Eating on a budget doesn’t mean eating bland beans and rice every night. No way! There are plenty of flavorful rice and beans recipes out there to eat any time, not just when you are pinching pennies! These 20 rice and bean recipes use mostly pantry staples and will keep you full without spending a fortune.
In the realm of budget-friendly and nutritious meals, few options shine as brightly as the classic duo of rice and beans. This dynamic pairing offers not only affordability but also versatility and essential nutritional benefits. Let’s explore the advantages that come with incorporating various types of rice and beans into your diet, along with some delicious recipes to tantalize your taste buds.
What is the cheapest meal to make at home?
Rice and beans will always top the list for the cheapest meal to make at home that will actually leave you feeling full.
I grew up hearing stories of my parents eating lots of rice and beans. Even dumpster diving at the grocery store for bread while my dad was in med school without a paycheck. While my parents may have had some lean times, they also taught me how to enjoy the finer things in life like steak and crab legs once those lean times were over. Even though the lean times ended, rice and beans continued to be a staple in my house.
Just like my parents, we’ve had times where we couldn’t afford much more than rice and beans. During those times I learned that rice and beans don’t have to be bland. In fact, mix with the holy trinity and some cajun sausage and you have one of the most flavorful dishes on Earth.
I’ve rounded up this list of flavorful rice and bean recipes because lean time seem to be upon us right now with coronavirus. I don’t know about you, but we’ve stocked up on a good bit of pantry staples like rice and beans to get us through this crazy time.
Hopefully these recipes will hep you enjoy flavor on a budget while still eating pretty healthy. Enjoy!
7 more reasons to love rice and beans
1. Cost-Effective Staples:
Rice, whether it’s brown, white, basmati, or jasmine, is a pantry staple that can be bought at almost any grocery store. It provides a hearty base for many meals, is readily available, and is incredibly affordable. Combine this with canned beans, like pinto, red, or black beans, and you have an economical and nutritious foundation for countless recipes.
2. Rich in Essential Nutrients:
Beans and rice together form a complete protein, containing all the essential amino acids your body needs. This makes them a great source of protein, especially for those on a tight budget. Additionally, beans are rich in fiber, promoting digestive health and providing a sense of fullness, making them a fantastic choice for a nutritious meal.
3. Versatile Cooking:
Rice and beans can be cooked in various ways to suit your preferences and meal plans. Whether you want a quick and simple rice dish or a more elaborate bean recipe, the options are endless. From chili powder-infused Mexican rice to aromatic Caribbean rice, you can tailor these recipes to your family’s liking and spice level.
4. Long Shelf Life:
Rice and beans have a long shelf life and can be stored in airtight containers for extended periods. This makes them excellent ingredients for meal planning and a great part of emergency preparedness.
5. Convenient Cooking:
With the use of kitchen appliances like the Instant Pot or pressure cooker, the cooking time for rice and beans is significantly reduced. You can prepare a nutritious meal for the whole family in a fraction of the time, leaving you with more time to enjoy your favorite things.
6. Endless Recipe Possibilities:
From burrito bowls to Italian-seasoned rice dishes, the best part about incorporating rice and beans into your meals is the wide range of recipes you can create. Whether you’re a fan of the comforting taste of refried beans or the spiciness of red kidney beans, there’s a recipe to satisfy every palate.
7. Delicious Side Dishes:
Rice and beans can be transformed into delightful side dishes to accompany any main course. Spanish rice, red beans with lime juice, and green beans with garlic powder are just a few examples of the tasty side dishes you can create using these budget-friendly ingredients.
Rice and beans are indeed a culinary delight, offering an array of benefits including cost-effectiveness, nutritional value, versatility, and convenience. By incorporating different types of rice and beans into your meal plans, you not only provide a nutritious meal for your family but also showcase the beauty of these ingredients within a variety of delicious recipes. Start experimenting and find your favorite combination of rice and beans for a nutritious, budget-friendly meal!
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