Oh, let me tell you about my love affair with Easy Instant Pot Mexican Rice! Growing up in a household where dinners were a big deal, each meal would often unfold like a mini fiesta, with laughter, stories, and of course, delicious food. Mexican rice was a staple on the table, its vibrant colors and rich flavors always setting a joyful tone for the evening. Now, fast forward to today—I’ve found a way to whip up this beloved dish in my Instant Pot, and trust me, it’s a game-changer!
This recipe not only saves time, but it also locks in flavors and creates the fluffiest rice you could dream of. Whether you’re pairing it with tacos, enchiladas, or just enjoying it with a sprinkle of fresh lime juice, it’s hard to go wrong with this dish. So, let’s dive right in and get this fiesta started!
What’s in Easy Instant Pot Mexican Rice?
Long Grain White Rice: This is the star of our dish. I prefer using long grain for its fluffy texture, but you can also use basmati if you’re feeling adventurous!
Vegetable Broth: This adds tremendous flavor and depth—way better than just plain water. If you’re vegan, check that your broth is plant-based.
Diced Tomatoes: I use canned diced tomatoes for convenience, but fresh tomatoes are delightful too. They add brightness and a touch of sweetness to the rice.
Onion: A must-have for that aromatic base. I usually go for yellow or white onion, finely chopped.
Garlic: One or two cloves, minced, to give a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
Bell Pepper: I love the crunch and color that diced bell peppers provide. You can use red, green, or yellow according to your preference!
Spices: Cumin and chili powder are essential for that authentic Mexican flavor. I like my rice a little spicy, so feel free to tweak the amounts!
Is Easy Instant Pot Mexican Rice Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish is a great source of carbohydrates, which are essential for energy. Plus, the addition of vegetables like onion and bell pepper gives you a nice dose of vitamins.
Long Grain White Rice: It’s a gluten-free grain and easy on the stomach, making it a good option for a variety of diets.
Diced Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, they also contribute to your daily intake of vegetables.
Onions and Bell Peppers: These veggies boost the flavor but also add fiber and essential nutrients.
However, if you’re conscious about sodium, be mindful of the salt content in the broth and canned tomatoes. You can always go low-sodium on those!
Ingredients
– 1 cup of long grain white rice
– 1 cup of vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes, undrained
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, diced (any color you like!)
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon of chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Makes about 4 servings.
How to Make Easy Instant Pot Mexican Rice?
1. First, rinse the long grain white rice under cold water in a fine mesh strainer. This helps release excess starch for fluffier rice.
2. Turn your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” mode and add a splash of oil. Once hot, toss in the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
3. Add the minced garlic and stir for another minute. Oh, this is where your kitchen will start smelling divine!
4. Sprinkle in the cumin and chili powder. Let it cook for about 30 seconds to enhance those spices.
5. Now, add the rinsed rice, diced tomatoes (with juices), and vegetable broth. Give everything a gentle stir to combine.
6. Close the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the steam release valve is set to “Sealing.” Select the “Rice” or “Manual” button and set the timer for 3 minutes.
7. Once the cooking time is completed, allow for a natural release for about 10 minutes. Then carefully switch to quick release to let out any remaining steam.
8. Fluff the rice with a fork, and season with salt and pepper as desired. You can also squeeze some lime juice over for an extra zing!
Fiesta Flavors and Lovely Variations
– **Customization:** Feel free to toss in some black beans or corn for extra texture and nutrition.
– **Protein Boost:** For a heartier side dish, consider adding shredded chicken or cooked ground turkey during the cooking process.
– **Serving Ideas:** Pair this Mexican rice with your favorite protein, or serve it as a base for burrito bowls, topped with avocado and salsa.
I genuinely hope you give this Easy Instant Pot Mexican Rice a try in your own kitchen! It’s such a comforting dish, and I think it will quickly become a go-to recipe in your home, just like it is in mine. If you do make it, don’t forget to share your experience! I would love to hear how it turned out or any fun twists you added along the way. Happy cooking!
