Description
A hearty and flavorful Mexican Rice and Bean Bowl that combines nutritious brown rice, black beans, and corn with zesty salsa and taco seasoning. Cooked slowly in a crockpot for tender, melded flavors, finished with melted Mexican cheese and customizable toppings like sour cream, avocado, and cilantro for a comforting, all-in-one meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups brown rice (uncooked)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 jar salsa (approx. 16 oz)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 oz)
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
Toppings
- Sour cream, to taste
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a crockpot, add the uncooked brown rice, chicken broth, drained black beans, drained corn, jar of salsa, and the packet of taco seasoning. Stir gently to mix evenly, ensuring all ingredients are submerged in the broth to facilitate even cooking.
- Cook Slowly: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 4 to 5 hours. Check towards the end of the cooking time to ensure the rice is tender and all flavors are well combined.
- Add Cheese: About 15 minutes before the cooking is complete, stir in the shredded Mexican cheese blend. Replace the lid and allow the cheese to melt and incorporate into the rice mixture.
- Serve with Toppings: Once cooked, scoop the rice and bean mixture into bowls. Garnish with sour cream, avocado slices, and chopped fresh cilantro as desired for added creaminess and freshness.
Notes
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content if preferred.
- Substitute vegetable broth and omit cheese for a vegetarian version.
- For spicier flavor, add chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the crockpot ingredients.
- If you prefer softer beans, rinse canned beans or use pre-cooked beans for additional tenderness.
- This recipe can also be prepared in an Instant Pot by using the rice function and adjusting liquid slightly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Keywords: Mexican Rice Bowl, Bean Bowl, Crockpot Rice, Slow Cooker Mexican, Healthy Mexican Recipe
