One Pot Mexican Quinoa Recipe

If you’re looking for a nourishing and flavorful dish that is both simple to prepare and delicious, look no further than this One Pot Mexican Quinoa Recipe. Packed with protein, fiber, and a delightful mix of spices, this dish brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico right to your kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This One Pot Mexican Quinoa Recipe is a go-to for several reasons. First, it requires minimal cleanup since everything is cooked in one pot. Second, it’s incredibly versatile; you can easily adapt it to suit your dietary needs or ingredient availability. Finally, the combination of quinoa, ground turkey (or chicken, or lean ground beef), and vegetables ensures a balanced meal that is both satisfying and nutritious. Plus, it takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish!

Gather These Ingredients

To create this flavorful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound ground turkey, chicken, or lean ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 (15-ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 jalapeno pepper, deseeded and diced
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 1 1/2 cups chicken stock or broth
• 1 avocado, diced (for serving)

Equipment Breakdown

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary equipment:

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking all the ingredients in one pot.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and preventing sticking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables.

Step-by-Step: One Pot Mexican Quinoa Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Meat

In your large pot or Dutch oven, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, chicken, or beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, which should take about 5–7 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the diced jalapeno pepper and ground cumin, allowing the spices to bloom for about 1 minute.

Step 3: Combine the Remaining Ingredients

Next, add the rinsed quinoa, drained corn, drained black beans, and crushed tomatoes to the pot. Pour in the chicken stock or broth, stirring everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Cook the Quinoa

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom.

Step 5: Fluff and Serve

Once cooked, remove the pot from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the quinoa with a fork before serving. Top with fresh diced avocado for a creamy finish.

If You’re Out Of…

If you find yourself missing an ingredient, don’t fret! Here are some substitutes you can try:

• Instead of ground meat, use lentils or diced vegetables for a vegetarian option.
• No quinoa? Try brown rice or couscous instead.
• Out of black beans? Any canned beans like pinto or kidney will work.
• Can’t find jalapeno? Use a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

Steer Clear of These

While this recipe is versatile, there are a few things you should avoid:

• Do not use instant quinoa, as cooking times and textures will differ.
• Avoid using overly salty broth to prevent the dish from becoming too salty.
• Steer clear of canned vegetables with added sugars or preservatives.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

This One Pot Mexican Quinoa Recipe is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: You can freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the texture.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with ground turkey, chicken, or lean ground beef. You can also substitute with plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.

Is quinoa gluten-free?

Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

What can I serve with this dish?

This One Pot Mexican Quinoa is hearty enough to be a standalone meal, but you can serve it with tortilla chips, a side salad, or even some fresh salsa for an extra kick.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for easy meals throughout the week.

One Pan, More Ideas

If you love the ease of one-pot meals, you might also enjoy:

• One Pot Chicken and Rice
• One Pot Pasta Primavera
• One Pot Vegetable Stir Fry
• One Pan Baked Salmon and Asparagus

Before You Go

This One Pot Mexican Quinoa Recipe is not only a delightful meal but also a testament to the joy of cooking with simple ingredients. Its vibrant colors and rich flavors bring a taste of the Southwest to your table, making it a favorite for everyone from busy families to friends gathered for a casual dinner. Remember to get creative with your toppings and sides, and enjoy the delicious journey of cooking at home. Happy cooking!