Pinquitos give this taco filling a rich, smoky flavor, but if they aren’t available, any small bean will do. Those sensitive to tomatoes note that this taco filling is tomato-free!
1medium bell pepperany color, chopped (about 1 cup)
2clovesgarlicminced
1/2cupquinoarinsed well
1cupwater
2-3teaspoonshigh-quality mild chili powdermore to taste
1teaspoonground cuminmore to taste
1/2teaspoonsaltor to taste
1/4teaspoonchipotle chile powderor to taste
2cupsCOOKED small beanssuch as pinquitos, pink beans, pinto beans, black beans, or azuki, well-drained
1cupfrozen corn kernels
hot sauce to taste
Instructions
Heat a 3-quart non-stick sauté or sauce pan over medium-high heat. Add the onion, and cook until it begins to soften, adding water by the tablespoon if needed to prevent sticking. Add the bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes. Add the garlic and cook, stirring, for another minute.
Add the quinoa, water, and seasonings. Stir well, bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover and cook for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, turn off heat and allow quinoa to stand until all liquid is absorbed, about 10 minutes.
Add the beans and corn to the quinoa. If it seems dry, add a little of the bean broth, but not enough to make it soggy. Add hot sauce and additional chili powder, cumin, or chipotle powder to taste. Cook over medium heat until warmed through.
Notes
To cook 1 pound of Pinquitos from dry in the pressure cooker:Check the beans carefully and remove any debris or damaged beans. Rinse well. Cover with water at least 2 inches above the beans and soak at least 6 hours.Drain the soaking water and rinse. Place the beans in the pressure cooker and add 4 cups of water (enough to barely cover the beans). Cook at high pressure for 12 minutes. Turn off or remove from heat and let stand for 15 minutes. If necessary, release pressure manually. Check to make sure beans are all tender. If not, simmer uncovered until soft. One pound of dried beans will make about 6 cups of cooked beans.Makes enough for at least 2 large tacos or burritos per person.One serving (1/4 of recipe) counts as 1 point on Weight Watchers Freestyle program.