Zesty Cumin Avocado Rice
This vibrant Zesty Cumin Avocado Rice is a delightful side dish that bursts with flavor and color, making it an ideal accompaniment to any meal. Infused with warm, aromatic cumin and enlivened by fresh avocado and zesty picante sauce, this rice dish is not only satisfying but also a great way to enjoy healthy fats and nutrients. Chopped cilantro can elevate its freshness even more! Serve it alongside burritos, fajitas, or grilled meats for a well-rounded dining experience.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
water
2 1/4 cups (measured)
butter
1 tablespoon (cut into pieces)
chicken bouillon granules
2 teaspoons (measured)
ground cumin
3/4 teaspoon (measured)
uncooked long grain rice
1 cup (measured)
picante sauce
1/3 cup (measured)
ripe avocado
1 (peeled and cubed)
green onions
2 (sliced)
Instructions
1
In a large saucepan, bring 2 1/4 cups of water to a rolling boil.
2
Once boiling, stir in the tablespoon of butter, chicken bouillon granules, and ground cumin until well combined and the butter has melted.
3
Add 1 cup of uncooked long-grain rice to the saucepan. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
4
Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. This will help the rice become fluffy.
5
Gently stir in 1/3 cup of picante sauce, allowing it to heat through and infuse the rice with flavor.
6
Just before serving, fold in the cubed ripe avocado and sliced green onions to add a fresh and creamy element to the dish.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Cumin Avocado Rice?
It is a vibrant and flavorful side dish made with long-grain rice, aromatic cumin, picante sauce, and fresh avocado.
How long does it take to cook the rice?
The rice needs to simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, followed by a 5-minute resting period to ensure it is fluffy.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Yes. To make it vegetarian/vegan, substitute the chicken bouillon with vegetable bouillon and use oil or a vegan butter alternative.
What type of rice is best for this dish?
The recipe calls for uncooked long-grain rice, which provides the best texture for a fluffy side dish.
How do I prevent the avocado from browning?
Fold the cubed avocado into the rice just before serving to maintain its bright green color and freshness.
What does the cumin add to the flavor profile?
Ground cumin provides a warm, earthy, and aromatic flavor that complements the Mexican-inspired ingredients.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the water amount and increase the cooking time to approximately 45-50 minutes.
What is picante sauce?
Picante sauce is a smooth, spicy tomato-based sauce that adds zest and a bit of heat to the rice.
Are there any additional toppings I can add?
Chopped fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, or even some shredded cheese would make excellent toppings.
What are the primary ingredients?
The main ingredients include rice, water, butter, chicken bouillon, cumin, picante sauce, avocado, and green onions.
Is this dish gluten-free?
It can be gluten-free if you ensure your chicken bouillon and picante sauce are certified gluten-free.
Can I use a rice cooker for this recipe?
Yes, add everything except the picante sauce, avocado, and onions to the cooker, then fold those in once the cycle is finished.
What should I serve with Zesty Cumin Avocado Rice?
It pairs perfectly with burritos, fajitas, grilled chicken, or fish tacos.
Can I make this rice in advance?
You can cook the rice ahead of time, but wait until the moment of serving to add the fresh avocado and green onions.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, though the avocado may brown slightly.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild to moderate heat depending on the spice level of the picante sauce you choose.
How many green onions should I use?
The recipe recommends using 2 sliced green onions for the best balance of flavor.
Can I use fresh chicken broth instead of water and bouillon?
Yes, you can substitute the 2 1/4 cups of water and bouillon with an equal amount of chicken broth.
Does this recipe contain healthy fats?
Yes, the fresh avocado provides healthy monounsaturated fats and essential nutrients.
What is the purpose of letting the rice sit for 5 minutes?
Letting it sit allows the moisture to redistribute, ensuring the rice is light and fluffy rather than sticky.
How do I know if the avocado is ripe enough?
A ripe avocado should yield to gentle pressure in your palm but shouldn't feel mushy.
Can I use olive oil instead of butter?
Yes, olive oil can be used as a heart-healthy alternative to butter for sautéing or flavoring the rice.
What is the ratio of water to rice in this recipe?
The ratio is 2 1/4 cups of water to 1 cup of uncooked long-grain rice.
Is this a Mexican-inspired dish?
Yes, the combination of cumin, avocado, and picante sauce gives it a distinct Mexican flavor profile.
Can I add black beans to this rice?
Absolutely! Stirring in rinsed black beans at the end would add extra protein and fiber.
Should I wash the rice before cooking?
Rinsing the rice under cold water until it runs clear helps remove excess starch for fluffier results.
Can I use salsa instead of picante sauce?
Yes, any variety of salsa will work, though picante sauce usually has a smoother consistency.
Is this a good recipe for meal prep?
Yes, though it is best to store the cubed avocado separately and add it when you are ready to eat.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 main ingredients used to create this flavorful rice dish.
Can I double the recipe for a large group?
Yes, simply double all the ingredients and use a larger saucepan to accommodate the increased volume.