Name: Easy Instant Pot Mexican Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 26 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 small onion, diced (or 1/2 tablespoon onion powder); 2 cups long grain white rice; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 3 cups vegetable or chicken stock; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon black pepper; Cilantro & diced tomato (for garnish)

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Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a flavorful side dish that takes just minutes to prepare? Look no further than this Easy Instant Pot Mexican Rice Recipe. Bursting with vibrant flavors, this dish pairs perfectly with your favorite Mexican entrees or can stand alone as a delightful vegetarian option. The Instant Pot makes it incredibly simple to achieve perfectly cooked rice every time, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal. Let’s dive into why this recipe should become a staple in your cooking rotation.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

This Easy Instant Pot Mexican Rice Recipe is not just another side dish; it’s a culinary experience that brings a taste of Mexico right to your dinner table. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Quick & Easy: With the Instant Pot, dinner is ready in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful: The combination of garlic, cumin, and tomato creates a delicious flavor profile that enhances any meal.
Versatile: This rice can be served with tacos, enchiladas, or even as a base for a burrito bowl.
Healthy: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this dish is a nutritious addition to your diet.

What You’ll Need

To make this Easy Instant Pot Mexican Rice Recipe, gather the following ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 small onion, diced (or 1/2 tablespoon onion powder)
2 cups long grain white rice
2 tablespoons tomato paste
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups vegetable or chicken stock
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon black pepper
Cilantro & diced tomato for garnish

Appliances & Accessories

Before getting started, make sure you have the following:

Instant Pot: This is the star of the show, allowing for quick cooking and easy cleanup.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for measuring your ingredients accurately.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Useful for sautéing and mixing ingredients.
Cutting board and knife: For chopping your onion and garlic.

Directions: Easy Instant Pot Mexican Rice Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by turning your Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ mode. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and let it heat for about a minute. Once hot, add the diced onion (or onion powder if using) and sauté until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Rice and Tomato Paste

Next, add the 2 cups of long grain white rice to the pot, stirring to coat the rice in the oil and aromatics. Then, add the 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, mixing well to combine all the flavors.

Step 3: Pour in the Stock and Seasonings

Now it’s time to add the liquids. Pour in 3 cups of vegetable or chicken stock, ensuring that the rice is fully submerged. Add 2 teaspoons of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 4: Cook Under Pressure

Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set it to ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ for 6 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.

Step 5: Fluff and Serve

Carefully open the lid and use a fork to fluff the rice. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and diced tomatoes for a pop of color and flavor.

Fresh Seasonal Changes

This Easy Instant Pot Mexican Rice Recipe can be adapted to suit the season or your personal taste. Consider the following variations:

Spring: Add fresh peas or asparagus for a pop of color and texture.
Summer: Incorporate roasted corn or bell peppers for a sweet crunch.
Fall: Mix in some chopped pumpkin or butternut squash for a hearty twist.
Winter: Add black beans for extra protein and fiber, making it a filling meal.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

While this Easy Instant Pot Mexican Rice Recipe is straightforward, here are a few common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

Burning: If you notice the rice burning, ensure you sauté the onion and garlic on low heat and deglaze the pot with stock before adding the rice.
Sticky Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch, which can lead to clumping.
Undercooked Rice: Make sure to follow the recommended cooking times and allow for natural pressure release.

Storing Tips & Timelines

This Easy Instant Pot Mexican Rice Recipe can be made ahead of time and stored for later. Follow these tips:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Add a splash of water when reheating to restore moisture, and microwave or heat on the stovetop until warmed through.

Keep Cooking

If you loved this Easy Instant Pot Mexican Rice Recipe, here are some more delicious recipes to try:

Time to Try It

Now that you have the complete guide to making this Easy Instant Pot Mexican Rice Recipe, it’s time to put on your apron and get cooking! Enjoy the rich flavors and the beautiful presentation of this dish, guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!

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