to prepare in just one pot, it makes for a perfect meal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With its wholesome ingredients and customizable nature, you can make it your own. Whether you’re looking for a hearty side or a satisfying main dish, this recipe is bound to impress your family and friends. Give it a try, and savor the deliciousness of this southwestern delight! 🌮🍲

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