Are you craving a flavorful side dish that’s easy to make? Look no further than Mexican Rice made in a rice cooker! This dish is a delightful combination of rice, spices, and tomatoes that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re serving it alongside tacos, grilled chicken, or just enjoying it on its own, this Mexican Rice is sure to impress. Best of all, it’s a simple recipe that saves you time and hassle in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Set it and forget it! The rice cooker does all the work for you.
- Simple Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a delicious side dish.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this rice fits right in.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Rich in flavors and textures, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.
- Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of spices with fresh ingredients creates a satisfying taste every time.
This recipe stands out due to its perfect balance of flavors and the ease of using a rice cooker, making it a go-to option for busy cooks.
Ingredients Needed
- For the Rice Base:
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- For the Flavor:
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
- To Finish:
- Chopped cilantro (optional)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How to Make Mexican Rice
- Rinse the Rice: Start by rinsing 2 cups of long-grain white rice under cold water until it runs clear. This step removes excess starch and helps your rice stay fluffy.
- Sauté Aromatics: If your rice cooker has a sauté function, turn it on and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking them for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. This builds a flavorful base.
- Combine Ingredients: Next, add the rinsed rice to the cooker. Pour in the 4 cups of broth, the diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Stir gently so everything is evenly mixed.
- Cook the Rice: Close the rice cooker lid and set it to the white rice setting. Let it cook until the rice is done. The cooker will indicate when it’s finished.
- Fluff and Serve: Once cooked, allow the rice to sit for 5 minutes. Fluff it with a fork before serving. Top with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges for a fresh twist.
Serving and Storage Tips
To serve Mexican Rice, consider garnishing it with fresh cilantro and a few lime wedges for added flavor. This dish pairs perfectly with grilled meats, beans, or as a bed for various toppings.
For storing leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. The rice can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep it moist.
Helpful Notes
- Customize Your Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder or add fresh jalapeños if you like it spicy.
- Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make it vegetarian-friendly.
- Add Proteins or Veggies: Mix in cooked chicken, black beans, or peppers to turn this side dish into a hearty main.
Conclusion
Mexican Rice in a rice cooker is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. It’s the perfect side for any meal and can be customized to your taste. Give it a try, and if you enjoyed this recipe, please leave a comment and a star rating! Feel free to share your experience on social media—what variations did you try? We’d love to hear from you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but be sure to adjust the cooking time and the amount of broth, as brown rice typically requires longer cooking.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! You can freeze leftover Mexican Rice in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Why did my rice come out sticky?
Sticky rice could be due to not rinsing the rice beforehand or cooking it in too much liquid. Make sure to rinse the rice until the water is clear and follow the liquid ratio closely.
Print
Mexican Rice in a Rice Cooker
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A flavorful and easy-to-make Mexican Rice dish that brings a delightful combination of spices and tomatoes, perfect as a side for any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Chopped cilantro (optional)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water until it runs clear.
- If your rice cooker has a sauté function, heat the olive oil and sauté diced onion and minced garlic for 3-4 minutes until soft.
- Add the rinsed rice to the cooker along with the broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Stir everything gently.
- Close the lid and set the rice cooker to the white rice setting, allowing it to cook.
- Once cooked, let the rice sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and serve with cilantro and lime wedges.
Notes
Feel free to customize the spice level and add proteins or vegetables to make it a hearty main dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Rice Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg