Save to Pinterest Indulge in a wholesome and satisfying Brown Rice Burrito Bowl that combines the nuttiness of fluffy grains with hearty seasoned black beans and a rainbow of fresh vegetables. Topped with creamy queso, tangy sour cream, and fresh avocado, this Mexican-inspired dish is a perfectly balanced and flavorful meal that is easy to prepare and naturally vegetarian.
Save to Pinterest This burrito bowl is designed for those who want a nutrient-dense meal without sacrificing taste. The warm, spiced beans contrast beautifully with the crispness of the peppers and the cool creaminess of the avocado, making every bite a delight. It is an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a vibrant weekend lunch.
Ingredients
- Grains: 1 cup uncooked brown rice, 2 cups water, 1/2 tsp salt
- Beans: 1 can (15 oz) black beans (drained and rinsed), 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp chili powder, 1/4 tsp smoked paprika, salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetables: 1 red bell pepper (diced), 1 yellow bell pepper (diced), 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned), 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), 1 small red onion (finely diced), 1 avocado (sliced), 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- Dairy & Toppings: 1/2 cup queso fresco or shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 lime (cut into wedges)
Instructions
- 1. Cook the brown rice
- Rinse rice under cold water. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups water to a boil. Add rice and salt, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-35 minutes until tender and water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
- 2. Prepare the beans
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine black beans, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat through for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 3. Prepare the vegetables
- Dice peppers, halve tomatoes, dice onion, and slice avocado. If using fresh corn, steam or grill briefly as desired.
- 4. Assemble the bowls
- Divide cooked rice among 4 bowls. Top each with black beans, bell peppers, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and avocado slices.
- 5. Add toppings
- Sprinkle queso fresco or cheddar cheese, add a dollop of sour cream, and garnish with cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best texture, always rinse your brown rice before cooking to remove excess starch. If you are using fresh corn, a quick steam or char on the grill will add a lovely depth of flavor to the bowl. You can prepare the vegetables and beans while the rice is simmering to keep the total time to under an hour.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For an extra kick of heat, try adding pickled jalapeños or a spoonful of your favorite salsa. If you prefer a different bean base, pinto beans or refried beans work wonderfully as substitutes. To make this bowl entirely vegan, simply swap the dairy for plant-based cheese and a dairy-free sour cream alternative.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this hearty bowl alongside a crisp lager or a refreshing lime-infused sparkling water to complement the Mexican-inspired spices. It is also an excellent dish for hosting, as you can set out the components and let guests build their own custom bowls.
Save to Pinterest The Brown Rice Burrito Bowl is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create a feast that is as colorful as it is satisfying. Enjoy this nutrient-packed meal and enjoy the vibrant flavors of a home-cooked burrito bowl any day of the week!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I prepare the components ahead of time?
Yes, this bowl is excellent for meal prep. Cook the brown rice and beans up to 3 days in advance and store separately in the refrigerator. Chop vegetables the morning of serving. Assemble bowls just before eating to prevent the rice from becoming soggy.
- → What can I substitute for brown rice?
White rice, quinoa, or cilantro-lime rice work wonderfully as alternatives. For a lower-carb option, try cauliflower rice. Adjust cooking times according to your chosen grain's package instructions.
- → How do I make this vegan?
Replace queso fresco with cashew cheese or nutritional yeast, and use dairy-free sour cream or coconut cream. All other ingredients are naturally plant-based, making the conversion straightforward while maintaining the bowl's richness.
- → What are good topping additions?
Enhance your bowl with pickled jalapeños, fresh salsa, hot sauce, pumpkin seeds, black olives, or crispy tortilla strips. A squeeze of lime juice brightens all flavors beautifully.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Store assembled bowls in airtight containers for up to 2 days, though the rice may soften slightly. Keep toppings like avocado and sour cream separate if storing longer. Reheat rice gently with a splash of water.
- → Is this dish naturally gluten-free?
Yes, all primary ingredients are gluten-free. However, verify that your queso fresco, spice blends, and any processed items like canned beans are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.