Vegetarian Mexican Fried Brown Rice: A Flavorful and Nutritious Dish

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Vegetarian Mexican Fried Brown Rice is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the nutty taste of brown rice with a variety of colorful vegetables and bold spices. This dish is perfect as a main course or a side dish and is packed with nutrients and flavors. The combination of enchilada sauce, cumin, and chili powder gives this rice a delicious Mexican twist. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to create this tasty and healthy fried rice.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup short grain brown rice
  • 1 1/2 cups vegetable stock, plus 2 tablespoons
  • 1/2 cup enchilada sauce
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, small dice
  • 1 red pepper, small dice
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 3 tablespoons pickled jalapeño, roughly chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Brown Rice

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the short grain brown rice and 1 1/2 cups vegetable stock.
  2. 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.
  3. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, mix the enchilada sauce, cumin, chili powder, salt, and ground black pepper.
  2. Set the sauce aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and red pepper, and sauté for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.

Step 4: Add the Corn and Jalapeños

  1. Add the frozen corn and chopped pickled jalapeños to the skillet.
  2. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the corn is heated through.

Step 5: Combine Rice and Vegetables

  1. Add the cooked brown rice to the skillet with the vegetables.
  2. Pour the prepared enchilada sauce mixture over the rice and vegetables.
  3. Stir well to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly coated with the sauce.

Step 6: Final Touches

  1. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of vegetable stock to the skillet to help deglaze the pan and moisten the rice.
  2. Stir in the thinly sliced green onions, if using.
  3. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until everything is heated through and well combined.

Step 7: Serve

  1. Transfer the Vegetarian Mexican Fried Brown Rice to a serving dish.
  2. Garnish with additional green onions or chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
  3. Serve hot and enjoy!

Conclusion

Vegetarian Mexican Fried Brown Rice is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to prepare and packed with bold flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful side dish, this recipe brings together the best of Mexican-inspired ingredients and spices. Enjoy the satisfying taste and wholesome ingredients of this Vegetarian Mexican Fried Brown Rice, and make it a regular part of your meal rotation.