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Spicy Mexican Quinoa

Vibrant one-pot Mexican quinoa with black beans, corn, and spices.

Prep Time Cook Time Total Time Servings
10 mins 25 mins 35 mins 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (200g) quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups (500ml) vegetable broth
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup (170g) black beans, cooked or tinned (drained and rinsed)
  • 1 cup (150g) corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chilli powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh coriander, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lime wedges (for serving)

Method

  1. Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water in a fine mesh sieve.

  2. In a saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

  3. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and set aside.

  4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.

  5. Add the minced garlic and jalapeño pepper. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.

  6. Add the diced red bell pepper, black beans, and corn kernels to the skillet.

  7. Stir in the ground cumin, chilli powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.

  8. Add the cooked quinoa to the skillet and mix well, ensuring all ingredients are evenly combined.

  9. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through and allow the flavours to meld.

  10. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh coriander.

  11. Serve hot with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the dish.

Nutrition (per serving, approximate)
Calories ~265 kcal
Protein ~11g

Notes

This is an excellent meal prep recipe that keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Add avocado, sour cream, or cheese for extra richness. Can be served as a side dish or as a filling for burritos and tacos. For extra heat, leave some seeds in the jalapeño.

Tags: #vegetarian #mexican #onepot