Name: Chili Beans with Rice Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 2 h 50 min
Total time: 2 h 55 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups pinto beans; 1 lb Ground Beef; 2 cups white rice; 1 yellow onion; 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; 2 cloves garlic; 2 tbsp chili powder; 1 tbsp parsley; 14 oz tomatoes; 1 jalapeno pepper; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp sugar; ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves

This delightful dish of chili beans with rice offers a hearty and flavorful meal that's perfect for any day of the week. Combining the rich taste of ground beef, the spicy kick of jalapeno pepper, and the freshness of cilantro leaves, this recipe is sure to please your taste buds.

Photos of Chili Beans with Rice Recipe

The ingredients in this recipe are mostly common, but there are a few that may not always be found in your pantry. You might need to visit the supermarket for pinto beans, jalapeno pepper, and fresh cilantro leaves. Make sure to pick up these items to ensure the full flavor of the dish.

Ingredients For Chili Beans With Rice

Pinto beans: Commonly used in Mexican cuisine, these beans are known for their creamy texture and rich flavor.

Ground beef: Adds a hearty and savory element to the dish. Use lean beef for best results.

White rice: Acts as a neutral base that complements the spicy and savory flavors of the chili beans.

Yellow onion: Provides a sweet and tangy flavor that enhances the overall taste.

Extra-virgin olive oil: Used for sautéing, it adds a rich depth of flavor.

Garlic: Adds a pungent and aromatic element to the dish.

Chili powder: Brings heat and complexity to the chili beans.

Parsley: Adds a fresh, slightly peppery flavor.

Tomatoes: Contribute a tangy and slightly sweet flavor.

Jalapeno pepper: Adds a spicy kick to the dish.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients.

Sugar: Balances out the acidity of the tomatoes.

Cilantro leaves: Adds a burst of fresh, citrusy flavor right before serving.

One reader, Larry Mann says:

This chili beans with rice recipe is fantastic! The flavors blend perfectly, and the dish is both hearty and satisfying. The instructions are clear, making it easy to follow. My family loved it, and it's definitely going into our regular meal rotation. Highly recommend giving it a try!

Larry Mann

Techniques Required

How to cook beans on the stove top: Explanation on boiling and simmering beans until soft. How to use a pressure cooker: Explanation on cooking beans in a pressure cooker and safety measures. How to cook rice: Explanation on boiling, simmering, and steaming rice. How to sauté onions: Explanation on cooking onions in olive oil until translucent. How to brown meat: Explanation on cooking ground beef until browned on all sides. How to combine ingredients: Explanation on mixing cooked beans, meat, onions, and other ingredients together.

How To Make Chili Beans with Rice

Enjoy some delicious easy-to-make chili beans to serve over rice! This rich dish is made up of pinto beans, jalapeno, ground beef, and crushed tomatoes.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 2 hours 50 minutes

Total: 2 hours 55 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2cupspinto beans,(1 lb) dry, or 4 (15 oz) cans pinto beans, drained
1lbground beef,or ground turkey
2cupswhite rice,uncooked
1yellow onion,(about 1½ cups) chopped
2tbspextra-virgin olive oil
2clovesgarlic,(about 1 tsp) chopped
2tbspchili powder
1tbspparsley,chopped
14oztomatoes,(1 can) crushed, or whole peeled tomatoes
1jalapeno pepper,cooked, canned, sliced
1tspsalt
1tspsugar
½cupfresh cilantro leaves

Instructions

Stove Top Method:

Put the beans into a pot and cover with at least 3-inches of water—about 3 quarts for 2½ cups of dry beans.
Bring to a boil and then lower heat to simmer, covered, for about 2½ hours. The cooking time will vary depending on the batch of beans you have.
The beans are done when they are soft and the skin is just beginning to break open.

