Instant Pot Mexican Rice Recipe

It’s funny how some of the simplest dishes become family staples. For us, this Instant Pot Mexican Rice recipe is exactly that. Honestly, I stumbled upon it on a busy weeknight when I needed something quick and flavorful to go with our tacos. Little did I know it would become a regular request! Even my pickiest eater, who usually shies away from anything remotely “spicy,” devours this rice. The Instant Pot makes it unbelievably easy – it’s practically hands-off cooking. The rice comes out perfectly fluffy every single time, bursting with that classic Mexican flavor we all crave. It’s now our go-to side for fajitas, enchiladas, burrito bowls, or honestly, just on its own with a dollop of sour cream and some salsa. If you’re looking for a foolproof, family-friendly side dish that’s packed with flavor and incredibly easy to make, you absolutely have to try this Instant Pot Mexican Rice. Trust me, you’ll be making it again and again!

Ingredients

To create this flavorful and vibrant Instant Pot Mexican Rice, you’ll need a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the depth of flavor and achieving that perfect fluffy texture we all crave. Let’s break down each ingredient and explore why it’s essential for this recipe.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Olive oil serves as the foundation for sautéing our aromatics and toasting the rice. Using olive oil adds a subtle richness and healthy fat to the dish. You can also use other neutral oils like avocado oil or vegetable oil if you prefer, but olive oil imparts a slightly more nuanced flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully. The oil also helps to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the Instant Pot during the sautéing process.
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced: Onion is a fundamental aromatic in Mexican cuisine and forms the flavor base for our rice. Yellow onions are preferred for their mild, slightly sweet flavor that becomes even sweeter and more mellow as they sauté. Finely dicing the onion ensures it cooks down evenly and releases its flavor throughout the rice without becoming overly chunky. The sautéed onion adds a savory depth that is essential to the overall taste of the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is another powerhouse aromatic that elevates the flavor profile of this Mexican rice. Freshly minced garlic provides a pungent and slightly spicy note that complements the sweetness of the onion and the other spices. Two cloves are typically sufficient, but if you are a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove for a more pronounced garlic flavor. Mincing the garlic ensures it distributes evenly and infuses its flavor throughout the rice.
• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice, rinsed: The type of rice you use is crucial for achieving the desired texture in this Instant Pot recipe. Long-grain white rice, such as Basmati or Jasmine, is recommended because it cooks up fluffy and separate, rather than mushy. Rinsing the rice is a vital step often overlooked. Rinsing removes excess starch from the surface of the rice grains. This excess starch, if not removed, can lead to sticky or gummy rice. Rinsing until the water runs clear ensures that your rice will be perfectly fluffy and not clump together. While you can use other types of rice, like medium-grain or brown rice, cooking times and liquid ratios will need to be adjusted. For this recipe, long-grain white rice provides the best results.
• 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option): The liquid component is essential for cooking the rice in the Instant Pot. Chicken broth adds a savory depth of flavor that complements the Mexican spices beautifully. Using broth instead of water significantly enhances the overall taste of the rice, making it richer and more flavorful. For a vegetarian or vegan option, vegetable broth works perfectly as a substitute and still provides a delicious savory base. The ratio of liquid to rice is crucial for Instant Pot cooking. Too little liquid, and the rice will be undercooked and dry; too much liquid, and it will be mushy. This recipe uses a 1:1.33 ratio of rice to broth, which is ideal for long-grain white rice in the Instant Pot.
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Diced tomatoes are a key ingredient in Mexican rice, providing both flavor and moisture. Undrained diced tomatoes add not only the tomato flavor but also the liquid from the can, which contributes to the overall liquid content needed for cooking the rice in the Instant Pot. The acidity of the tomatoes balances the richness of the broth and other ingredients. Using undrained tomatoes ensures that you get the full flavor and moisture from the tomatoes, resulting in a more flavorful and moist rice dish. You can use regular diced tomatoes or fire-roasted diced tomatoes for a slightly smoky flavor variation.
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Tomato paste is a concentrated form of tomato flavor that adds depth and richness to the rice. A tablespoon of tomato paste intensifies the tomato flavor and contributes to the vibrant color of the dish. It also helps to thicken the sauce slightly, creating a more cohesive and flavorful rice. Tomato paste is a pantry staple that adds a significant flavor boost to many dishes, and it is particularly important in this Mexican rice recipe for achieving that authentic taste.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: Chili powder is the primary spice that provides the quintessential Mexican flavor to this rice. It typically contains a blend of dried chili peppers, cumin, oregano, garlic powder, and other spices. Chili powder adds warmth, a mild heat, and a complex savory flavor that is characteristic of Mexican cuisine. You can adjust the amount of chili powder to your preference. For a milder flavor, use slightly less; for more heat, add a bit more. It’s important to use chili powder specifically, and not cayenne pepper, which is much hotter.
• 1 teaspoon cumin: Cumin is another essential spice in Mexican cooking. It adds a warm, earthy, and slightly smoky flavor that complements the chili powder and other spices. Cumin is often used in combination with chili powder to create that characteristic Mexican spice blend. It enhances the savory notes of the rice and adds depth to the overall flavor profile. Ground cumin is readily available and easy to use in this recipe.
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Dried oregano is a fragrant herb that adds a slightly peppery and earthy note to the rice. It’s a classic herb used in Mexican cuisine and provides a distinct flavor that complements the other spices. Dried oregano is more potent than fresh oregano, so a small amount goes a long way. It adds a subtle herbaceousness that rounds out the flavor profile of the rice.
• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste: Salt is crucial for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients in the rice. It balances the acidity of the tomatoes and the spiciness of the chili powder and cumin. Start with ½ teaspoon and adjust to taste after cooking. Different broths and canned tomatoes can have varying levels of salt, so tasting and adjusting is important to achieve the perfect level of seasoning.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Black pepper adds a subtle warmth and enhances the overall flavor of the rice. It complements the other spices and seasonings, adding a touch of complexity. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for its more vibrant flavor, but pre-ground black pepper works well too. A small amount of black pepper is sufficient to enhance the flavors without overpowering the other ingredients.
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional): Fresh cilantro is a bright and refreshing garnish that adds a pop of color and a fresh, citrusy flavor to the finished dish. It’s a classic garnish for Mexican rice and complements the savory and slightly spicy flavors perfectly. While optional, cilantro is highly recommended for adding a final touch of freshness and visual appeal to the dish. If you are not a fan of cilantro, you can skip it or substitute with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a different but still fresh garnish.

Instructions

Making Instant Pot Mexican Rice is remarkably simple and straightforward. The Instant Pot significantly reduces the cooking time and ensures perfectly cooked, fluffy rice every time. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create delicious and authentic Mexican rice in your Instant Pot:

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

• Turn your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function on the “Normal” or “Medium” setting. Allow the Instant Pot to heat up for a minute or two.
• Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the Instant Pot. Once the oil is heated and shimmering (this should take about 30 seconds), add the finely diced yellow onion.
• Sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes softened and translucent. You want the onion to be fragrant and slightly softened but not browned.
• Add the minced garlic to the Instant Pot and sauté for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as burnt garlic can become bitter. Sautéing the garlic briefly releases its flavor and aroma without making it bitter.

Step 2: Toast the Rice and Add Spices

• Add the 1 ½ cups of rinsed long-grain white rice to the Instant Pot. Stir the rice into the sautéed onions and garlic.
• Sauté the rice for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until it becomes slightly translucent and lightly toasted. Toasting the rice helps to enhance its flavor and also helps to prevent it from becoming mushy during pressure cooking. This step is crucial for achieving fluffy and separate rice grains.
• Add the 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, ½ teaspoon of dried oregano, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper to the Instant Pot.
• Stir well to combine the spices and tomato paste with the rice, ensuring that the rice is evenly coated. Sauté for another minute to allow the spices to become fragrant and bloom in the heat. Blooming the spices releases their essential oils and intensifies their flavor, resulting in a more aromatic and flavorful rice dish.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Tomatoes

