Green Mexican rice, or arroz verde, is a vibrant and flavorful side dish that elevates any Mexican-inspired meal. Forget bland, boring rice – this recipe bursts with fresh herbs, zesty lime, and a subtle kick of jalapeño, creating a perfect complement to tacos, burritos, or even enjoyed on its own. Its vibrant green hue comes from a simple blend of fresh cilantro and tomatillos, creating a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and requires readily available ingredients.
Beyond its stunning appearance and incredible taste, green Mexican rice is incredibly versatile. Adjust the spice level to your liking, and feel free to experiment with different herbs and additions. Ready to create this delicious side dish? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions that will have you enjoying this vibrant rice in no time.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Pot
Ingredients
- Rice
- Bell pepper (red, yellow, green)
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Green chilies
- Basil leaves
- Coriander (cilantro)
- Onion
- Butter
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Sugar
- Vinegar
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Rice and Ingredients
- Soak rice in water.
- Boil the rice until it's about 90% cooked.
- bell peppers, garlic, ginger, green chilies, basil, and coriander.
Step 2. Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables
- Heat butter in a pan. Sauté chopped garlic, ginger, and green chilies.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until softened.
- Add the herb paste (garlic, ginger, chilies, basil, coriander) and sauté well.
- Add salt and black pepper.
- Add the chopped bell peppers and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
Step 3. Combine and Finish
- Add vinegar and sugar (optional).
- Add the cooked rice to the pan and stir to combine everything well. Cook for a few minutes until heated through and the rice is green.
Step 4. Make the Herb Paste (Optional Consolidation)
- Crush the garlic, ginger, green chilies, basil, and coriander into a paste.
Read more: Quick & Easy Pantry Mexican Rice with Rotel
Tips
- Bell peppers are optional. You can make the rice without them.
- Vinegar adds a tangy flavor.
- Sugar and vinegar complement each other well to enhance the rice's taste.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 200-250
- Fat: 5-10g
- Carbs: 30-40g
- Protein: 2-4g
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe without tomatillos?
Yes! You can substitute the tomatillos with 1 (14.5 ounce) can of diced tomatoes, drained. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
2. How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add more jalapeño! You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
This vibrant and flavorful green Mexican rice is the perfect addition to your next Mexican feast, or a delightful standalone side dish. Its ease of preparation makes it a weeknight winner, and the customizable nature allows for endless variations to suit your taste. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary efforts!