Brazilian Rice and Beans (Instant pot & Stovetop)

A Taste of Brazil: My Family's Brazilian Rice and Beans Recipe

Brazilian rice and beans are the ultimate authentic Brazilian food, with a comforting aroma and nutty savory flavor! I have a very personal connection with this dish! Not only is it my mother's recipe but eating Brazilian rice and beans is one of my very first life memories!

Picture this: a young child, me, perched in a highchair at my mother's São Paulo kitchen table, sneakily hiding my beans under mounds of fluffy rice in my attempt not to eat them! I was fully expecting my mother to not notice! My mother always caught me, of course, but it seems fitting that this would be a core memory for me because this recipe has been a daily part of my life ever since.

Growing up in a Brazilian family, rice and beans, made it onto our table every single day of the week! No really! I mean rice and beans are pretty much the national dish of Brazil for a reason. Not only because they are delicious, which they undeniably are, but also because this recipe is practical and cheap. In a Brazilian household, you learn early that good food doesn't have to be expensive or complicated. This simple dish offers the perfect balance of proteins, carbs, vitamins, and minerals, essential for a growing family.

After immigrating to Canada, this dish continues to be a part of my diet. It has been a comforting reminder of my roots and a connection to a life that once was. Now, I share my mother's Brazilian rice and beans recipe with my children. They also LOVE our dairy-free Brazilian Pao de Queijo. It makes me proud to share a little taste of Brazilian life, our culture, and traditions.

I have enjoyed so much sharing my Brazilian recipes and finding ways to make them gluten-free and vegan! So if you want a vegan (dairy-free) Brazilian dessert check out our Vegan Brigadeiro!

🥳 Why This Recipe Works

Our Brazilian rice and beans recipe is a family favorite for good reason. It's a testament to how simple ingredients can create a meal that's both delicious and nourishing.

• Family-Friendly: I often make this recipe with my kids, turning cooking time into family bonding time.
• Meal Prep Friendly: It's perfect for meal prepping, ensuring a healthy meal is always ready during busy weekdays.
• Versatile Leftovers: The leftovers can be transformed into various dishes, making it a practical choice for any household (see our Leftover Ideas section).
• Nutritious and Economical: This recipe is not only packed with essential nutrients but also easy on the wallet, proving that healthy eating doesn't have to be expensive.

🥒 Tips for Kids: Will My Kid Eat This?

As a parent of three, I understand the challenge of introducing new dishes to kids. But this Brazilian rice and beans recipe has been a hit in our household, and here's why it might be in yours too:

• Kid-Friendly Flavors: The dish is flavorful without being overpowering, which is perfect for young palates.
• Fun Presentation: Serve it in a way that's visually appealing to kids. Think colorful bowls or letting them 'decorate' their plate with toppings.
• Involve Them in Cooking: Kids are more likely to try something they helped make. Let them assist with simple tasks like rinsing the rice or beans.

For more tips on handling picky eaters, check out my post on navigating meal times with picky eaters.

Brazilian pinto beans are not just a dish; they're a journey into the heart of Brazilian cuisine. Here's a list of the main ingredients, each selected for their role in creating this authentic Brazilian rice and beans.

Pinto Beans Ingredients:

• Dry Pinto Beans: The star of the show, these beans are hearty and flavorful. This recipe uses dry beans as it helps create a richer flavor. By seasoning the beans as they cook this helped create a more authentic Brazilian recipe as well.
• Fresh Onion: Adds a sweet, aromatic base. I always use fresh onions for that authentic taste.
• Fresh Garlic: Essential for that depth of flavor; minced garlic infuses the beans beautifully.
• Bay Leaf: A must for the traditional Brazilian touch. They add a subtle, herbal aroma.
• Paprika: I prefer smoked paprika for its rich, smoky undertone.
• Cumin: Brings a warm, earthy spice that's unmistakable in Brazilian cooking.
• Salt and black pepper: Just a pinch to enhance all the flavors.
• Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its health benefits and smooth flavor.
• Optional - Chili Peppers: For those who like a bit of heat.

Brazilian Rice Ingredients:

• Long Grain White Rice: The foundation of our dish, providing a fluffy and light texture.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the rice, giving it a wonderful aroma and a hint of richness.
• Fresh Onion: Finely chopped, it adds a subtle sweetness.
• Fresh Garlic: Minced, for that essential punch of flavor.
• Salt: To bring out the natural flavors of the rice.
• Water: The key to cooking the rice to perfection.

For full quantities, see the recipe card.

How to Cook Brazilian Pinto Beans

Step 1: Start by Soaking Your Beans

This is crucial for reducing the cooking time. I usually soak mine overnight, but if you're pressed for time, 3 hours should suffice.

Step 2: Drain and Cook

After soaking, drain and rinse the beans. Transfer them to a large pot and add enough water to cover them by 2 inches. Toss in 3 bay leaves, cover, and cook over medium-high heat until they are slightly soft, about 60 minutes.

