Mexican Brown Rice Bake

A Mexican Brown Rice Bake sounds like a fantastic and flavorful dish! Here’s a simple recipe you can try:

Mexican Brown Rice Bake Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup brown rice (uncooked)
• 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (red or green)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1 can (4 oz) green chilies (mild or hot, depending on your spice preference)
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or fresh)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican cheese blend)
• 1 cup fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the rice: Start by cooking the brown rice. In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the brown rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes until the rice is cooked and fluffy. If there is excess liquid, drain it.
2. Prepare the veggies: While the rice is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
3. Add the seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), green chilies, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine: Add the cooked brown rice, black beans, and corn to the skillet with the veggies and stir to combine.
5. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the rice mixture into a greased 9×9 baking dish. Top with shredded cheese.
6. Bake and melt: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Serve with a side of sour cream, avocado, or a simple salad for a complete meal!

This bake is hearty, packed with flavor, and perfect for a cozy dinner. Enjoy! Let me know how it turns out!