Name: Instant Pot Mexican Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups long grain white rice (providing a fluffy texture); 1/4 cup oil ((vegetable or canola)); 1 teaspoon garlic (minced); 1/4 medium onion (finely diced); 1/4 cup tomato sauce (or 2 pureed tomatoes); 2 tomato bouillon cubes (finely chopped); 2 teaspoons granulated tomato; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 carrot (diced); 1 1/2 cups water (the cooking liquid for the rice); 1/3 cup frozen peas (for a pop of color and nutrition)

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s bursting with flavor and pairs perfectly with any Mexican meal, look no further than this Instant Pot Mexican Rice. This recipe is not only simple and quick, but it’s also incredibly delicious, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. With the help of your Instant Pot, you’ll have fluffy, vibrant rice that’s infused with the rich flavors of tomatoes, garlic, and spices. Let’s dive in!

Why This Recipe Works

The beauty of this Instant Pot Mexican Rice lies in its ability to combine simple ingredients into a dish that’s packed with flavor. The Instant Pot makes the cooking process incredibly efficient, locking in moisture and allowing the rice to absorb all the delicious flavors from the spices and broth. Plus, the addition of vegetables like carrots and peas not only adds color but also boosts the nutritional profile of the dish. It’s a one-pot wonder that satisfies and delights!

What You’ll Gather

1 1/2 cups long grain white rice – The base of our dish, providing a fluffy texture.
1/4 cup oil (vegetable or canola) – For sautéing and adding richness.
1 teaspoon garlic, minced – Adds a fragrant, savory punch.
1/4 medium onion, finely diced – Sweetness and depth of flavor.
1/4 cup tomato sauce, or 2 pureed tomatoes – For that vibrant color and taste.
2 tomato bouillon cubes, finely chopped, or 2 teaspoons granulated – Enhances the tomato flavor.
1/4 teaspoon salt – To balance the flavors.
1 carrot, diced – Adds sweetness and texture.
1 1/2 cups water – The cooking liquid for the rice.
1/3 cup frozen peas – For a pop of color and nutrition.

Tools of the Trade

Instant Pot – The star of the show for quick cooking.
Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient measurements.
Cutting board and knife – Essential for prepping your vegetables.
Wooden spoon – Ideal for stirring without scratching your Instant Pot.

Cooking Instant Pot Mexican Rice: The Process

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by turning your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add the oil and let it heat up for a minute. Once hot, add the minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Step 2: Incorporate the Vegetables

Next, add the diced carrot to the pot and sauté for an additional 2 minutes. This will help soften the carrot and release its natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of your Instant Pot Mexican Rice.

Step 3: Add the Rice and Tomato Ingredients

Stir in the long grain white rice, making sure to coat each grain with the aromatic mixture. This step is crucial for adding flavor to the rice. Then, add the tomato sauce (or pureed tomatoes), chopped tomato bouillon cubes, and salt. Mix everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Pour in Water and Peas

Pour in the water and stir to combine. Finally, add the frozen peas, which will cook perfectly in the steam created during the pressure cooking process.

Step 5: Cook the Rice

Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set it to manual high pressure for 5 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before performing a quick release to let out any remaining steam.

Step 6: Fluff and Serve

Carefully remove the lid and use a fork to fluff the rice gently. This will separate the grains and incorporate all the delicious ingredients. Your Instant Pot Mexican Rice is now ready to serve!

Year-Round Variations

Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Corn Addition: Stir in a cup of frozen corn along with the peas for a sweet crunch.
Herbed Rice: Toss in some fresh cilantro or parsley just before serving for a fresh herbal flavor.
Cheesy Rice: Mix in some grated cheese right after cooking for a creamy, cheesy twist.

Method to the Madness

The process of making Instant Pot Mexican Rice is straightforward, allowing even novice cooks to achieve delicious results. The key is in the sautéing phase, which builds the foundational flavors of the dish. Cooking the rice under pressure ensures that it absorbs all the flavors from the seasoning and vegetables, resulting in a well-rounded and aromatic side dish. Plus, using the Instant Pot significantly cuts down on cooking time compared to traditional methods, making it perfect for busy weeknights!

Save It for Later

Instant Pot Mexican Rice is incredibly versatile and can be stored for later use. To keep the rice fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can easily reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to bring back its moisture. Alternatively, this rice can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. It’s a great way to meal prep for the week ahead!

Your Top Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice typically requires a longer cooking time, around 22-25 minutes under high pressure, with a natural release of about 10-15 minutes.

Is it necessary to rinse the rice before cooking?

Rinsing the rice helps remove excess starch, which can make it gummy. While it’s not mandatory, doing so can result in fluffier rice. Rinse under cold water until the water runs clear.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe is vegetarian as it stands, but ensure that the tomato bouillon cubes or granules you use are vegetarian-friendly to keep the dish meat-free.

What can I serve with this rice?

Instant Pot Mexican Rice is a fantastic side dish for tacos, burritos, enchiladas, or grilled meats. It also pairs well with beans or can be served as a base for a hearty salad.

In Closing

This Instant Pot Mexican Rice is not just a simple side dish; it’s a flavorful addition that can elevate any meal. With its ease of preparation and the delicious explosion of flavors, you’ll find yourself making this dish again and again. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a quiet night in, this rice recipe is a surefire way to impress. So grab your Instant Pot, gather your ingredients, and let the cooking magic begin! Enjoy your culinary adventure!