Instant Pot Mexican Rice - Quick and Flavorful Recipe

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Instant Pot Mexican Rice is a flavorful and easy-to-make rice dish that is perfect for any meal. The dish typically includes ingredients like rice, tomato sauce, onion, chili, and spices like cumin, garlic powder, and chili powder to give it a Mexican-inspired flavor.

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One of the benefits of making Instant Pot Mexican rice is that it’s a one-pot meal that can be prepared quickly, making it a great option for busy weeknights. The Instant Pot pressure cooker allows the rice to cook quickly and evenly, resulting in perfectly cooked rice every time.

Instant Pot Mexican rice can be served as a side dish or used as a base for other Mexican-inspired dishes like burrito bowls or enchiladas.

You can also try our other delicious Mexican recipes.

Chili Con Carne with Beans
Spinach Manicotti

Table of Contents

About Mexican Rice Recipe :

For the Instant Pot Mexican Rice recipe, you’ll need an Instant Pot or other electric pressure cooker, along with the ingredients listed in the recipe. You’ll start by sauteing onions, bell pepper, and garlic in the Instant Pot, then toasting the rice before adding water or chicken broth, tomato sauce, and spices.

You will then pressure cook the rice for a few minutes before allowing the pressure to release naturally. Once the rice is cooked, you will fluff it with a fork and stir in fresh coriander before serving.

Here we will give a detailed and easy recipe for Instant Pot Mexican rice.

INGREDIENTS :

2 cup Rice
2 cup water
1 tbsp Vegetable Oil
1/2 tsp Salt
1/2 tsp ground Cumin
1/2 tsp Garlic powder
1/2 tsp Onion powder
1/4 tsp Chili powder
1/4 tsp Paprika
1/4 cup Tomato sauce
1/4 cup diced Onion
1/4 cup diced Chili
1 tbsp minced Garlic
Chopped fresh Coriander

How to make Instant Pot Mexican Rice?

Firstly, rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear.

After that, turn on the Instant Pot and select the “saute” function. Once hot, add 1 tbsp Vegetable Oil, 1/4 cup diced Onion, 1/4 cup diced Chili, and 1 tbsp minced Garlic.

Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently until the vegetables are softened.

Then add the rinsed rice to the pot and stir well to combine with the vegetables. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is lightly toasted.

Then add 2 cup water, 1/2 tsp Salt, 1/2 tsp ground Cumin, 1/2 tsp Garlic powder, 1/2 tsp Onion powder, 1/4 tsp Chili powder, 1/4 tsp Paprika and 1/4 cup Tomato sauce to the pot. Stir well to combine.

After that, close the Instant Pot lid and turn the valve to the “sealing” position. Select the “manual” or “pressure cook” function and set the timer for 8 minutes at high pressure.

Once the timer beeps, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully turn the valve to the “venting” position to release any remaining pressure.

Open the lid of the Instant Pot and fluff the rice with a fork.

Instant Pot Mexican Rice is ready. Garnish with chopped Coriander and serve hot.

Tips to make your Instant Pot Mexican Rice even better :

If you prefer spicier rice, you can add more chili powder or a diced jalapeno pepper to the recipe.

You can also add some peas or corn to the rice after it’s cooked for a pop of color and extra nutrition.

Leftover Instant Pot Mexican rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the difference between Spanish Rice and Mexican rice?

Spanish rice and Mexican rice differ in their origin, seasoning, and use of vegetables. Spanish rice originated in Spain and is subtly spiced with Spanish seasonings like paprika and saffron, while Mexican rice originated in Mexico and is more boldly spiced with Mexican seasonings like cumin and chili powder.

Why is my Instant Pot rice not fluffy?

Possible reasons for non-fluffy Instant Pot rice could be adding too much or too little water, not properly rinsing the rice, using the wrong rice type, or overcooking the rice.

Does soaking rice make it fluffier?

Yes, soaking rice before cooking can make it fluffier. Soaking rice in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking can help to soften the outer layer of the rice grains and allow them to absorb water more evenly during cooking. This can result in fluffier and more evenly cooked rice.

Why is Mexican rice not sticky?

Mexican rice is not sticky because it is typically made with long-grain white rice, which has less starch compared to short-grain or medium-grain rice varieties that are stickier. Additionally, sauteing the rice grains with oil creates a barrier that prevents them from sticking together.

Can you cook Mexican rice without a lid?

No, it is not recommended to cook Mexican rice without a lid. Using a lid allows the rice to steam and absorb the liquid, resulting in fully cooked and fluffy rice. Without a lid, the liquid will evaporate too quickly and the rice will not cook properly.

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