There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Vegetarian Mexican Fried Brown Rice. It’s a dish that’s packed with bold flavors, vibrant colors, and wholesome ingredients—all while being easy to make! Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, a healthy side dish, or a meal-prep-friendly recipe, this Mexican-inspired brown rice will become one of your go-to favorites.
With spices like cumin and chili powder, the smoky heat of pickled jalapeños, and the richness of enchilada sauce, every bite is bursting with flavor. Plus, this dish is completely vegetarian, gluten-free, and loaded with fiber and nutrients from brown rice and fresh veggies. Let’s dive into this simple, satisfying recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Vegetarian Mexican Fried Brown Rice
✔️ Rich in Flavor – The combination of spices, enchilada sauce, and sautéed vegetables makes this dish irresistible.
✔️ Nutritious and Filling – Brown rice, vegetables, and fiber-rich ingredients make this a balanced meal.
✔️ Great for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
✔️ Quick and Easy – Simple steps and minimal prep time make this dish a breeze.
✔️ Customizable – Add beans, tofu, or extra veggies to make it your own.
Ingredients for Vegetarian Mexican Fried Brown Rice
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Mexican-style fried rice:
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Short grain brown rice | 1 cup |
| Vegetable stock | 1 ½ cups + 2 tablespoons |
| Enchilada sauce | ½ cup |
| Cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Ground black pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Onion, small dice | 1 |
| Red bell pepper, small dice | 1 |
| Frozen corn | 1 cup |
| Pickled jalapeños, roughly chopped | 3 tablespoons |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 3 |
| Green onions, thinly sliced (optional) | 3 |
Optional Additions for Extra Flavor
- Black beans – Adds extra protein and fiber.
- Avocado slices – A creamy, cooling contrast.
- Crumbled queso fresco – A mild, tangy cheese that pairs well.
- Squeeze of lime juice – Brightens up the flavors.
How to Make Vegetarian Mexican Fried Brown Rice
Step 1: Cook the Brown Rice
- In a medium saucepan, combine short grain brown rice and 1 ½ cups vegetable stock.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes or until tender.
- Once cooked, fluff with a fork and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix together enchilada sauce, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Set aside for later.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and red bell pepper and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.
Step 4: Add the Corn and Jalapeños
- Add frozen corn and chopped pickled jalapeños to the skillet.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is heated through.
Step 5: Combine Rice and Vegetables
- Add the cooked brown rice to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Pour the prepared enchilada sauce mixture over the rice and stir well.
- Mix thoroughly to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated.
Step 6: Final Touches
- Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of vegetable stock to the skillet to deglaze the pan and moisten the rice.
- Stir in sliced green onions if using.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until everything is heated through.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer to a serving dish.
- Garnish with extra green onions or chopped fresh cilantro.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Health Benefits of This Mexican Fried Brown Rice
This flavor-packed rice dish is more than just delicious—it’s loaded with nutrients to fuel your body.
🌾 Brown Rice
- Rich in fiber – Supports digestion and gut health.
- Packed with B vitamins – Helps with energy production.
- Lower glycemic index – Helps regulate blood sugar levels.
🌶️ Pickled Jalapeños
- Adds heat and spice – Without overpowering the dish.
- Rich in capsaicin – Can boost metabolism.
🍅 Enchilada Sauce
- Loaded with tomatoes and spices – Provides antioxidants.
- Adds a smoky, tangy depth of flavor.
🫑 Bell Peppers & Onions
- High in Vitamin C – Supports immune function.
- Rich in antioxidants – Helps reduce inflammation.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Refrigerator:
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Freezer:
- Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~220 |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Fiber | 5g |
(Values may vary based on ingredients used.)
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Mexican Fried Brown Rice
🔹 With Black Beans – Adds plant-based protein and makes it more filling.
🔹 Alongside Grilled Vegetables – Complements roasted zucchini, mushrooms, or squash.
🔹 Stuffed in Burritos – Perfect for meal-prep burritos with avocado and salsa.
🔹 As a Taco Filling – Great inside soft or hard taco shells.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?
Yes! White rice will cook faster, but brown rice is more nutrient-dense and has a better texture.
2. What can I use instead of enchilada sauce?
Try salsa, tomato sauce with taco seasoning, or adobo sauce for a different twist.
3. Can I make this dish oil-free?
Yes! Use vegetable broth instead of olive oil when sautéing the vegetables.
4. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add extra jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes.
5. Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Black beans, pinto beans, tofu, or even tempeh work well.
6. Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes! It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.
Final Thoughts: A Delicious and Nutritious Mexican-Inspired Dish
This Vegetarian Mexican Fried Brown Rice is bold, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Whether you serve it as a main dish, a side, or a meal-prep staple, it’s sure to satisfy!
Next time you’re craving a healthy and hearty meal with Mexican flavors, try this recipe—it’s quick, easy, and absolutely delicious!
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Vegetarian Mexican Fried Brown Rice: A Flavorful and Nutritious Dish
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Vegetarian Mexican Fried Brown Rice is a bold, flavor-packed dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying. With wholesome brown rice, colorful vegetables, and a smoky enchilada sauce, this recipe delivers rich Mexican flavors in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a healthy meal-prep option, or a delicious side dish, this easy-to-make recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 cup short grain brown rice
- 1 ½ cups vegetable stock, plus 2 tablespoons
- ½ cup enchilada sauce
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, small dice
- 1 red bell pepper, small dice
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 3 tablespoons pickled jalapeños, roughly chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Brown Rice
- In a medium saucepan, combine short grain brown rice and 1 ½ cups vegetable stock.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix together the enchilada sauce, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and red bell pepper and sauté for 5 minutes until they start to soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.
Step 4: Add the Corn and Jalapeños
- Stir in the frozen corn and chopped pickled jalapeños.
- Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the corn is heated through.
Step 5: Combine the Rice and Vegetables
- Add the cooked brown rice to the skillet.
- Pour the prepared enchilada sauce mixture over the rice and vegetables.
- Stir well to coat everything evenly.
Step 6: Final Touches
- Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of vegetable stock to deglaze the pan and prevent sticking.
- Stir in the thinly sliced green onions (if using).
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the dish is heated through.
Step 7: Serve
- Transfer the Mexican fried brown rice to a serving dish.
- Garnish with extra green onions or fresh cilantro if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Rice Texture Tip: Brown rice can be firm; for softer rice, add an extra ¼ cup of stock while cooking.
- Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the jalapeños and chili powder for more or less heat.
- Protein Additions: Add black beans, tofu, or tempeh for extra protein.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired