SPICY MEXICAN BLACK BEAN BOWL
The spicy Mexican black bean bowl is a vibrant, flavour-packed meal that brings together the richness of black beans, the nutty taste of brown rice and the natural sweetness of corn. This bowl is enhanced by creamy avocado slices and topped with fresh, zesty salsa for a refreshing contrast. The dish is packed with plant-based protein, fibre, and essential nutrients, and it is a satisfying option for a healthy lunch or dinner. The combination of ingredients offers a well-rounded balance of textures and flavours, with the beans providing heartiness, the corn adding a slight crunch and the avocado delivering creaminess. The salsa brings everything together with a tangy, mildly spicy kick. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal, a nutritious post-workout dish, or a simple plant-based recipe, this spicy Mexican black bean bowl is a fantastic choice. It’s easy to prepare, customisable and perfect for meal prep.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Lunch, Dinner
SERVING SIZE
1 serving
CUISINE
Mexican
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Simmer, No-Cook, Steam, Sauté
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Cinco de Mayo, Weeknight Dinner, Healthy Eating, Meal Prep, Summer
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Healthy, High Fibre, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low Fat, Quick & Easy
DISH TYPE
Rice Bowl
INGREDIENTS OF SPICY MEXICAN BLACK BEAN BOWL
- 50g brown rice, cooked
- 30g black beans, cooked and drained
- 10g corn kernels, cooked
- ¼ avocado, sliced
- 1 tbsp salsa
- ½ tsp lime juice (optional for extra freshness)
- ¼ tsp chilli flakes (optional, for added spice)
- 1 tbsp chopped coriander (optional, for garnish)
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories 285 kcal
- Protein 10g
- Carbohydrates 42g
- Fibre 9g
- Fat 8g
- Saturated Fat 1.2g
- Sodium 210mg
- Sugar 2g
PREPARATION FOR SPICY MEXICAN BLACK BOWL
- Prepare The Rice: If it has not already been cooked, rinse the brown rice and cook it according to package instructions. Let it cool slightly before assembling the bowl.
- Warm The Beans And Corn: In a pan over medium heat, sauté the black beans and corn for 2-3 minutes with a splash of water or vegetable broth to heat through.
- Assemble The Bowl: Add the cooked brown rice as the base, followed by the warmed black beans and corn.
- Top With Avocado And Salsa: Arrange the sliced avocado on one side of the bowl, then spoon the salsa over the other ingredients.
- Enhance The Flavour: Drizzle with fresh lime juice and sprinkle with chilli flakes if you like extra spice.
- Garnish And Serve: Add chopped coriander on top for a burst of fresh flavour. Serve immediately and enjoy.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
5 minutes
TIPS FOR SPICY MEXICAN BLACK BOWL
- Use Pre-Cooked Rice: Cooking brown rice in advance saves time and makes meal prep easier.
- Season The Beans: Add a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika when warming the black beans for extra depth of flavour.
- Creamy Avocado: Use a ripe avocado for the best texture and taste.
- Customise The Salsa: Try a homemade salsa with fresh tomatoes, onions and jalapeños for a fresher, more flavourful topping.
- Crunchy Texture: Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips over the bowl for added crunch.
VARIATIONS
- High-Protein Option: Add grilled tofu, tempeh, or a boiled egg for extra protein.
- Low-Carb Version: Swap brown rice for cauliflower rice or shredded lettuce.
- Extra Spice: Add fresh jalapeño slices or a drizzle of hot sauce for more heat.
- Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle nutritional yeast or crumbled feta for added savoury depth.
- Southwest Style: Add diced bell peppers and a dollop of Greek yoghurt for a creamy, tangy touch.
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in some toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds for extra texture and nutrients.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the avocado separate to prevent browning.
- Freezing: Freeze the black beans, corn, and rice separately for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm the rice and beans in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of water to prevent drying.
- Meal Prep Tip: Assemble the ingredients in advance, keeping the salsa and avocado separate until ready to serve.