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A bowl of vibrant Mexican brown rice garnished with slices of lime, jalapeño pepper, and fresh cilantro. The rice appears fluffy and seasoned, creating a colorful and appetizing presentation.
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Mexican Brown Rice

Nutty brown rice simmered with jalapeños and smoky spices in seasoned broth. A hearty, flavorful side dish that's mostly hands-off. More flavorful than restaurant versions and perfect for meal prep.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time55 minutes
Resting Time10 minutes
Total Time1 hour 20 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: gluten free
Servings: 6 people
Author: Marissa Stevens

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 1/2 cups long grain brown rice rinsed well and drained
  • 1/2 small white onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 jalapeño minced (stems, ribs, and seeds removed - gloves recommended!), optional (recipe note #2)
  • 2 3/4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth or water, (recipe note #1)
  • 8 ounces tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon chipotle chili powder or more for extra heat
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt plus more to taste
  • fresh cilantro for garnish
  • lime wedges for serving, optional

Instructions

  • Heat olive oil and butter in a 2-quart saucepan over medium heat until sizzling. Add brown rice; cook and stir until rice is lightly toasted, 3 to 5 minutes. Add onion; cook and stir until onion is translucent, about 2 minutes more. Add garlic and jalapeño; cook and stir 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
  • Add broth, tomato sauce, cumin, chili powder and salt; stir well to combine and bring to boil. Reduce heat to low and cover; simmer 45 minutes or until rice is tender and has absorbed liquid. Remove from heat and let stand, still covered, 10 minutes. Fluff with fork and transfer to serving bowl; garnish with cilantro and serve with lime wedges if desired.

Notes

  1. To make a moister version of this rice, increase broth by 2 tablespoons and up to 1/4 cup.
  2. Jalapeño adds depth of flavor and some heat, feel free to reduce the amount or omit altogether for milder rice.

Nutrition

Calories: 230kcal | Carbohydrates: 39g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 7mg | Sodium: 987mg | Potassium: 263mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 275IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 28mg | Iron: 1mg

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