Zojirushi Rice Cooker Mexican Rice

You can make a tasty Zojirushi Rice Cooker Mexican Rice by using long grain white rice, chicken broth, tomato sauce, white onion, garlic, and jalapeño. It will take you about 1 hour to prepare, and it will be enough to serve 8 people. Serve your Slow Cooker Mexican Rice alongside refried beans, guacamole, pico de gallo, and sour cream.

To make this Mexican Rice in your Zojirushi rice cooker, start by rinsing the rice well and combining all ingredients except cilantro and lime in the cooker. Stir, cook as directed, and let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

No matter which rice cooker you own – Master Chef, Presto, or Zojirushi – you can easily cook your Mexican Rice and other tasty recipes like Buckwheat Kasha, Beef Stew, and Whole Chicken. Enjoy the convenience and simplicity of cooking these delicious dishes.

Zojirushi Rice Cooker Mexican Rice Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
• 2 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 8 ounces tomato sauce
• 3 tablespoons butter
• ½ small white onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jalapeño, minced (optional)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ¼ teaspoon chipotle chili powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
• Lime wedges, for serving (optional)

How To Make Mexican Rice in Zojirushi Rice Cooker

1. Prepare the Rice: Rinse 1 ½ cups of long-grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This is to remove excess starch.
2. Combine Ingredients: In the inner cooking pan of your Zojirushi Rice Cooker, combine the rinsed rice, 2 ½ cups of broth, 8 ounces of tomato sauce, 3 tablespoons of butter, the finely chopped half onion, minced garlic, minced jalapeño (if using), 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, ¼ teaspoon of chipotle chili powder, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt.
3. Stir the Mixture: Use a rice paddle or a wooden spoon to stir the ingredients together, making sure that they are evenly distributed throughout the pan.
4. Cook the Rice: Place the inner cooking pan into the rice cooker. Close the lid securely. Plug the power cord into the outlet and press the cooking switch to start. The cooking light will indicate that the rice is being cooked.
5. Wait for Completion: The rice cooker will automatically switch to “Keep Warm” mode once the rice is cooked. Allow the rice to steam under the “Keep Warm” setting for about 15 minutes. This will help to make the rice fluffier and tastier.
6. Fluff and Serve: After the steaming time, open the lid and use a rice paddle to fluff the rice gently. This helps to separate the grains and incorporate any remaining moisture.
7. Garnish and Enjoy: Transfer the rice to a serving dish. If desired, garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Recipe Tips

1. Rice Washing: Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, which helps in preventing clumping and stickiness.
2. Layering Ingredients: Distribute all ingredients evenly in the cooker to ensure uniform flavor and cooking.
3. Butter Use: The butter in the recipe adds richness. You can substitute it with olive oil for a lighter version.
4. Spice Adjustment: Adjust the amount of cumin and chili powder according to your taste preference for spice.
5. Steaming Time: Allow the rice to steam in the ‘Keep Warm’ setting to enhance its texture and flavor.
6. Garnishing: Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for added freshness and a zesty flavor.

Recipe Variation

1. Protein-Loaded Mexican Rice: Add cooked black beans or shredded chicken for a protein-rich version of the dish.
2. Cheesy Mexican Rice: Stir in some grated cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese after cooking for a creamy, cheesy twist.
3. Tomato Twist: Use diced fresh tomatoes in place of tomato sauce for a fresher, more textured dish.
4. Herb Infusion: Add chopped fresh parsley or oregano for an aromatic flavor.
5. Citrus Flair: Squeeze lime juice over the cooked rice for a tangy, citrusy accent.
6. Coconut Mexican Rice: Replace a portion of the chicken broth with coconut milk for a creamy, tropical flavor.

Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice instead of white rice. Keep in mind that brown rice has a longer cooking time and may require more liquid. It offers a nuttier flavor and a chewier texture, which can add a wholesome twist to your Mexican rice.

How Can I Add More Vegetables to This Recipe?

To make your Mexican rice more nutritious, you can add diced bell peppers, corn, peas, or carrots. Add these vegetables with the rice before cooking. They will not only add color but also enhance the nutritional value of the dish.

Is It Possible to Make This Dish Spicier?

Certainly. To increase the heat, add more jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also use a hotter variety of chili powder or add diced chipotle peppers for a smokier, spicier flavor.

What To Serve With Mexican Rice

You can pair Mexican rice with many delicious dishes like savory tacos, rich enchiladas, hearty burritos, or succulent grilled meats. The vibrant flavors of Mexican rice will perfectly complement your meal. It also pairs exceptionally well with sides such as creamy beans, zesty guacamole, and freshly made salsa, allowing you to create a diverse and satisfying Mexican-themed meal.

How To Store Mexican Rice

In The Fridge:

Chill Mexican rice and then put it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When you store it correctly, you can keep it fresh and full of flavor for approximately five to six days.

In The Freezer:

To store Mexican rice for a longer time, you should freeze it in a container or a zip-lock bag that is tightly sealed. When you freeze it, you can keep its quality for up to two months. To get the best results, make sure you thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

How To Reheat Mexican Rice

To reheat your Mexican rice, you should use a microwave. Heat it in brief periods, making sure to stir it every now and then until it’s completely hot. To warm your rice effectively, you can use a saucepan. Just put it on medium heat and add a little water or broth to keep the rice moist and prevent it from drying out while reheating.

Check out More Rice Cooker Recipes:

• Zojirushi Rice Cooker Pancake
• Basmati Rice In Zojirushi Rice Cooker
• Zojirushi Rice Cooker Steel Cut Oats