Flavorful Instant Pot Salsa Rice
Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Flavorful Instant Pot Salsa Rice! Combining fragrant long-grain white rice with zesty salsa and savory chicken stock, this dish captures the essence of Mexican cuisine in a quick and effortless way. Perfectly cooked in the Instant Pot, this one-dish meal is not only hearty but also brimming with rich flavors. Whether you're serving it as a side or as the main attraction, it's sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal in just minutes with minimal cleanup!
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Olive Oil
1 tablespoon (none)
Onion
1/4 cup (diced)
Long Grain White Rice
2 cups (none)
Chicken Stock
2 1/3 cups (none)
Salsa
1 cup (none)
Salt
1 teaspoon (none)
Instructions
1
Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the 'Sauté' setting.
2
Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and diced onions to the pot, sautéing for about 1 to 2 minutes until the onions are translucent.
3
Stir in 2 cups of long-grain white rice, sautéing for another 2 to 3 minutes to lightly toast the rice and enhance its flavor.
4
Next, add 2 1/3 cups of chicken stock, 1 cup of salsa, and 1 teaspoon of salt into the rice mixture, stirring well to combine all ingredients.
5
Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and ensure the steam valve is set to the 'sealed' position.
6
Select 'Manual' and set the timer for 10 minutes on high pressure.
7
When the cooking time is completed, carefully and slowly release the steam by turning the steam valve to 'venting' position to allow all the pressure to escape.
8
Once the steam has fully released, open the lid, and gently fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Flavorful Instant Pot Salsa Rice?
It is a quick and effortless Mexican-inspired side or main dish made by cooking long-grain white rice with salsa and chicken stock in an Instant Pot.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
What type of rice should I use for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for 2 cups of long-grain white rice.
How long do I set the Instant Pot for?
You should set the timer for 10 minutes on high pressure using the 'Manual' setting.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this vegetarian by substituting the chicken stock with vegetable stock.
Do I need to sauté the onions first?
Yes, use the 'Sauté' setting to cook the onions in olive oil for 1 to 2 minutes until translucent.
Why do I need to sauté the rice before pressure cooking?
Sautéing the rice for 2 to 3 minutes lightly toasts the grains, which helps to enhance the overall flavor and texture.
What kind of salsa works best?
You can use any jarred or fresh salsa of your choice; the heat level of the dish will depend on whether you use mild, medium, or hot salsa.
How much liquid is required for this recipe?
You will need 2 1/3 cups of chicken stock and 1 cup of salsa, which provides the moisture for the rice.
How should I release the steam?
Once the cooking time is up, carefully and slowly turn the steam valve to the 'venting' position for a quick release.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
This specific recipe is designed for long-grain white rice; brown rice would require a longer cooking time and a different liquid ratio.
Is there any salt in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of salt added to the mixture before cooking.
Should I fluff the rice after it is cooked?
Yes, after the steam is released, open the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Can I use water instead of chicken stock?
You can use water, but chicken stock is recommended as it adds a savory depth of flavor to the rice.
How much onion is needed?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of diced onion.
Can I add beans to this dish?
Yes, you can stir in a can of rinsed black beans or pinto beans before pressure cooking for added protein.
Is this a one-pot meal?
Yes, it is categorized as a one-dish meal with minimal cleanup.
How do I prevent the 'Burn' notice on the Instant Pot?
Make sure to stir the ingredients well and scrape any bits off the bottom of the pot after sautéing before sealing the lid.
Can I use frozen onions?
Yes, frozen diced onions can be sautéed directly in the pot following the same instructions.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
The specific serving size in weight or volume is not specified, but the recipe yields a total of 6 servings.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients as long as you do not exceed the 'max fill' line of your Instant Pot; the cooking time remains the same.
Can I use butter instead of olive oil?
Yes, butter can be used for sautéing the onions and rice for a richer flavor.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Is this dish spicy?
The spiciness depends entirely on the salsa you choose. Use mild salsa for a kid-friendly version or hot salsa for more kick.
Can I freeze salsa rice?
Yes, this rice freezes well. Store it in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.
What should I serve with salsa rice?
It pairs perfectly with tacos, enchiladas, grilled chicken, or can be used as a base for burrito bowls.
Do I need to rinse the rice before cooking?
The recipe doesn't require it, but rinsing the rice can help remove excess starch for fluffier results.
Can I add garlic to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add minced garlic during the last minute of sautéing the onions.
What if my rice is too wet after cooking?
If it is too wet, let it sit with the lid off for a few minutes to allow the moisture to evaporate, then fluff it again.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Rice is naturally gluten-free; just ensure that your chicken stock and salsa brands are certified gluten-free.