INSTANT POT: If you're using an instant pot, set to bean and cook for 45 minutes.

Step 3: Preparing the Flavor Base

Start this step once your pinto beans finish cooking and are soft (can squeeze them between your fingers).

In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and spices and sauté until the onions are translucent. About 3 minutes. This step is where the magic happens – slow cooking the onions and garlic allows their flavors to fully develop and infuse the oil.

Step 4: Mash in Some Beans

Scoop out about a third of the cooked beans (leave the broth in the pot) and add them to the onion-garlic mixture. Gently smash them with your spoon. This technique thickens the beans and creates a creamy texture, which is a hallmark of Brazilian-style beans.

Step 5: Final Simmer

Combine the two pots. Add the mashed beans mixture back into the pot (or instant pot) with the remaining beans and their liquid. Stir well and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. The smashed beans will work their magic, thickening the broth and melding the flavors together.

INSTANT POT: Set to simmer and cook for another 30 minutes.

👩🏽‍🍳Step-By-Step: How to Cook Traditional Brazilian Rice

Step 1: Rinse the Rice

Start by thoroughly rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step is crucial for removing excess starch, which helps in achieving that classic Brazilian rice texture - fluffy and non-sticky.

Step 1b: Cook: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Continue to cook until the onion is translucent.

Step 2: Sautee the Rice:

Next add the rinsed rice and stir it for a couple of minutes. This technique, typical in Brazilian cooking, coats the grains with oil and aromatics, enhancing the flavor and texture of the final dish.

INSTANT POT or Rice Cooker: If using an instant pot, set it to sautee and follow the same steps. If using a rice cooker you may have to skip this step. Just add all the ingredients, stir, and set to cook. The rice will still be flavorful but may lack the extra flavors achieved when sauteeing beforehand.

Step 3: Boil and Simmer:

Add water and salt to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer. Cook until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Remember, the key to perfect rice is not to stir it too much while it's cooking.

INSTANT POT: Add water and set to cook for 12 minutes on rice setting.

Step 4: Rest and Fluff:

Once the rice is cooked, turn off the heat and let it sit covered for a few minutes. This allows the rice to steam and become perfectly fluffy. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

🥡Storaging and Reheating

Proper storage is key to enjoying your meal for days to come.

Fridge Storage: Allow the rice and beans to cool to room temperature before storing. Store them in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent any fridge odors from seeping in. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezer Storage: Freeze the rice and beans in separate containers for better texture upon reheating. Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: For a quick option, reheat in the microwave. Add a little water to the rice to keep it moist. Reheat on the stove over medium heat. Add a splash of water if necessary to prevent drying out.

🍚Substitutions & Canned Beans

We all know the kitchen mantra: "use what we have." It's perfectly okay if you're missing an ingredient or two. This section is here to help you adapt the recipe to what's available in your pantry.

• Rice Varieties: No white rice? No problem! Brown rice is a great alternative. It adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber. Just remember, it might require a longer cooking time.
• Type of Beans: While pinto beans are traditional, feel free to use other types like Brazilian black beans or even kidney beans. Each type brings its unique flavor and texture. Keep in mind that each bean will require a different initial cook time.
• How to Use Canned Beans: If you prefer to use canned beans simply drain and rinse your beans. Then skip to Step 2 in the step-by-step instructions.
• Spice It Up or Down: Adjust the heat preference to your liking. If you're out of chili peppers, a dash of cayenne pepper or even hot sauce can do the trick.

🍴Leftover ideas

Leftovers can be a delightful opportunity to get creative. Here are some ideas to repurpose your Brazilian rice and beans:

Burrito Filling: Use the leftovers as a hearty filling for burritos or wraps.

Rice Bowls: Top the rice with a variety of toppings like avocado, salsa, and sour cream for a quick lunch.

Bean Soup: Blend the beans with some broth to create a comforting bean soup. Add some veggies for extra nutrition.

🧠Brain Benefits

As a neuroscientist, and mom who cares deeply about brain health, I can fully stand behind this recipe. Beans are not just a staple in Brazilian cuisine; they're also a powerhouse for brain health. Here are the top three brain health benefits of incorporating beans into your diet:

1. Rich in Antioxidants: Beans are loaded with antioxidants, which are crucial for combating oxidative stress in the brain (1). This stress is linked to aging and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. The antioxidants in beans help protect brain cells and maintain cognitive health (1).
2. High in Folate: Folate, or vitamin B9, found abundantly in beans, is essential for brain function (2). It plays a significant role in DNA production and repair and is vital for healthy brain development and functioning. Researchers have shown that getting enough folate is associated with a lower risk of cognitive decline (2).
3. Good Source of Iron: My favorite reason to eat beans! Iron is key for brain health as it aids in oxygen transportation and the production of neurotransmitters (3). Beans are particularly rich in iron, which supports overall brain function and cognitive abilities (3).

❔FAQ