SPICY BLACK BEAN AND BROWN RICE BOWL
This Spicy Black Bean and Brown Rice Bowl is a nutritious, flavour-packed meal perfect for lunch or dinner. Featuring protein-rich black beans, fibre-dense brown rice and bold spices like cumin, paprika, salt and chilli powder, it delivers a satisfying balance of heat and vigour. Garlic-infused olive oil enhances the depth of flavour, while the simplicity of the dish makes it ideal for quick meals and meal prep. Naturally vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free, this bowl is a wholesome, plant-based option that can be customised with toppings like avocado, salsa or roasted vegetables. With minimal prep time and easy storage options, it’s a convenient go-to meal for busy days. Whether you’re looking for a high-protein vegan dish, a meal-prep-friendly option or a spicy comfort meal, this black bean and rice bowl is a delicious and nourishing choice that fits a variety of dietary needs.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Main Course, Lunch, Dinner
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Mexican, Latin American
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Sauté, Simmer, Quick & Easy
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Healthy Eating, Weeknight Dinner, Meal Prep
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
High Protein, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, High Fibre
DISH TYPE
Rice Bowl, Plant-Based Meal, Protein Bowl
INGREDIENTS
These are the following ingredients for the Spicy Black Bean and Brown Rice Bowl:
- ½ cup cooked black beans
- ¼ cup cooked brown rice
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon chilli powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon olive oil
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 10g
- Fats: 6g
- Fibre: 10g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
PREPARATION
These steps are followed for the preparation of Spicy Black Bean and Brown Rice Bowl:
- Cook the brown rice: If not pre-cooked, rinse ¼ cup brown rice and cook in ½ cup water for about 20 minutes or until tender.
- Prepare the beans: If using canned black beans, drain and rinse them well. If using cooked dry beans, ensure they are tender.
- Heat the pan: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add spices: Stir in the cumin, paprika, chilli powder and salt, allowing them to toast slightly for enhanced flavour.
- Combine ingredients: Add the cooked black beans and brown rice to the skillet, stirring well to coat with the seasoning.
- Simmer: Let the mixture cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through, stirring occasionally.
- Serve: Transfer to a bowl and enjoy as it is or garnish with avocado, fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
10 minutes
TIPS
Here are some helpful tips for Spicy Black Bean and Brown Rice Bowl:
- Use fresh garlic: Minced fresh garlic enhances the flavour more than garlic powder.
- Adjust spice level: For a milder taste, reduce chilli powder; for extra heat, add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
- Make it creamy: Stir in mashed avocado for a creamy texture.
- Boost protein: Add grilled tofu, tempeh or a fried egg for extra protein.
- Quick meal prep: Cook a large batch of brown rice and black beans in advance for easy meals throughout the week.
VARIATIONS
- Tex-Mex Style: Add fresh salsa, shredded lettuce and a dollop of dairy-free sour cream.
- Southwest-Inspired: Include roasted corn, bell peppers and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast.
- Asian Fusion: Replace cumin and paprika with soy sauce and sesame oil for a different twist.
- High Protein Boost: Add quinoa instead of rice for more protein and amino acids.
- Loaded Bowl: Top with diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, shredded cheese or crumbled tortilla chips for extra crunch.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: The rice and beans can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
- Reheating: Add a splash of water when reheating to prevent drying out.