Looking for a low-calorie and nutrient-dense food to add to your diet? Try Mexican chili beans! A 1/2 cup (130 g) serving of these beans contains only 120 calories but packs a punch of protein, fiber, and other essential vitamins and minerals.
Mexican chili beans are a type of bean that is commonly used in Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes. They are usually cooked with spices like chili powder, cumin, and garlic, which gives them a distinct and flavorful taste. Apart from being a great addition to soups, stews, and salads, these beans are also commonly used as a vegetarian substitute for ground beef in dishes like chili and tacos.
In this article, we'll dive deeper into the nutritional benefits, ingredients, and health benefits of Mexican chili beans. We will also share some serving tips, recipes, and precautions to keep in mind when consuming these beans.
Calories in Mexican Chili Beans
As mentioned earlier, a 1/2 cup (130 g) serving of Mexican chili beans contains around 120 calories. This makes them a great low-calorie option for those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, the high protein and fiber content of these beans can help you feel fuller for longer, reducing the risk of overeating or snacking on unhealthy foods. It's important to note that the calorie count of Mexican chili beans may vary depending on how they are cooked and what other ingredients are added to them. If you are looking to keep the calorie count low, try cooking these beans with minimal oil or butter and opt for spices and herbs instead of high-calorie sauces.
What are Mexican Chili Beans?
Mexican chili beans are a variety of beans that have a reddish-brown color and a slightly curved shape. They are also referred to as red beans or kidney beans. What sets them apart from other beans is their bold and spicy flavor profile. This is due to the use of traditional Mexican spices like chili powder, cumin, paprika, onions, and garlic in their preparation. Mexican chili beans are rich in fiber, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals like iron, potassium, and magnesium. They are also a good source of complex carbohydrates, which can provide sustained energy and keep you feeling fueled throughout the day.
Mexican Chili Beans Ingredients
The main ingredients used to make Mexican chili beans are red kidney beans, water, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, garlic, onion, and salt. These beans can also be cooked with other ingredients like bell peppers, celery, and corn depending on the recipe and personal taste preferences. While most of these ingredients are relatively healthy, it's important to keep an eye on the sodium levels as canned beans and tomato paste can be high in salt. To reduce sodium levels, you can either rinse the beans thoroughly or opt for unsalted versions of these ingredients.
Mexican Chili Beans Nutrition Facts
A 1/2 cup (130 g) serving of Mexican chili beans contains the following nutrients: - calories: 120 - Protein: 7g, Fiber: 5g, Fat: 0.5g, Carbohydrates: 21g, Iron: 1.8mg (10% daily value), Potassium: 280mg (6% daily value), Magnesium: 29mg (7% daily value), Vitamin C: 2mg (2% daily value)
Mexican Chili Beans Health Benefits
Mexican chili beans offer a wide range of health benefits due to their nutrient-dense composition. Here are some of the health benefits associated with consuming these beans: - Weight management: The high protein and fiber content of these beans can help regulate appetite and reduce the risk of overeating. - Digestive health: The fiber content in these beans can improve digestion, prevent constipation, and promote overall gut health.
Mexican Chili Beans Serving Size
A 1/2 cup (130 g) serving size of Mexican chili beans is a good starting point for most adults. This serving size contains around 120 calories and provides a good amount of protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients without going overboard on calories. However, the serving size may vary depending on your individual nutritional needs and level of physical activity. It's always a good idea to consult a registered dietitian or nutritionist for personalized nutrition recommendations.
Mexican Chili Beans Recipes
Mexican chili beans can be used in a wide range of recipes, from soups and stews to salads and tacos. Here are a few recipe ideas to get you started: - Vegetarian chili: Replace ground beef or turkey with Mexican chili beans for a vegetarian twist on this classic dish. Add veggies like onions, peppers, and corn for added nutrition and flavor. - Mexican bean salad: Mix Mexican chili beans with greens, corn, tomatoes, and avocado for a hearty and healthy salad. Top with a dressing made from lime juice, olive oil, and chili powder for added flavor.
Mexican chili beans do not contain any common allergens like nuts, dairy, or wheat. However, some people may be allergic to certain spices or herbs used in their preparation, like cumin or chili powder. If you have a history of food allergies, it's always a good idea to check the ingredient list and contact the manufacturer for further information.
Mexican Chili Beans Precautions
While Mexican chili beans offer many health benefits, there are a few precautions that you should keep in mind. Here are some of the precautions associated with consuming these beans: - Flatulence: Like all beans, Mexican chili beans contain complex sugars that can cause gas and bloating in some individuals. To reduce the risk of flatulence, try soaking the beans overnight before cooking or adding some digestive enzymes to your meal. - Sodium content: As mentioned earlier, canned beans and tomato paste can be high in sodium. If you are looking to reduce your sodium intake, try opting for unsalted versions of these ingredients or rinsing the beans thoroughly before cooking.
Mexican Chili Beans Storage
Mexican chili beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you have leftover cooked beans, you can store them in the freezer for up to six months. It's important to note that freezing can affect the texture and flavor of the beans, so be sure to use them up as soon as possible after defrosting.
Beans are a great source of protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients. Including more beans in your diet can help improve overall health and prevent chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Mexican Chili Beans
1. What Are Mexican Chili Beans?
Mexican chili beans are a type of pinto bean that has been seasoned with chili powder, cumin, and other spices. They are often used in Mexican cuisine as a side dish or a filling for burritos, tacos, and other dishes.
2. Are Mexican Chili Beans Good For You?
Yes, Mexican chili beans can be a healthy addition to your diet. They are a good source of protein, fiber, and several vitamins and minerals. However, some canned varieties may contain added salt or preservatives, so it's important to read the labels carefully.
3. How Do You Cook Mexican Chili Beans?
To cook dried Mexican chili beans, soak them overnight in water, then drain and rinse them. Place the beans in a pot with enough water to cover them by about an inch, and add any desired seasonings, such as garlic or onion. Simmer the beans for about 1-2 hours, or until they are tender. Canned beans can be heated on the stove or in the microwave.
4. How Can You Use Mexican Chili Beans in Recipes?
Mexican chili beans can be used in a variety of recipes, including soups, stews, chili, and burritos. They can also be mashed and used as a filling for quesadillas or tacos.
5. Where Can You Buy Mexican Chili Beans?
Mexican chili beans can be found at most supermarkets and grocery stores, often in the canned bean section. They can also be purchased online from retailers that specialize in Mexican or Latin American foods.