Mexican Rice Pilaf
Mexican Rice Pilaf
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
1 large jalapeño pepper, stemmed, seeded and minced
2 large cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1-1/2 cups white long grain rice, such as Uncle Ben's Original
3-1/3 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 cup frozen peas, defrosted
1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro
2 teaspoons fresh lime juice
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-low heat. Add the onions and jalapeño and cook, stirring frequently, until onions are softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Turn the heat up to medium and add the tomato paste, garlic and rice; cook, stirring frequently, for about 3 minutes. Add the chicken broth, salt, pepper, chili powder and cumin; turn the heat up and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot and simmer until all the liquid is absorbed, about 20 minutes. Add the peas, cilantro and lime juice and fluff the rice with a fork to mix. Let the rice sit for a few moments to "dry out" and lose that wet, just-steamed texture. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper and lime if necessary.
Peace At The Dinner Table - Good Food Has No Borders!