White rice and black beans instant pot

If you’ve been here for a while you know I’m all about easy recipes. I think this Instant Pot Black Beans and Rice recipe is my new favorite. Why? Because you can cook black beans and brown rice together in the Instant Pot! No soaking or precooking. It turns out great, like magic. 

White rice and black beans instant pot

I’ve always been a fan of quick and easy meals. Years ago, when I was a stay at home mom I would still stick to simple meals. I had my hands full with kids, the house, and everything that comes with that role.

Now I work full time, still have to handle all the “mom stuff” and cooking can easily take a back seat to getting a little down time.

That is one of the main reasons I love my Instant Pot. It makes life easier for me. You may love your slow cooker, I used to use mine a lot more. Which ever you choose, having tools that make life more efficient and that set you up to be successful in your goals is a good investment.

White rice and black beans instant pot

This recipe is pretty simple. I wanted it to be a blank canvas so I could add difference spices and flavors. Before you skip over this no-fuss meal give it a try.

It took a few tries to get the beans and rice ready at the same time but this totally worked for us. If you want something with a slightly more complex flavor try my Instant Pot Mexican Casserole!

Prep Time 5 minutes

Cook Time 28 minutes

Additional Time 30 minutes

Total Time 1 hour 3 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 cup diced onion
  • 4 cloves of garlic, crushed and minced
  • 2 cups brown rice
  • 2 cups dry black beans
  • 8 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1-2 limes (optional)
  • Avocado (optional)
  • 4 ounce can of diced green chiles (optional)

Instructions

  1. Dump diced onion and garlic into the Instant Pot liner.
  2. Add the brown rice and black beans.
  3. Pour the water into the pot liner and add the salt. If using, add the diced green chiles.
  4. Secure the lid with the vent sealed.
  5. Select Manual, using the arrows decrease time to 28 minutes.
  6. Once the time is up you can press cancel or unplug the Instant Pot. Allow the pressure to naturally release. (I let it set for 20 minutes before opening the lid.)
  7. Scoop into bowls and squeeze a lime wedge over bowl and stir. Then add a few slices of avocado for garnish.

This recipe makes a lot of food! I estimate at least 6 servings depending on how much you eat.

If you want more flavor, try adding your favorite salsa, this homemade Pico de Gallo, homemade guacamole or your other favorite flavors. I almost always make this with a can of green chili now but when I first started making this I left it plain and would spice it up later.

Find more easy and delicious Vegan Instant Pot recipes on my Instant Pot page!

Reader Interactions

Instant Pot Rice and Beans is made with rice, beans, and spices on a tomato, a hearty and healthy main dish or side dish. With this recipe, you just add all the ingredients, shut the lid, and let it cook. You will have lunch, dinner, or a hearty snack in less than 30 minutes. 

If you are not in a hurry, this Slow Cooker Rice and Beans recipe is awesome with taco seasoning and arborio rice. Another fantastic way to use your pot is to make our IP Orange Chicken flavored with white wine and orange juice. 

White rice and black beans instant pot

Using your pot makes this one of those easy recipes you can just set and forget. It is an easy meal you can make in minutes with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

This is one of those healthy instant pot recipes you can feel good about feeding your family. The perfect recipe for the next time you do not feel like having to do a lot of prep work.

This IP Cream Cheese Chicken Soup is the perfect comfort food with rich cream cheese and ranch seasoning. 

White rice and black beans instant pot

Ingredients needed:

You can make this great recipe with these simple ingredients. Scroll down to see the exact measurements on our recipe card. 

  • Large red onion: Chopped.
  • White or brown rice: Rinsed.
  • Black beans: Or your favorite.
  • Cold water or chicken broth
  • Diced tomatoes: We used low sodium.
  • Jalapeno: Chopped.
  • Spices: Cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, oregano, salt, and cilantro. 
  • Hot sauce: Optional.

How to make instant pot rice and beans recipe?

  1. Mix: First, add all the ingredients to the pot in the following order. Onion, rice, beans, water or broth, cumin, garlic, chili powder, paprika, salt, jalapeno, diced tomatoes. onion, 
  2. Cook: Then, shut the lid and turn the vent to sealing. Cook on high pressure or manual for 22 minutes. 
  3. Release: After, use the quick release by turning the valve to vent and open the lid.
  4. Add: Last, add the cilantro and stir gently. If it is too thin or crunchy, close the lid and wait another 10 minutes. 
  5. Serve: Finally, serve right away with hot sauce.