Pressure Cooker Method:

Put the beans into a 4-quart or larger pressure cooker with a 15 pounds weight.
Fill the pressure cooker with water up to the line that indicates the capacity for the pot (about ⅔ of the way).
Cook for 30 to 35 minutes, until the beans are soft and the skins are barely breaking open. Allow the pressure cooker to cool completely before opening.
If there is resistance when attempting to open the cooker, do not open it, allow it to cool further. Follow the directions for the brand of the pressure cooker.
Following either method, strain the beans from the cooking water.

Rice:

When ready to begin making the chili beans (after the dried beans are cooked), cook the rice.
Put 2 cups of rice in a medium thick-bottomed pot.
Add 3 cups of water (less or more depending on package instructions), 1 tablespoon of butter, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
Bring to a boil, lower the heat to a low simmer, cover the pot and let cook for 15 minutes (again check the package instructions).
Remove from the heat, keep covered, and let steam for 10 minutes.
In a large skillet, sauté onions in 2 tablespoons of olive oil for about 4 minutes until translucent on medium-high heat.
Add the garlic and chili powder and cook for 1 minute more.
Remove the onions to a bowl.
Increase the heat to high, and add the meat to the same pan used to cook the onions.
Let cook for 1 to 2 minutes without moving so that the meat gets browned, then turn to brown on the other sides.
Add the onions and garlic back to the pan. Taste for spiciness and add more chili powder if desired.
Add 1 can of tomatoes, sliced jalapeno pepper, chopped parsley, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of sugar to counteract the acidity of the tomatoes.
Stir to combine.
Once the beans are cooked, drain them.
Add the beans to the meat and onions, adding 1 more teaspoon of salt as the beans go in.
Simmer for 5 to 10 minutes, tasting and adding more salt if needed to taste.
Stir in the cilantro leaves right before serving, or sprinkle on top.
Serve over rice or with warm corn tortillas.

Recipe Notes

Tomatoes and jalapeño can be substituted with 1 cup of Pace brand salsa, which works fine.
If using dry beans, older beans may take longer to cook to become tender. If the dry beans are soaked for several hours ahead of time, they will require less cooking time.
If using dry beans, cook the beans on the stove top or in the pressure cooker.

Nutrition

Calories: 1083.31kcal
Fat: 32.02g
Saturated Fat: 10.06g
Trans Fat: 1.34g
Monounsaturated Fat: 15.53g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.26g
Carbohydrates: 148.39g
Fiber: 18.29g
Sugar: 7.49g
Protein: 48.54g
Cholesterol: 80.51mg
Sodium: 791.62mg
Calcium: 174.77mg
Potassium: 2123.64mg
Iron: 9.07mg
Vitamin A: 118.16µg
Vitamin C: 28.44mg

Technique Tip for This Recipe

When browning the ground beef, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding can cause the meat to steam rather than brown, which will affect the flavor and texture of your chili beans. Cook the meat in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.

How to Save Time on This Recipe

Use canned beans: Substitute dried pinto beans with canned beans to save hours of cooking time.

Pre-chop ingredients: Chop the onion, garlic, and jalapeno pepper in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Instant rice: Use instant white rice instead of traditional rice to cut down on cooking time.

Batch cook ground beef: Cook and freeze ground beef in advance for quick assembly.

One-pot method: Combine all ingredients in one pot to reduce cleanup time.

Substitute Ingredients For Chili Beans with Rice Recipe

pinto beans - Substitute with black beans: Black beans have a similar texture and flavor profile, making them a good alternative in chili recipes.
ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can absorb the flavors of the spices well.
white rice - Substitute with brown rice: Brown rice offers more fiber and nutrients, providing a healthier alternative.
yellow onion - Substitute with red onion: Red onions can add a slightly different flavor but still provide the necessary aromatic base.
extra-virgin olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and a high smoke point, making it suitable for cooking.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used if fresh garlic is unavailable, though the flavor may be slightly less intense.
chili powder - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can add the necessary heat, though it is spicier, so use less.
parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro can provide a fresh, herbaceous flavor similar to parsley.
tomatoes - Substitute with tomato sauce: Tomato sauce can provide a similar tomato flavor and consistency.
jalapeno pepper - Substitute with serrano pepper: Serrano peppers are slightly hotter but can provide a similar flavor and heat.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, though it will also add a different taste profile.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can provide a similar sweetness with a slightly different flavor.
fresh cilantro leaves - Substitute with fresh basil leaves: Fresh basil can add a different but complementary fresh, aromatic flavor.

