Introduction
As the leaves turn to hues of amber and gold, our palates crave something warm, hearty, and comforting. Enter the Slow Cooker Quinoa and Black Bean Stew — a dish that embodies the essence of autumn in every spoonful. This delightful stew is a testament to how simple ingredients can create explosive flavors. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy meal by the fireplace, this recipe is easy to make and brimming with wholesome goodness. Gather your loved ones and let’s dive into a hearty bowl of nourishment.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours on low or 2 hours on high
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (low) or 2 hours 15 minutes (high)
- Servings: 6-8
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes, with juice
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a slow cooker, combine the quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, bell peppers, onion, and garlic.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the quinoa is fully cooked.
- Before serving, stir in the lime juice for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Spoon the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot.
Helpful Tips
For a thicker stew, reduce the vegetable broth by 1 cup. Beginners can simplify the recipe by using pre-chopped frozen vegetables. Feel free to customize with your favorite beans or add a kick with some diced jalapenos.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This stew freezes beautifully; simply let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Ingredient Substitutions
Quinoa can be substituted with brown rice or barley. For added protein, toss in some shredded chicken or ground turkey. If you’re out of fresh lime, lemon juice is a great alternative.
Pairings and Complementary Dishes
This hearty stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side of tortilla chips. A fresh green salad provides a nice contrast, and a steaming mug of spiced tea or hot apple cider makes the perfect cozy drink pairing.
Conclusion
Dig into the warmth and wholesomeness of our Slow Cooker Quinoa and Black Bean Stew this fall. Share your delicious creations with us by using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. Your feedback is always welcome on our website, Zynahz. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest recipes and follow us on social media. Let’s embrace the magic of cooking and family bonding together!