White rice and black beans instant pot

Recipe variations:

  • Make it red: Alternatively, use small red beans to make instant pot red beans.
  • Or pinto: Or try pinto beans or whatever you like. 
  • Long grain: Feel free to use long grain rice.
  • Pepper: Add some black pepper for a spicier flavor.
  • Red pepper: If you really want some spicy rice, use red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning.
  • Dry: If you are going to use dry beans, soak them overnight first. 
  • Other broth: Use beef or vegetable broth instead if you want.
  • Coconut milk: For a creamier dish, use coconut milk instead of water or broth.
  • Bay leaves: For a more unique taste, toss a few bay leaves on top before cooking.
  • Taco: In addition, make this taste more Mexican by adding a tablespoon of taco seasoning!

How to serve:

This rice recipe is perfect for a side dish or snack any time of day. Or try one of these ideas:

  • Sprinkle some chopped green onions or bell pepper on top for more flavor.
  • Add some chicken to make instant pot chicken, rice, and beans recipe.
  • Also, sour cream goes well with this dish, whether you add it to the mix or use it on the side.
  • Guacamole also goes great with this great recipe.
  • Don’t forget the tortilla chips for those who like to dip. 

White rice and black beans instant pot

Frequently asked questions

How much water do I need in my pot to cook one cup of dried beans?

Although it can depend on what kind of beans you are using, you will typically need about two or three cups of water.

For each cup, use two or three times the amount of beans for best results. Also, it has to be covered completely by water.

How long does it take to cook dried beans in a pressure cooker?

Instead of having to soak overnight, you can speed that up to just minutes with your instant pot pressure cooker. F

or example, black beans or blackeyed peas take about five minutes, kidney, cannellini, and pinto beans take approximately eight minutes, and chickpeas can take up to 15 minutes.

Is rice better in the instant pot?

Pressure cooker rice is much easier in a pressure cooker than boiling on the stovetop.

However, the amount of water and cooking time depends on what type of rice you are using. Most recipes for rice call for a one-to-one ratio.

White rice and black beans instant pot

How to store leftovers:

  • Store: Put any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.
  • Freeze: You could also put your leftovers in a freezer bag and keep them in the freezer for up to six months. 
  • Thaw: Remember to thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. 
  • Reheat: You can reheat your leftovers in the microwave or in a pot on the stove.

More Mexican recipes:

Cooking tips:

  • If you live at altitude 2,000 feet or above cook for 25 minutes instead of 22. 
  • Also, if you live at altitude 2,000 feet or above, use natural release.
  • The cook time may vary depending on the size and brand of your pot as well. 
  • Spritz the bottom of the pot with olive oil spray to keep rice from sticking.
  • Make sure you drain the canned beans if that is what you are using.

White rice and black beans instant pot

  • 1 large red onion (finely chopped)
  • 2 cups white rice (or brown rice - rinsed and drained)
  • 1 cup dried black beans (rinsed)
  • 4 cups water (or low sodium chicken broth)
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons cumin
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 28 oz can diced tomatoes (optionally with gree peppers)
  • 1 bunch cilantro (chopped)
  • 1 jalapeno deseeded and diced

  • Follow the exact order to add/layer the ingredients in the Instant Pot: onion, brown rice, black beans, water, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, paprika, salt and jalapeno, diced tomatoes. Do not stir, just use a spoon to lightly press and distribute the mixture evenly.

  • Close the lid, turn the pressure vent to Sealing on older models, and press Pressure Cook on High or Manual for 22 minutes.

  • After Instant Pot has finished cooking, release pressure using the Quick Release method.

  • Add chopped cilantro and gently stir.

  • If the rice and beans are a bit liquidy or a bit crunchy, close the lid and let them sit for 10 more minutes.

  • Serve warm with sour cream and guacamole.

Calories: 561kcal | Carbohydrates: 117g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 906mg | Potassium: 1313mg | Fiber: 12g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 817IU | Vitamin C: 21mg | Calcium: 190mg | Iron: 7mg

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White rice and black beans instant pot

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Can you cook dried rice and beans together?

Rice and beans are simply wonderful right out of the one cooking pot you need to make it, but it amazingly versatile. Try dolling it up with a bit of chopped cilantro or a dollop of jarred salsa.

Can you cook rice and meat in a pressure cooker at the same time?

All you do is set a trivet right over the beef, then fill one Insert Pan with rice and water, set it on top of the trivet and cook both the beef and rice together.

What is the ratio of black beans to water in Instant Pot?

In general, the perfect ratio of water for cooking black beans in the Instant Pot is 2.5 cups of water per 1 cup of dry beans. If the beans are soaked, you can get away with only 2 cups of water per 1 cup of soaked beans. And yes, you can cook only 1 cup of dry black beans in your Instant Pot, if you want to.

What is the ratio of water to rice in an Instant Pot?

The rice to water ratio for Instant Pot rice is 1 to 1. This means that for every cup of rice you need 1 cup of water. Measure carefully, and use the same measuring cup for both the water and the rice so that your measurement is precise. This way, your rice will turn out perfect every time.