Description
This Instant Pot Mexican Quinoa is a quick, flavorful, and wholesome one-pot meal featuring protein-packed quinoa, black beans, corn, and vibrant spices. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, this recipe combines smoky paprika, cumin, and chili powder with salsa and vegetable broth to create a deliciously comforting dish that’s ready in just 18 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa (rinsed)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup salsa (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth or water
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Combine ingredients: Add the rinsed quinoa, drained black beans, corn, salsa, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, vegetable broth, and salt into the Instant Pot. Stir everything together to ensure the spices and liquids are evenly distributed.
- Seal the Instant Pot: Close the lid of the Instant Pot securely and set the valve to the “Sealing” position to prepare for pressure cooking.
- Pressure cook: Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting on high pressure and set the timer for 3 minutes. This short cooking time is sufficient to cook quinoa and meld the flavors perfectly.
- Natural release: Once the cooking time is finished, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes. After this natural release, carefully switch the valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure before opening the lid.
- Serve: Stir the cooked quinoa mixture gently to fluff and combine. Serve hot, topped with your favorite garnishes such as diced avocado, fresh cilantro, or lime wedges for added freshness and flavor.
Notes
- Rinsing quinoa before cooking helps remove its natural bitterness.
- You can adjust the spice levels by choosing mild or spicy salsa according to your preference.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated easily.
- For added protein, consider topping with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream if not following a vegan diet.
- Vegetable broth can be substituted with water, but broth adds more flavor depth.