Best Way to Present This Dish

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the chili beans and rice in a refined, minimalist portion to emphasize quality over quantity.
Use decoration: Garnish the dish with finely chopped cilantro leaves and a delicate slice of jalapeno pepper for a pop of color and freshness.
Layer the components: Create a base layer of white rice, followed by a generous spoonful of chili beans and ground beef mixture, ensuring each layer is distinct and visually appealing.
Highlight textures: Ensure the beans are tender and the ground beef is perfectly browned to provide a contrast in textures that will delight the palate.
Use high-quality ingredients: Emphasize the use of fresh, high-quality tomatoes, yellow onion, and extra-virgin olive oil to elevate the overall flavor profile.
Incorporate a sauce: Drizzle a light tomato and chili powder reduction around the plate to add an extra layer of flavor and sophistication.
Balance flavors: Ensure the dish has a harmonious balance of spiciness from the jalapeno pepper and chili powder, sweetness from the sugar, and acidity from the tomatoes.
Use elegant plating: Plate the dish on a pristine white plate to allow the vibrant colors of the chili beans and rice to stand out, creating a visually stunning presentation.
Add a touch of luxury: Finish the dish with a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley and a light drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil for an added touch of elegance and richness.
Serve with complementary sides: Accompany the dish with warm corn tortillas neatly folded on the side, providing an additional texture and a traditional touch.

Best Tools for This Recipe

Pot: Used for cooking the beans on the stovetop. It should be large enough to hold the beans and water with some extra space.
Pressure cooker: An alternative to the pot for cooking beans. It speeds up the cooking process significantly.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the beans, rice, and water.
Medium thick-bottomed pot: Used for cooking the rice. The thick bottom helps distribute heat evenly.
Large skillet: Used for sautéing the onions, garlic, and cooking the ground beef.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the onions, garlic, and meat without scratching the skillet.
Knife: Necessary for chopping the onion, garlic, jalapeno pepper, and parsley.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients.
Strainer: Used to drain the beans after they are cooked.
Bowl: Used to temporarily hold the sautéed onions and garlic.
Can opener: Needed to open the can of tomatoes.
Measuring spoons: Used for measuring the olive oil, chili powder, parsley, salt, and sugar.
Lid: For covering the pot while cooking rice and beans to retain heat and moisture.
Serving spoon: Used for serving the chili beans over rice or with tortillas.

How to Store / Freeze This Dish

Storing Chili Beans with Rice:
- Allow the chili beans and rice to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation, which can lead to sogginess and spoilage.
- Transfer the chili beans into an airtight container. Separate the rice into another container to maintain its texture.
- Store both containers in the refrigerator. The chili beans will stay fresh for up to 4 days, while the rice can last for about 3 days.
- For best results, reheat the chili beans on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Reheat the rice in the microwave, covered with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
Freezing Chili Beans with Rice:
- Cool the chili beans and rice completely before freezing. This step is crucial to avoid ice crystals forming, which can affect the texture.
- Portion the chili beans into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Leave some space at the top of the containers to allow for expansion.
- Do the same for the rice, ensuring it’s in a separate container or bag. Label each container with the date and contents.
- Freeze the chili beans and rice for up to 3 months. For optimal flavor and texture, consume within this period.
- To reheat, thaw the chili beans and rice in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat the chili beans on the stove over medium heat, adding a bit of water or broth if needed. Reheat the rice in the microwave, covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Pro Tips:
- When reheating chili beans, consider adding a fresh sprinkle of cilantro or a dash of chili powder to revive the flavors.
- If you find the rice has dried out slightly after freezing, stir in a teaspoon of olive oil or a pat of butter to restore its moisture and richness.
- For a quick meal prep, freeze individual portions of chili beans and rice together in single-serving containers. This makes for an easy grab-and-go lunch or dinner option.

