Looking for a delicious way to spice up your meal? Our Quick Mexican Brown Rice is bursting with fresh flavors of cilantro and lime, making it the perfect vegetarian side dish that’s both healthy and easy to prepare!
Important Things About This Recipe:
This recipe is perfect for those who are looking for a quick and healthy meal option. It’s vegetarian-friendly and can easily be made vegan by substituting any non-vegan ingredients. Additionally, it’s gluten-free, making it accessible for those with dietary restrictions. Also, try this Cilantro Lime with Brown Coconut Rice recipe; you’ll love it! Both are quick, gluten-free, and can be made vegan for a wholesome meal!
Ingredients for Four People:
- 2 cups brown rice
- 4 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, deseeded and chopped
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Directions:
- Rinse the brown rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until softened.
- Add the jalapeño and chili powder, cooking for an additional minute.
- Stir in the rinsed rice and water, or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
- Remove from heat. Stir in the cilantro and lime juice, then season with salt and pepper. Cover and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork, and serve.
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Courses: Side Dish
- Cuisines: Mexican
Nutritional Details:
- Calories: 215 per serving
- Protein: 4 grams
- Fat: 2 grams
- Carbohydrates: 45 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
Tips and Tricks:
- Rinse the Rice: Always rinse brown rice before cooking to remove excess starch, which helps achieve a fluffier texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cilantro and lime juice make a significant difference, enhancing the flavors.
- Adjust Spiciness: Tailor the heat level by adjusting the amount of jalapeños or chili powder according to your preference.
- Rest the Rice: Let the rice sit for a few minutes after cooking before fluffing it with a fork to ensure the grains separate nicely.
- Reheat with a Splash of Water: When reheating, add a little water to help the rice retain moisture and prevent it from drying out.
Benefits of This Recipe:
This quick Mexican brown rice is not only a feast for your taste buds but also offers numerous health benefits. It’s rich in fiber, aids in digestion, and is a great source of antioxidants. Plus, it’s a low-fat option that complements a variety of dishes, making it a versatile addition to your dietary routine.
What to Eat with Pot Roast:
While typically served as a side, this quick Mexican brown rice pairs beautifully with a hearty pot roast, adding a refreshing zest that complements the rich flavors of the meat.
Mexican Brown Rice
Ingredients
- 2 cups brown rice
- 4 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, deseeded and chopped
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Warm up your cooked rice and set it aside for later.
- In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, toss in the onions, tomatoes, and jalapeno, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute, stirring as you go.
- Mix in the tomato paste, cumin, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper, making sure the vegetables are well-coated with the seasoning.
- Add the cooked rice to the skillet, stirring for about a minute until it’s warmed through.
- Serve the rice with fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side for extra flavor. Enjoy!
Notes
- Customization: Feel free to add beans or corn to the rice for extra protein and texture.
- Storage: This rice can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and is perfect for meal prep.
- Serving Suggestion: Enhance this dish by serving it with avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream to add creaminess.
- Lime Tip: Roll the lime under your palm before juicing to maximize the amount of juice you extract.
- Herb Alternatives: If cilantro isn’t to your taste, try parsley or basil for a different flavor profile.
