Southwest Rice Recipe for Family Meals

Introduction

Discover a delightful and easy-to-make dish that will satisfy your taste buds and leave your kitchen smelling heavenly. This recipe combines the flavors of sautéed vegetables, warm spices, and tender rice, all brought together with chicken broth and hearty tomatoes. Perfect as a side or a main dish, it’s an excellent choice for family dinners or meal prep!

Detailed Ingredients with measures

2 tablespoons butter
1 cup long grain white rice
1/2 cup diced onion
1/2 cup corn kernels
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon chili powder
2 cups chicken broth
1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chiles (e.g., Rotel), undrained

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

Enjoy this flavorful rice dish that is not only simple to prepare but also packed with nutrition and taste!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Melt the Butter

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Ensure that the butter is fully melted and begins to bubble slightly.

Step 2: Sauté the Mixture

Add 1 cup of long grain white rice, 1/2 cup of diced onion, and 1/2 cup of corn kernels to the skillet. Sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon of cumin, and 1/4 teaspoon of chili powder. Sauté the mixture for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is lightly toasted.

Step 3: Combine with Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and the undrained can of diced tomatoes with green chiles. Stir the ingredients together until well combined.

Step 4: Boil and Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 5: Rest the Dish

Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Fluff and Serve

After resting, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. Serve the dish warm.

Notes

Note 1: Choosing Rice

Long grain white rice is recommended for this recipe, as it cooks evenly and absorbs flavors well.

Note 2: Flavor Adjustments

Feel free to adjust the seasonings, such as adding more chili powder for heat or extra vegetables for enhanced nutrition.

Note 3: Variations

To add more protein, consider including cooked chicken, beans, or ground turkey.

Note 4: Storage

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Southwest Rice Recipe for Family Meals
Southwest Rice Recipe for Family Meals

Cook techniques

Melt Butter

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat to create a flavorful base for the dish.

Sauté Ingredients

Add the rice, diced onion, corn, and spices to the skillet. Sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, to lightly toast the rice and enhance the flavors.

Combine Liquid Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth and the undrained diced tomatoes with green chiles to introduce moisture and additional flavor to the dish.

Bring to Boil

Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil, ensuring the ingredients cook evenly.

Simmer

Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid and become tender.

Let Rest

After removing the skillet from heat, let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Fluff Rice

Use a fork to fluff the rice before serving, ensuring a light and airy texture.

FAQ

Can I substitute brown rice for white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid, as brown rice requires more time to cook.

What can I use if I don’t have chicken broth?

You can substitute vegetable broth or water, although it may slightly alter the flavor.

Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! You can add more chili powder or include chopped jalapeños for extra heat.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can include other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or peas for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Conclusion

This delicious and easy rice dish not only blends flavors seamlessly but also provides a satisfying and hearty meal option. With its combination of spices, vegetables, and tomatoes, it makes for a flavorful accompaniment or a delightful main dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable Fried Rice

Incorporate mixed vegetables such as peas, bell peppers, and carrots for a colorful, nutritious twist on fried rice.

Chicken and Rice Casserole

Add cooked chicken and some shredded cheese to the rice mixture before baking for a comforting casserole.

Mexican-style Rice Bowl

Top this rice dish with avocado, black beans, and a sprinkle of cilantro for a refreshing rice bowl.

Spicy Shrimp Rice

Include sautéed shrimp and additional spices to elevate the flavor and protein in this dish.

Cheesy Tomato Rice

Stir in shredded cheese just before serving for a creamy, cheesy variation that kids will love.

Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers

Use the prepared rice filling to stuff halved bell peppers, then bake for a colorful and healthful meal.

Quinoa Alternative

For a healthier twist, substitute quinoa for rice to create a protein-packed dish with a similar flavor profile.

Southwest Rice Recipe for Family Meals
Southwest Rice Recipe for Family Meals