Teresa's Recipes
Enhanced Pinto Bean and Quinoa Stew
Dive into a bowl of this vibrant and nourishing Pinto Bean and Quinoa Stew, a delightful fusion of textures and flavors that warms both the body and soul. Each spoonful is filled with fluffy quinoa, hearty pinto beans, and a colorful medley of fresh vegetables, all simmered together with earthy spices. A splash of zesty lime and a garnish of fresh cilantro elevate this dish, making it a staple of comfort food with roots in traditional Southwestern cuisine. In this region, beans and grains have long been celebrated for their nutritional benefits, forming the backbone of many beloved recipes. Perfect for a chilly evening or a nourishing lunch, this stew not only satisfies hunger but offers a hearty dose of love in every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 medium, diced Onion
- 3 cloves, minced Garlic
- 2 medium, diced Carrots
- 2 stalks, diced Celery
- 1, diced Red bell pepper
- 1 cup, rinsed Quinoa
- 2 cups, cooked (or 1 can, drained and rinsed) Pinto beans
- 4 cups Vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Cumin
- 1, juiced Lime
- 1/4 cup, chopped (plus extra for garnish) Fresh cilantro
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 6
- Dish Type: Main Course
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 7g
- Carbs: 45g
- Protein: 12g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Sugar: 3g
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, and dried oregano. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the spices to release their flavors.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the rinsed quinoa and the cooked pinto beans (or the canned beans). Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the quinoa is fluffy and the stew has thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and stir in the fresh cilantro and lime juice just before serving.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra cilantro if desired.
Tips
- For added protein, consider incorporating diced chicken or turkey.
- Feel free to substitute the pinto beans with black beans or chickpeas for a different flavor profile.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño for some heat!
- This stew can be made ahead of time and freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep.