Sonoran Rice Recipe
Overview:
Sonoran Rice is a vibrant and flavorful dish inspired by the culinary traditions of Sonora, Mexico. This recipe combines long grain rice with a medley of aromatic ingredients, resulting in a dish that pairs perfectly with chicken or fish. With its spicy kick and rich cheesy topping, it’s sure to become a weeknight favorite for you and your family.
- Preparation Time: 45 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per Serving: 341
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup long grain rice
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 7 plum tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Heat olive oil in a skillet, preferably electric, over medium heat. Add the long grain rice, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring constantly, until the rice is lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds depth of flavor to the dish. |
| 2 | Stir in the diced plum tomatoes, Pace salsa, tomato juice, and chicken broth, ensuring you add a total of 2 cups of liquid in addition to the Pace salsa. This mixture provides the perfect balance of acidity and richness to the rice. |
| 3 | Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer the rice mixture for about 20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. It’s important not to stir the rice during this time to prevent it from becoming mushy. |
| 4 | Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and allow it to sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to steam. This step ensures perfectly fluffy rice with each bite. |
| 5 | Before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the Sonoran rice. The melted cheese adds a creamy and indulgent finish to the dish. |
| 6 | Serve the Sonoran rice hot as a flavorful side dish alongside your favorite chicken or fish. Enjoy the spicy and cheesy goodness with each forkful! |
Tips:
- For added heat, you can customize the spice level of this dish by using hot Pace salsa or adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Feel free to substitute the cheddar cheese with Monterrey Jack cheese for a milder flavor profile.
- Make sure to use high-quality long grain rice for the best texture and taste.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick and delicious meal.
Conclusion:
Sonoran Rice is a delightful fusion of Mexican flavors that transforms humble rice into a standout dish. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its spicy kick and cheesy goodness. Give it a try and elevate your rice game to new heights! 🌶🧀
