Mexican Brown Rice

 

Mexican Brown Rice is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional Mexican rice. It’s typically made with brown rice instead of white rice, giving it a nuttier flavor and more fiber. Here’s a simple recipe to make it:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup brown rice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium tomato, diced (or 1/2 cup canned diced tomatoes)
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional for a little heat)
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Lime wedges (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice: Rinse the brown rice under cold water to remove excess starch. Drain well.

2. Cook the onion and garlic: In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Add the rice: Stir in the rinsed rice and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice starts to lightly toast and turns golden brown.

4. Add tomatoes and spices: Add the diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder (if using), paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together.

5. Add the broth: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let the rice simmer for about 40-45 minutes (or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed).

6. Fluff and serve: Once the rice is done, remove from heat, and let it sit covered for about 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, then garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side if desired.

This Mexican Brown Rice pairs well with tacos, grilled meats, or as a side dish to complement any Mexican meal. Enjoy!