Name: Instant Pot Rice and Beans - With Dried Beans
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 small yellow onion, minced; 1 medium yellow, green, or red bell pepper, seeded and diced; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 2 cups long-grain brown rice, rinsed well and drained; 1 cup dried small red or pinto beans, rinsed and sorted; 2 cups low-sodium or salt-free chicken or vegetable broth; 3 cups water; 1 cup salsa; 1 tablespoon Homemade Taco Seasoning or store-bought taco seasoning; Optional toppings: cheese, sour cream, cilantro

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of rice and beans. Not only is it a satisfying meal, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Today, I’m excited to share with you my recipe for Instant Pot Rice and Beans – With Dried Beans. This dish is packed with flavor, nourishing ingredients, and can be made in a fraction of the time it would take to prepare it on the stovetop. The Instant Pot works wonders, cooking dried beans to tender perfection alongside fluffy long-grain brown rice, all infused with spices and vegetables. Let’s dive into the details!

The Upside of Instant Pot Rice and Beans – With Dried Beans

Using the Instant Pot for this dish means you’ll enjoy perfectly cooked rice and beans without the hassle of soaking the beans overnight or stirring away at the stovetop. The pressure cooker locks in flavors while cooking everything evenly, resulting in a dish that is not just quick but also delicious. Plus, it’s a complete meal in one pot!

Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, this recipe is adaptable to your taste preferences and dietary needs. It’s also a fantastic meal prep option, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.

Ingredient Checklist

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 small yellow onion, minced
1 medium yellow, green, or red bell pepper, seeded and diced
1 teaspoon minced garlic
2 cups long-grain brown rice, rinsed well and drained
1 cup dried small red or pinto beans, rinsed and sorted
2 cups low-sodium or salt-free chicken or vegetable broth
3 cups water
1 cup salsa
1 tablespoon Homemade Taco Seasoning, or store-bought taco seasoning
Optional toppings: cheese, sour cream, cilantro

Essential Tools for Success

Instant Pot: The heart of this recipe, making cooking quick and easy.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Wooden spoon or spatula: To stir ingredients during preparation.
Cutting board and knife: For chopping vegetables and prepping ingredients.

Method: Instant Pot Rice and Beans – With Dried Beans

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Add the 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and let it heat up. Once hot, add the minced onion and diced bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are softened and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 2: Add the Remaining Ingredients

Next, add the rinsed brown rice, rinsed beans, broth, water, salsa, and taco seasoning to the pot. Stir everything together to ensure an even distribution.

Step 3: Pressure Cook

Close the lid of the Instant Pot and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing.” Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and set the timer for 35 minutes on high pressure.

Step 4: Natural Release

Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10-15 minutes. After that, carefully switch the valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure.

Step 5: Fluff and Serve

Open the lid and give the rice and beans a good stir. Fluff the mixture with a fork and serve warm, topped with your choice of cheese, sour cream, and cilantro if desired.

Make It Diet-Friendly

Vegan: Use vegetable broth and skip the cheese and sour cream.
Gluten-Free: All ingredients used are naturally gluten-free.
Low-Carb: Swap brown rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Spicy: Add jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.

Troubles You Can Avoid

Make sure to rinse the beans and rice thoroughly to remove excess starch and improve texture.
Don’t skip the natural pressure release; it helps prevent the rice from becoming mushy.
Adjust the liquid levels if you’re using different types of beans, as some may require more water.
Be mindful of the salsa you choose; some brands can be quite salty.

Storage & Reheat Guide

This Instant Pot Rice and Beans – With Dried Beans recipe stores well! Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it on the stovetop with a splash of water to restore moisture.

Quick Q&A

Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

Yes, you can use canned beans to save time. If you opt for canned beans, reduce the cooking time to 20 minutes and add the beans during the last 10 minutes of cooking to heat them through.

What if I don’t have salsa?

No worries! You can substitute salsa with diced tomatoes and a bit of chili powder or hot sauce to add flavor.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! This dish freezes beautifully. Just portion it out into freezer-safe containers and store it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I serve with this dish?

This rice and beans dish pairs well with a simple green salad, guacamole, or homemade tortilla chips for a complete meal experience.

Bring It Home

Now that you have all the steps, tips, and tricks to make your own Instant Pot Rice and Beans – With Dried Beans, it’s time to get cooking! This dish not only offers a fantastic flavor profile but also delivers on nutrition, making it a staple for any busy household. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

With the Instant Pot working its magic, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready to serve in no time. So grab your ingredients, fire up that Instant Pot, and enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of Instant Pot Rice and Beans – With Dried Beans!