One-Pot Mexican Bean Stew with Quinoa: Easy & Flavorful Meal Prep

Craving a hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or prepping ahead? Look no further than this One-Pot Mexican Bean Stew with Quinoa! This vibrant dish bursts with the delicious tastes of Mexico, combining tender beans, fragrant spices, and nutritious quinoa in a single pot for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. It’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a satisfying and healthy option for the whole family. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy cooking times – this stew simmers to perfection in under an hour.

This one-pot wonder is incredibly versatile; feel free to adjust the spices and vegetables to your liking. Whether you prefer a spicier kick or a milder taste, this recipe is easily customizable to suit your preferences. Ready to dive into this delicious and simple recipe? Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions below.

Tools Needed

  • Large pot or Dutch oven

Ingredients

  • Oil
  • Onion: 1 chopped
  • Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
  • Ground Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Ground Coriander: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Ground Cumin: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Smoked Paprika: 1 tablespoon
  • Red Wine: 50ml (or vegetable stock/water)
  • Black Beans: 1 can
  • Black-eyed Peas: 1 can
  • Chopped Tomatoes: 1 can
  • Yellow Peppers: 2, diced
  • Quinoa: 150g
  • Chopped Coriander: 30g (optional)
  • Sour Cream
  • Grated Cheese
  • Tortilla Chips

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Sauté Aromatics and Spices

  • Start with oil in a large pot. Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for a short time.
  • Add ground cinnamon, ground coriander, ground cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine.
Start with oil in a large pot. Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for a short time.Add ground cinnamon, ground coriander, ground cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine.
Sauté Aromatics and Spices

Step 2. Build the Stew

  • Add red wine (or vegetable stock/water) and let it bubble down.
  • Add black beans, black-eyed peas, chopped tomatoes, and diced yellow peppers.
  • Add quinoa. Adjust liquid levels if needed (add a little water if too thick).
Add red wine (or vegetable stock/water) and let it bubble down.Add black beans, black-eyed peas, chopped tomatoes, and diced yellow peppers.Add quinoa. Adjust liquid levels if needed (add a little water if too thick).
Build the Stew

Step 3. Simmer and Cook Quinoa

  • Cook for about 15 minutes, until quinoa is cooked.
Cook for about 15 minutes, until quinoa is cooked.
Simmer and Cook Quinoa

Step 4. Garnish and Serve

  • Stir in chopped coriander (optional).
  • Serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkling of grated cheese.
Stir in chopped coriander (optional).Serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkling of grated cheese.
Garnish and Serve

Read more: Authentic Charro Beans Recipe: South Texas Style

Tips

  • This recipe is great for meal prepping. Make a large batch at the beginning of the week and reheat portions throughout.
  • The smoked paprika gives the stew an intense smoky flavor.
  • Quinoa makes the stew extra filling.
  • Serve with tortilla chips for dipping.

Nutrition

  • N/A

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe without quinoa?

Yes! Simply omit the quinoa and increase the amount of broth or water to maintain the desired consistency.

2. How long can I store the leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It tastes even better the next day!

3. Can I use different types of beans?

Absolutely! Black beans, pinto beans, kidney beans – feel free to experiment with your favorite beans. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.


This One-Pot Mexican Bean Stew with Quinoa is the perfect solution for a quick, healthy, and delicious weeknight meal. Its vibrant flavors and simple preparation make it a recipe you'll return to again and again. Enjoy the satisfying warmth and comforting taste of this versatile and flavorful stew!