• Pour in the 2 cups of chicken broth (or vegetable broth).
• Add the 1 (14.5 ounce) can of diced tomatoes (undrained) to the Instant Pot.
• Stir everything together to ensure all the ingredients are well combined and the rice is submerged in the liquid. Scrape the bottom of the Instant Pot with a spoon or spatula to ensure no rice is stuck to the bottom, which can prevent the Instant Pot from coming to pressure and potentially cause a burn notice.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

• Securely close the Instant Pot lid and ensure the pressure valve is set to the “Sealing” position.
• Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function on your Instant Pot.
• Set the cooking time for 5 minutes at high pressure.
• Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally pressure release for 10 minutes. This means letting the pressure release on its own without manually venting. Natural pressure release helps to prevent the rice from becoming mushy and allows it to finish cooking gently.
• After 10 minutes of natural pressure release, carefully quick release any remaining pressure by moving the pressure valve to the “Venting” position. Be cautious of the steam that will be released. Once the pressure is fully released and the float valve has dropped, it is safe to open the Instant Pot lid.

Step 5: Fluff and Serve

• Open the Instant Pot lid and gently fluff the Mexican rice with a fork. Fluffing the rice separates the grains and releases any remaining steam, resulting in perfectly fluffy rice.
• Taste the rice and adjust seasoning if needed. You may want to add a little more salt or pepper to taste, depending on your preference and the saltiness of your broth and tomatoes.
• Stir in the ¼ cup of chopped fresh cilantro (if using) for a fresh and vibrant garnish.
• Serve the Instant Pot Mexican Rice hot as a side dish with your favorite Mexican meals, in burrito bowls, or as a base for other dishes.

Nutrition Facts

Understanding the nutritional content of your meals is important for maintaining a balanced diet. Please note that the following nutrition information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and variations.

Servings: Approximately 6 servings
Serving Size: About ¾ cup to 1 cup

Estimated Nutrition Facts per Serving:

• Calories: Approximately 220-250 calories
• Total Fat: 5-7 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 1-2 grams
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4-5 grams
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Sodium: 400-500 mg (can vary based on broth and canned tomatoes)
• Total Carbohydrates: 35-40 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
  • Sugars: 3-5 grams
• Protein: 4-5 grams

Important Notes:

• These values are estimates and may vary.
• Using low-sodium broth and no-salt-added canned tomatoes can reduce the sodium content.
• Adding more vegetables or lean protein to your meal alongside this rice will enhance its nutritional profile.
• This recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.

For more precise nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use. However, this estimated information provides a good general understanding of the nutritional content of this delicious Instant Pot Mexican Rice.

Preparation Time

One of the great advantages of this Instant Pot Mexican Rice recipe is its quick preparation time. From start to finish, you can have flavorful and perfectly cooked rice on the table in under 30 minutes. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation and cooking time:

• Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
  • This includes chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, rinsing the rice, measuring out spices and other ingredients, and gathering all your components. Efficient knife skills and organized preparation can help minimize prep time.
• Cook Time (Instant Pot): Approximately 20 minutes
  • Sautéing: 5-7 minutes (onions, garlic, rice, spices)
  • Pressure Cooking: 5 minutes at high pressure
  • Natural Pressure Release: 10 minutes
  • Quick Pressure Release (if needed): 1-2 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 25-35 minutes

This quick cooking time makes Instant Pot Mexican Rice an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you need a flavorful and satisfying side dish without spending hours in the kitchen. The Instant Pot streamlines the cooking process, making it significantly faster than traditional stovetop rice cooking methods.

How to Serve

Instant Pot Mexican Rice is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a wide variety of dishes. Its flavorful and slightly savory profile makes it a perfect complement to many Mexican and Tex-Mex meals, as well as other cuisines. Here are some delicious ways to serve and enjoy your Instant Pot Mexican Rice:

