A detailed nutritional comparison
Chili beans outshine white rice in nutritional value, offering significantly more protein and fiber, while being lower in calories and carbs. White rice is a versatile, quick source of energy but lacks many of the micronutrients and health benefits that chili beans provide. Chili beans are better suited for balanced meals, especially for vegans or those focusing on high-fiber, nutrient-dense diets.
| Nutrient | Food 1 | Food 2 | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 206 (per 1 cup cooked) | 120 (per 1 cup cooked) | ✓ |
| Protein | 4.3g | 8.3g | ✓ |
| Carbs | 45g | 27g | ✓ |
| Fat | 0.4g | 1g | ✓ |
| Fiber | 0.6g | 7.6g | ✓ |
| Nutrient | Food 1 | Food 2 | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vitamin D | 0mcg | 0mcg | − |
| Calcium | 15mg | 70mg | ✓ |
| Iron | 0.2mg | 2.1mg | ✓ |
| Potassium | 55mg | 400mg | ✓ |
Chili beans provide almost twice as much protein per serving compared to white rice.
Chili beans have 7g more fiber per serving, making them much better for digestion and satiety.
Chili beans contain 40% fewer calories per serving than white rice.
Chili beans offer significantly more calcium, iron, and potassium compared to white rice.
Food 1: Not Compatible
Food 2: Not Compatible
Both foods are relatively high in carbs and not suitable for a ketogenic diet.
Food 1: Compatible
Food 2: Compatible
Both foods are plant-based and free from animal products.
Food 1: Compatible
Food 2: Compatible
Both foods are naturally gluten-free.
Food 1: Compatible
Food 2: Not Compatible
White rice can fit into some Paleo frameworks, but chili beans are excluded due to the legume restriction in Paleo diets.
Food 1: Not Compatible
Food 2: Not Compatible
Both foods are relatively high in carbohydrates and unsuitable for strict low-carb diets.
Chili beans are the clear winner for overall nutrition, offering more protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals while being lower in calories and carbs. White rice is better for quick energy replenishment or as a neutral base in meals but lacks significant nutrition beyond carbs. Choose rice for simpler carb-loading or digestion-friendly meals, and opt for chili beans for balanced, nutrient-rich dishes.
Choose Food 1 for: Quick energy, carb-heavy meals, easily digestible foods
Choose Food 2 for: High-protein and high-fiber diets, weight management, balanced nutrition