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Instant Pot Quinoa Bowl: Mexican Quinoa with Black Beans & Veggies

In the realm of nutritious and quick meals, few dishes are as versatile and appealing as a quinoa bowl. Among the myriad of quinoa recipes, the Mexican quinoa bowl stands out as a vibrant, flavourful option that combines protein-rich quinoa with black beans, colourful vegetables, and zesty spices. The Instant Pot makes preparing this dish not just simple, but also incredibly fast, perfect for busy days or when you crave a wholesome meal without the fuss.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Mexican quinoa bowl, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 cup of quinoa, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (400g) of black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup of vegetable broth (or water)
• 1 cup of diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• 1 bell pepper (any colour), diced
• 1 small red onion, diced
• 1 cup of corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of cumin
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon of chilli powder (adjust according to your spice preference)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh coriander (cilantro) for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Instant Pot

Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add a splash of olive oil and let it heat up. Once warm, toss in the diced red onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, ensuring it doesn’t burn.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

To the pot, add the rinsed quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, diced bell pepper, corn, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, chilli powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Cook

Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the vent is sealed. Set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 1 minute. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before carefully releasing any remaining pressure.

Step 4: Fluff and Serve

Once the pressure has fully released, open the lid and give the quinoa mixture a good stir. Fluff the quinoa with a fork to mix all the ingredients well. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference.

Step 5: Garnish and Enjoy

Serve the Mexican quinoa bowl in individual bowls or as a large dish for sharing. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander and a wedge of lime on the side for a zesty finish. This dish pairs beautifully with avocado slices or a dollop of Greek yoghurt for added creaminess.

Nutritional Benefits

Quinoa is a fantastic source of plant-based protein, making it an excellent option for both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Combined with black beans, this dish provides all the essential amino acids needed for a complete protein. Additionally, the colourful vegetables add a wealth of vitamins and minerals, ensuring that this meal is not only delicious but also nutritionally balanced.

Conclusion

The Instant Pot Mexican quinoa bowl with black beans and veggies is a one-pot wonder that offers convenience without sacrificing flavour or health. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a hearty dinner, or meal prep for the week ahead, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Embrace the vibrant flavours of Mexico in your kitchen and enjoy a delightful meal that can be customised to suit your tastes. It’s time to fill your bowl with goodness!

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