• As a Side Dish for Mexican Entrees:
  • Tacos: Serve alongside your favorite tacos – beef, chicken, fish, or vegetarian. The rice adds a hearty and flavorful base to your taco plate.
  • Fajitas: Mexican rice is a classic accompaniment to sizzling fajitas. It soaks up the delicious juices and provides a satisfying side.
  • Enchiladas: Pair with cheese, chicken, or beef enchiladas for a complete and comforting Mexican meal.
  • Burritos and Burrito Bowls: Include Mexican rice as a key component in your burritos or burrito bowls, along with beans, protein, salsa, guacamole, and other toppings.
  • Quesadillas: Serve as a side to quesadillas for a more substantial and filling meal.
  • Carnitas or Barbacoa: The rice complements the rich and savory flavors of slow-cooked meats like carnitas or barbacoa perfectly.
• In Bowls and Salads:
  • Mexican Rice Bowls: Create vibrant and healthy bowls by layering Mexican rice with black beans, corn, salsa, avocado, grilled chicken or tofu, and a drizzle of lime crema.
  • Southwest Salads: Add cooled Mexican rice to your Southwest-style salads for extra texture and flavor. Combine with black beans, corn, bell peppers, tomatoes, and a cilantro-lime dressing.
• As a Filling:
  • Stuffed Bell Peppers: Use Mexican rice as a flavorful filling for bell peppers, along with ground meat, beans, or vegetables.
  • Empanadas or Samosas: Incorporate Mexican rice into the filling for savory empanadas or samosas for a unique twist.
• Topped with:
  • Fresh Salsa: Top with your favorite fresh salsa – pico de gallo, salsa verde, or mango salsa for added freshness and flavor.
  • Guacamole or Avocado: A dollop of guacamole or sliced avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats.
  • Sour Cream or Mexican Crema: A swirl of sour cream or Mexican crema provides a cooling and tangy contrast to the savory rice.
  • Queso Fresco or Cotija Cheese: Crumble some queso fresco or cotija cheese over the top for a salty and cheesy finish.
  • Pickled Onions or Jalapeños: Add pickled onions or jalapeños for a tangy and spicy kick.
  • Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges for squeezing fresh lime juice over the rice, enhancing the flavors and adding brightness.

No matter how you choose to serve it, Instant Pot Mexican Rice is a versatile and delicious side dish that will enhance any meal. Its flavorful and fluffy texture makes it a crowd-pleaser and a staple in many kitchens.

Additional Tips

To ensure your Instant Pot Mexican Rice is absolutely perfect every time, and to explore variations and enhancements, here are five additional tips to keep in mind:

1. Customize the Spice Level: This recipe provides a mild to medium spice level, which is generally family-friendly. However, you can easily adjust the spice to your preference. For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili powder to ½ teaspoon or even ¼ teaspoon. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely chopped jalapeño pepper (seeds removed for less heat, seeds included for more heat) when sautéing the onions and garlic. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to the finished rice for extra heat. Taste as you go and adjust spices to find your perfect level of spiciness.
2. Enhance Flavor with Broth and Aromatics: Using chicken broth or vegetable broth instead of water significantly enhances the flavor of the rice. For an even richer flavor, consider using homemade broth or a high-quality store-bought broth. Don’t underestimate the power of aromatics. Sautéing the onions and garlic properly is crucial for building a flavorful base. Make sure to sauté them until they are fragrant and softened but not browned or burnt. You can also add other aromatics like a bay leaf during pressure cooking (remember to remove it before serving) or a few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary for a slightly different flavor profile.
3. Don’t Skip Rinsing the Rice: Rinsing the rice before cooking is a critical step for achieving fluffy and separate grains. Rinsing removes excess starch from the surface of the rice grains, which prevents the rice from becoming sticky or gummy during cooking. Place the rice in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear. This usually takes a few minutes. Skipping this step can result in mushy or clumped rice, especially in the Instant Pot.
4. Experiment with Vegetables: While this recipe is delicious as is, you can easily incorporate vegetables to add more nutrition, flavor, and texture. Consider adding:
   • Corn: Add ½ cup of frozen or canned corn (drained) along with the diced tomatoes. Corn adds sweetness and a pop of color.
   • Peas: Add ½ cup of frozen peas during the last minute of sautéing or stir them in after the rice is cooked and fluffed. Peas add sweetness and a tender texture.
   • Bell Peppers: Dice ½ bell pepper (any color) and sauté it with the onions and garlic for added sweetness and crunch.
   • Carrots: Finely dice ½ carrot and sauté it with the onions and garlic for sweetness and subtle earthiness.
   • Black Beans: Add ½ cup of cooked black beans (rinsed and drained) along with the diced tomatoes for added protein and fiber.
5. Make it Ahead and Reheat: Instant Pot Mexican Rice is a great dish to make ahead of time. It stores well in the refrigerator and reheats beautifully. To store, let the rice cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a skillet on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to prevent it from drying out. Reheating in the Instant Pot is also possible. Add a splash of broth or water to the rice in the Instant Pot, and use the “Steam” function for a few minutes or the “Keep Warm” function until heated through.

