Mexican rice and beans

Mexican rice and beans is a beloved staple dish from Mexican cuisine, typically featuring long-grain rice cooked with tomatoes, onions, and garlic, served alongside seasoned pinto or black beans. It's a hearty, comforting combination that forms the foundation of countless meals, from simple family dinners to festive celebrations.

🍳 View the full Mexican rice and beans recipe →

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is a good source of complex carbohydrates and plant-based protein, with the beans providing significant fiber and essential minerals like iron and magnesium. A typical serving ranges from 300 to 500 calories, depending on preparation, making it a satisfying and energy-dense meal.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	350 kcal
Protein	12 g
Carbs	55 g
Fat	8 g
Fiber	10 g
Sugar	4 g
Sodium	680 mg
Iron	3.5 mg
Potassium	450 mg
Magnesium	65 mg
Phosphorus	180 mg
Folate	120 µg
Thiamin (B1)	0.3 mg
Vitamin B6	0.2 mg
Zinc	1.8 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, rice and beans together form a 'complete protein,' providing all essential amino acids, which has been a nutritional cornerstone in many Latin American diets for centuries. The dish also beautifully illustrates the fusion of Old World ingredients (rice) with New World staples (beans), showcasing Mexico's rich culinary history.