How to Reheat Leftovers

Stovetop Method:
1. Place the leftover chili beans with rice in a medium-sized pot.
2. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking and to rehydrate the ingredients.
3. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
4. Once the mixture is heated through, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Microwave Method:
1. Transfer the leftover chili beans with rice to a microwave-safe dish.
2. Add a small amount of water or broth to keep the dish moist.
3. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
4. Microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
5. Check the temperature and continue heating in 30-second intervals if needed.
6. Once heated through, let it sit for a minute before serving.
Oven Method:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the leftover chili beans with rice in an oven-safe dish.
3. Add a splash of water or broth to keep the dish from drying out.
4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
5. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
6. Stir halfway through the heating process to ensure even warming.
7. Remove from the oven, stir, and serve hot.
Slow Cooker Method:
1. Transfer the leftover chili beans with rice to your slow cooker.
2. Add a small amount of water or broth to keep the dish moist.
3. Set the slow cooker to the low setting.
4. Heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
5. Once heated through, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
6. Serve directly from the slow cooker, keeping it on the warm setting if needed.
Sous Vide Method:
1. Place the leftover chili beans with rice in a vacuum-sealed bag or a resealable plastic bag using the water displacement method.
2. Preheat your sous vide water bath to 165°F (74°C).
3. Submerge the bag in the water bath and cook for about 1 hour.
4. Once heated through, carefully remove the bag from the water bath.
5. Open the bag and transfer the contents to a serving dish.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.

Random Fact About This Recipe

A random fact about this recipe is that pinto beans are a staple in Mexican cuisine and are often used in dishes like chili and refried beans. They are not only delicious but also packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.

Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

This chili beans with rice recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like pinto beans, ground beef, white rice, and tomatoes are affordable and can be bought in bulk. The use of onions, garlic, and cilantro adds flavor without significantly increasing the cost. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Healthy or Unhealthy?

This chili beans with rice recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish, but it has some nutritional considerations.

The positives include:

Pinto beans: High in fiber and protein, beneficial for digestion and muscle repair.
Tomatoes and jalapeno: Rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
Garlic and onions: Offer anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
Cilantro and parsley: Add freshness and essential nutrients.

However, there are areas of concern:

Ground beef: High in saturated fats, which can impact heart health.
White rice: Less fiber and nutrients compared to whole grains.
Salt and sugar: Excessive amounts can lead to hypertension and other health issues.

To make this recipe healthier:

Replace ground beef with leaner protein options like ground turkey or chicken.
Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for added fiber and nutrients.
Reduce salt: Use herbs and spices to enhance flavor without relying on salt.
Skip the sugar: The natural sweetness of tomatoes should suffice.
Add more vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra vitamins and minerals.
Use olive oil sparingly: Consider using a non-stick pan to reduce the amount of oil needed.

Editor's Thoughts

This chili beans with rice recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender pinto beans, savory ground beef, and aromatic spices. The step-by-step instructions are clear, but the process is time-consuming, especially for the beans. Using a pressure cooker can significantly reduce the cooking time. The addition of fresh cilantro and jalapeno provides a fresh and spicy kick, while the sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes. Serving it over rice or with warm corn tortillas makes it a versatile and satisfying meal. Overall, it's a well-rounded dish perfect for a comforting dinner.

Enhance Your Chili Beans with Rice Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Corn on the Cob: Imagine the smoky sweetness of grilled corn perfectly charred and brushed with a garlic butter blend. The kernels pop with every bite, offering a delightful contrast to the hearty chili beans and rice.

