Fiesta Rice Recipe: A Flavorful Side Dish for Any Occasion

Discover the delightful taste and vibrant colors of this fiesta rice recipe, a perfect side dish for any occasion. With a combination of well-seasoned vegetables, fragrant jasmine rice, and a hint of spice, this dish is bound to become a favorite at your dinner table. Simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, this recipe brings the taste of a fiesta right into your kitchen.

I first stumbled upon this festive rice recipe during a family reunion. My cousin, known for her culinary prowess, shared this mouthwatering dish, and it quickly became a hit. I remember how everyone raved about its colorful presentation and delectable taste, urging us to get the recipe before the night was over. Now, it has become a cherished addition to my family’s meals, reminding me of those joyful gatherings every time I prepare it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe’s straightforward instructions make it accessible to even beginner cooks.
• Vibrant and Colorful: Packed with colorful vegetables, it adds a pop of color to any meal.
• Versatile: Pair this dish with grilled chicken, shrimp, or your favorite protein to create a complete meal.
• Customizable Spiciness: You have control over the spice level, making it family-friendly or fiery for spice lovers.

Ingredients Notes

Our recipe includes simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Fresh vegetables like bell peppers and corn add sweetness, while the addition of jalapeños can spice it up according to your taste. Feel free to use any type of rice you prefer, but jasmine rice is recommended for its aromatic quality.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Begin by rinsing one cup of jasmine rice under cold water. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add one diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.

Step 3

Add diced bell peppers and one jalapeño to the onion. Stir well and sauté for another three minutes, ensuring that the flavors are well blended.

Step 4

Stir in the rinsed rice, followed by two cups of chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5

Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in a cup of canned or fresh corn and freshly chopped cilantro before serving warm.

Storage Options

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the rice for up to one month. To reheat, simply microwave on a medium setting or stir-fry in a pan until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth during reheating to maintain moisture.

Variations & Substitutions

For a protein boost, consider adding black beans or cooked chicken into the mix. Vegetarians can switch the chicken broth with vegetable broth. If heat isn’t your thing, omit the jalapeño or replace it with a milder pepper. Add a squeeze of lime for an extra zesty flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but keep in mind that it will take longer to cook. You’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount according to the package instructions for best results.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Fiesta rice is great for meal prep as it stores well and can be paired with a variety of proteins, making it versatile for weekday lunches or dinners. Just ensure you store it correctly to maintain freshness.

How can I add more flavor to the rice?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika. Additionally, sautéing garlic with the onions adds a deeper aromatic note, while topping with crumbled feta or grated cheddar can provide a creamy contrast.

Fiesta Rice Recipe: A Flavorful Side Dish for Any Occasion

This Fiesta Rice is a vibrant and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with any main course, adding a touch of color and zest to your meal.

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Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes minutes

Servings: 6

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 2 cups long-grain white rice
• ▢ 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ▢ 1 medium onion, chopped
• ▢ 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ▢ 3 cups chicken broth Can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version
• ▢ 1 cup diced tomatoes with juice
• ▢ 1 cup frozen peas
• ▢ 1 teaspoon cumin
• ▢ 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ▢ 1 to taste salt and pepper

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until onion is translucent.
• Add rice to the skillet and stir to coat the grains with oil.
• Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes with juice, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed, about 20 minutes.
• Stir in frozen peas and cook until heated through, about 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Notes

For added flavor, consider topping with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice before serving.