Chipotle Rice Recipe
The term "chipotle" comes from the Nahuatl word chīlpoctli, meaning "smoked chili." Chipotle peppers, which are smoked and dried jalapeños, are central to many Mexican dishes, giving them a smoky, spicy kick. Chipotle rice combines this iconic ingredient with rice to create a dish that balances heat, zest, and aromatic flavors. While its exact origins are hard to pinpoint, chipotle rice gained significant popularity thanks to Mexican-American restaurants and fast-food chains like Chipotle, which serve it as a signature side or base for burrito bowls.
Equipment
- Medium-sized saucepan with a lid
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or basmati for extra fluffiness)
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce (chopped finely)
- 1 teaspoon adobo sauce (from the chipotle can)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the IngredientsRinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents clumping.
- Finely chop the chipotle pepper and garlic, and dice the onion.
- Sauté AromaticsHeat olive oil or butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent (about 2–3 minutes).
- Add the Rice and ChipotleStir the rinsed rice into the saucepan, coating it evenly with the oil and aromatics.
- Add the chopped chipotle pepper and adobo sauce. Stir well to combine.
- Cook the RicePour in the water or chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the rice simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid during this process to retain steam.
- Add the Finishing TouchesRemove the saucepan from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the rice to steam and become fluffy.
- Fluff the rice with a fork, then mix in the lime juice and chopped cilantro.
- Serve and EnjoyServe the chipotle rice warm as a side dish or use it as a base for burrito bowls, tacos, or grilled meats.