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Instant Pot Mexican Rice Recipe

Instant Pot Mexican Rice Recipe

This Instant Pot Mexican rice is a simple, flavorful side dish made with pantry staples and fresh ingredients. It’s easy to prepare, cooks perfectly every time, and pairs well with a variety of meals.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 237

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp avocado oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 small jalapeño minced
  • 1/2 cup white onion finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 cups long grain white rice rinsed and drained
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup pureed tomato
  • 1 carrot diced
  • 1/2 cup green peas
  • 1/2 cup corn
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Equipment

  • Instant Pot
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat the avocado oil until it begins to shimmer, then add the garlic, jalapeño, and onion, cooking until the onion softens and turns translucent.
  2. Add the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, and salt, stirring constantly until the paste blends into the mixture and the spices become fragrant.
  3. Turn off the sauté function and add the rinsed rice, vegetable broth, pureed tomato, carrot, peas, and corn, stirring gently until everything is evenly combined.
  4. Secure the lid and set the valve to sealed, then pressure cook on high until the rice is tender and fully cooked.
  5. Allow the pressure to release naturally before opening the lid, letting the rice finish cooking and settle properly.
  6. Add the lime juice and gently fluff the rice with a fork or spoon to separate the grains.
  7. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve warm while the flavors are fresh and vibrant.

Notes

This Instant Pot Mexican rice is quick to prepare and uses simple pantry ingredients for a flavorful result. The combination of tomato, spices, and vegetables gives it a rich, balanced taste.
Cooking in the Instant Pot ensures perfectly fluffy rice with minimal effort. It works well as a side dish or can be turned into a complete meal with added protein.
The recipe is great for meal prep since it stores and reheats well without losing flavor.