Mexican brown rice is a flavorful and healthy twist on the classic Mexican rice, using brown rice for a nuttier, heartier texture. It’s seasoned with aromatic spices and tomatoes, giving it that signature Mexican flavor. Here’s a simple recipe for you to try!
Mexican Brown Rice
Ingredients:
- 1 cup brown rice (short or long grain)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or 2 medium fresh tomatoes, chopped)
- 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra smoky flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving, optional)
Instructions:
- Rinse the Rice: Rinse the brown rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and ensures a fluffier texture when cooked.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a medium-sized saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Add the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using) to the pan. Stir for about 30 seconds, letting the spices become fragrant.
- Add the Rice: Add the rinsed brown rice to the saucepan and stir to coat the rice with the oil, onions, garlic, and spices. Let the rice toast lightly for 1-2 minutes.
- Add Liquids and Tomatoes: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken broth, and water. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer.
- Simmer the Rice: Once the liquid starts to simmer, reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Let the rice cook for about 40-45 minutes (depending on your rice’s cooking time), until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender. If the rice isn’t quite done but the liquid is absorbed, you can add a little more water and continue to cook until the rice is fully tender.
- Fluff and Garnish: Once the rice is cooked, remove the pan from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice with a fork. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for a burst of freshness.
This Mexican brown rice pairs perfectly with dishes like tacos, burritos, grilled meats, or as a side to your favorite Mexican-inspired meal. It’s healthy, flavorful, and so easy to make!
Let me know if you want to add any extra ingredients or tweak it a bit!
