In Instant Pot, add ingredients in the following order (do not change): onion, brown rice, black beans, water, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, salt and diced tomatoes. Do not stir.
Close the lid, turn pressure vent to Sealing and press Pressure Cook on High or Manual button for 25 minutes - if you have 8 quart Instant Pot, 30 minutes - if you use 6 quart Instant Pot.
After Instant Pot has finished cooking, wait 10 minutes and release remaining pressure using Quick Release method by turning valve to Venting and open the lid. If you live at altitude 2000 ft and above, use Natural Release to allow pressure subside on its own.
Add cilantro and green onion (if using) and gently stir. If rice and beans are a bit liquidy or tiny bit crunchy, close the lid and let them sit for 10-20 more minutes.
Serve warm with hot sauce if desired and our favourite addition - cucumber and tomato salad. We love the pairing of hearty rice and beans with cool and fresh cucumber and tomato salad or guacamole.
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Notes
Recipe retested in May 2023: I have originally cooked this recipe in my 8 quart Instant Pot for 22 minutes and quick release, at a sea level. A few readers have reported that beans were not cooked. I just re-tested the recipe in my 6 quart Instant Pot and it needs 30 minutes cook time with preferably 10 minutes Natural Release. If you live at altitude 2000 feet and above, maybe cook rice and beans in Instant Pot for 30-35 minutes and use Natural Release. Extra time won't hurt the recipe.
Store: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Freezer Meal: In a gallon size Ziplock bag, add all ingredients except water finishing with tomatoes on top. Let as much air out as possible, seal and freeze for up to 3 months. Pressure cook on High from frozen (don't forget to add water) for 25-30 minutes with Quick Release.
Can I use white rice? No. White rice and brown rice require different amount of liquid and cooking time.
Beans: Use black beans only, pinto and red beans take longer to cook. No need to soak. Do not use canned beans, liquid ratio will be off.
Can I add chicken? Yes. Small pieces of chicken breast or thighs added on top of rice will work. No other changes necessary. Kielbasa will too!
What to do for 3 quart Instant Pot? Cut ingredients in half but keep same cooking time.
If your rice and beans come out crunchy: Stir, close the lid and let it sit for 20 minutes. It should get there. Also, next time cook for 30-35 minutes and let pressure come down on its own. It could be the altitude or rice and beans brand.