Avocado and Mango Salad: A vibrant salad bursting with the creamy richness of avocado and the tropical sweetness of mango. Tossed with a zesty lime vinaigrette, it adds a refreshing and tangy twist to your meal.

Cheesy Jalapeno Cornbread: Soft, moist cornbread infused with the heat of jalapenos and the gooey goodness of cheddar cheese. This side dish is a perfect companion, soaking up the chili juices while adding a spicy kick.

Roasted Bell Pepper Medley: A colorful array of bell peppers roasted to perfection, bringing out their natural sweetness. Tossed with a hint of olive oil and herbs, this medley adds a burst of flavor and a pop of color to your plate.

Citrus and Herb Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa cooked with a blend of citrus zest and fresh herbs. This light and aromatic side dish complements the robust flavors of the chili beans while adding a nutritious touch.

Other Alternative Recipes

Spicy Beef And Bean Burritos: Wrap up a delicious combination of seasoned ground beef, pinto beans, and cheese in a warm flour tortilla. Top with salsa and sour cream for an extra kick.

Hearty Beef And Bean Stew: A comforting stew featuring tender beef chunks, pinto beans, and a medley of vegetables simmered in a rich broth. Perfect for a cozy night in.

Mexican Rice And Beans: A flavorful side dish or main course with white rice, black beans, corn, and bell peppers. Seasoned with cumin and cilantro, it's a fiesta on your plate.

Beef And Bean Enchiladas: Rolled corn tortillas filled with a savory mixture of ground beef and pinto beans, topped with enchilada sauce and cheese. Bake until bubbly and golden.

Southwestern Beef And Bean Salad: A refreshing salad with grilled beef strips, pinto beans, avocado, corn, and tomatoes. Tossed in a zesty lime vinaigrette.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms. The earthy flavor of mushrooms pairs perfectly with a rich filling of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. A touch of parmesan adds a crispy, golden finish. Serve these bite-sized delights warm, and watch them disappear in no time.

Bruschetta: Transport your taste buds to Italy with this classic bruschetta. Fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic are combined with a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar. Pile this vibrant mixture onto toasted baguette slices for a burst of flavor in every bite. Perfect for a light and refreshing start to any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a rich, molten chocolate center encased in a delicate, fluffy cake. This dessert is perfect for those who crave a decadent treat. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the intense chocolate flavor. The contrast of temperatures and textures will leave your guests in awe. For an added touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top or garnish with a few fresh berries.

Lemon Meringue Pie: This classic dessert features a tangy lemon filling topped with a light and airy meringue. The crisp, buttery crust provides the perfect foundation for the zesty lemon curd. The meringue is beautifully toasted to a golden brown, adding a visual appeal that matches its delightful taste. Serve chilled for a refreshing end to your meal. For a twist, consider adding a hint of lavender to the lemon filling or a touch of vanilla to the meringue.

Why trust this Chili Beans with Rice Recipe:

This recipe for chili beans with rice is a surefire hit, combining the hearty flavors of pinto beans, ground beef, and tomatoes with the aromatic touch of garlic and onions. The step-by-step instructions ensure perfect results, whether you use a stovetop or pressure cooker method. The addition of fresh cilantro and jalapeno pepper adds a fresh and spicy kick, making this dish both comforting and exciting. Trust this recipe for a delicious, well-balanced meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.

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FAQ:

How do I know when the beans are fully cooked?

The beans are done when they are soft and the skin is just beginning to break open. If you're using a pressure cooker, they should be soft and the skins should be barely breaking open after 30 to 35 minutes.

Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

Yes, you can use canned beans to save time. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before adding them to the skillet with the meat and onions.

How spicy is this recipe?

The spiciness can be adjusted to your preference. The recipe includes a jalapeno pepper and chili powder, but you can add more or less depending on how spicy you like it. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can skip the ground beef and add more beans or use a meat substitute like tofu or tempeh. The rest of the recipe remains the same.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the chili beans for up to 3 months. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave when you're ready to eat.