FAQ Section

Here are five frequently asked questions about making Instant Pot Mexican Rice, along with helpful answers to ensure your cooking experience is smooth and successful:

Q1: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

A: Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio. Brown rice requires more liquid and a longer cooking time than white rice. For Instant Pot brown rice, a general guideline is to use a 1:1.5 ratio of rice to liquid and cook for 22-25 minutes at high pressure with a 10-minute natural pressure release. Keep in mind that brown rice will have a nuttier flavor and chewier texture compared to white rice. The overall flavor profile will still be delicious, but the texture will be different.

Q2: My Instant Pot is giving me a “Burn” notice. What should I do?

A: A “Burn” notice typically indicates that food is stuck to the bottom of the Instant Pot and is overheating. Here are a few things to check and do:
* Ensure sufficient liquid: Make sure you have added the correct amount of liquid (2 cups of broth and undrained diced tomatoes). Insufficient liquid is a common cause of burn notices.
* Deglaze the pot: After sautéing, make sure to scrape the bottom of the pot thoroughly to remove any browned bits that may be stuck. Use the broth to deglaze the pot, scraping with a spoon or spatula to lift any stuck food.
* Layer ingredients correctly: While not always necessary for rice, layering can sometimes help. Ensure the tomatoes and broth are at the bottom and the rice is on top, but gently stir to combine before pressure cooking.
* Check for sugar content: Some canned tomatoes or tomato paste may have added sugar, which can contribute to burning. While this recipe is unlikely to burn, be mindful of ingredients in other recipes.
* If you get a burn notice: Quickly release pressure, open the lid, and check the bottom. If only slightly burnt, you might be able to salvage the rice by transferring it to another pot, avoiding the burnt bottom layer. If severely burnt, you may need to start over, carefully following the steps and ensuring sufficient liquid and proper deglazing.

Q3: Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

A: Absolutely! This recipe is easily adaptable to vegetarian and vegan diets. To make it vegetarian, simply ensure your broth is vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. To make it vegan, use vegetable broth and ensure all other ingredients are plant-based. All the other ingredients in this recipe, such as rice, vegetables, spices, and oil, are naturally vegan. The flavor and texture will remain delicious and authentic even when made vegetarian or vegan.

Q4: Can I double the recipe?

A: Yes, you can easily double this recipe for a larger crowd. Simply double all the ingredient quantities. The cooking time in the Instant Pot should remain the same (5 minutes at high pressure with a 10-minute natural pressure release). However, it may take slightly longer for the Instant Pot to come to pressure with a larger volume of ingredients. Make sure not to exceed the maximum fill line of your Instant Pot when doubling the recipe.

Q5: My rice came out mushy. What did I do wrong?

A: Mushy rice can be caused by a few factors:
* Too much liquid: Ensure you are using the correct liquid ratio (1:1.33 rice to broth). Too much liquid will result in mushy rice. Double-check your measurements.
* Not rinsing the rice: As mentioned earlier, rinsing the rice is crucial for removing excess starch. Skipping this step can lead to sticky or mushy rice.
* Overcooking: While 5 minutes is generally the correct cooking time for white rice in the Instant Pot, variations in Instant Pot models or rice types can sometimes affect cooking time. Ensure you are using long-grain white rice. If you suspect your Instant Pot cooks hotter, you might try reducing the cooking time by a minute next time.
* Insufficient natural pressure release: Allowing for a 10-minute natural pressure release is important. Quick releasing pressure immediately after cooking can sometimes result in mushy rice. Natural pressure release allows the rice to finish cooking gently and absorb the remaining moisture.

By following these tips and FAQs, you’ll be well-equipped to make perfect Instant Pot Mexican Rice every single time. Enjoy!

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