Easy One Pot Mexican Rice is a simple, delicious dish that you can prepare in just one pot. This recipe is perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a quick and healthy meal. It combines vibrant flavors and colorful vegetables, making it both nutritious and appealing. Whether you serve it as a main dish or a side, this Mexican rice is sure to impress.
Why make this recipe
Making Easy One Pot Mexican Rice is a great choice for many reasons. First, it is convenient. Cooking everything in one pot means less cleanup time. This is perfect for those who want a quick meal without the hassle of multiple dishes. Second, the recipe is flexible. You can adapt it based on the ingredients you have at home. It is also packed with nutrients, thanks to the variety of vegetables included. Moreover, it is budget-friendly, using affordable staples like rice and beans. Lastly, it is suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets, making it a versatile option for everyone.
How to make Easy One Pot Mexican Rice
Making Easy One Pot Mexican Rice is straightforward. You only need a few steps to bring everything together in a delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 2-3 small white onions
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1-2 jalapenos, finely chopped
- 3 cups shredded carrots
- 3 cups leeks, chopped
- 1 red pepper
- 1 green pepper
- 1 yellow pepper
- 4 cups brown rice or long-grain white rice
- 6-7 cups low sodium vegetable broth
- 2 cups plain tomato sauce
- 3 cups white beans
- 2 cups corn
- 1/3 cup nutritional yeast (optional)
- Salt and pepper
- Cilantro (for garnish)
- Green onions (for garnish)
- Guacamole (for garnish)
- Hot sauce (for garnish)
Directions:
Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add your chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot. Use a couple of splashes of vegetable broth to help sauté the onions and garlic. Cook for a few minutes until the onions become soft and fragrant.
Next, add the finely chopped jalapenos, shredded carrots, chopped leeks, and peppers (red, green, and yellow) to the pot. Stir everything together and sauté the vegetables for about 3-5 minutes. Add more vegetable broth if needed, ensuring that nothing sticks to the pot.
After the vegetables are lightly cooked, add the rice. Stir it in for a minute to brown it slightly before adding the remaining ingredients. Now, pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth, along with the tomato sauce, white beans, and corn. Mix everything well.
Once all ingredients are combined, cover the pot. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes. While cooking, stir the rice mixture occasionally to prevent it from sticking. If the mixture becomes too thick, feel free to add more vegetable broth towards the end of cooking time.
Once the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid, fluff it gently with a fork. Season with salt and pepper; if you choose to use nutritional yeast, stir it in at this point.
Finally, garnish your Easy One Pot Mexican Rice with fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, a scoop of guacamole, and a drizzle of hot sauce for those who enjoy a little heat. Serve it warm and enjoy!
How to serve Easy One Pot Mexican Rice
You can serve Easy One Pot Mexican Rice in various ways. It is delicious on its own or as a side dish. You can also pair it with a fresh salad or tacos for a more varied meal. If you are hosting guests, serve it in a large bowl and let everyone help themselves. This allows for a fun meal where everyone can customize their servings with toppings like guacamole or hot sauce.
How to store Easy One Pot Mexican Rice
Storing Easy One Pot Mexican Rice is simple. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. If you want to keep it for a longer period, you can freeze it. Place the cooled rice in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. The dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you are ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Tips to make Easy One Pot Mexican Rice
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Easy One Pot Mexican Rice turns out perfectly:
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Use fresh ingredients: Try to use fresh vegetables for better flavor.
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Adjust the spice level: Modify the amount of cayenne pepper and jalapenos based on your spice preference.
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Cooking times vary: Different types of rice may require slightly different cooking times. Always check the package instructions for best results.
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Add more vegetables: Feel free to include any other vegetables you like. Zucchini, spinach, or peas can all enhance the dish.
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Make it a complete meal: You can add cooked chicken, beef, or shrimp for a protein boost if desired.
Variation (if any)
There are many ways to vary this recipe to suit your tastes. For instance, you can swap out the brown rice for quinoa for a different texture and flavor. You can also replace the white beans with black beans or kidney beans. If you prefer a spicier dish, try adding diced tomatoes with green chilies instead of plain tomato sauce. Or, use different types of peppers to change the flavor profile.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can make it ahead of time. Store leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer, as mentioned earlier.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those on a gluten-free diet.
Can I use other types of rice?
Yes, you can use other types of rice such as jasmine or basmati, but cooking times may vary.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat, add more jalapenos or use a hotter pepper like serrano. You can also sprinkle in chili powder.
What can I serve with Easy One Pot Mexican Rice?
This dish pairs wonderfully with salads, guacamole, or grilled vegetables. It’s also great as a side with protein like grilled chicken or fish.
Nutritional Information
A serving of Easy One Pot Mexican Rice contains approximately:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 10g
- Carbs: 64g
- Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sugar: 5g
This dish provides a wholesome, balanced meal option that is easy to make and enjoyable for all!