Mexican Rice

There are so many ways to make the rice that shares a plate with your enchilada or taco. I find simplicity is often times the best choice and this rice dish will be the perfect addition to your Mexican meal. This is gluten free and can be modified to be vegan.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 stick butter (use vegan butter or olive oil to keep vegan)

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 cup rice

• 2 T tomato paste

• 2 t salt

• 2 cups water

Directions:

1. Rinse and drain rice

2. Melt butter in medium sauce pan. Add in minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute

3. Stir in rice and allow to sauté in the garlic-butter mixture for 2-3 minutes

4. Add in tomato paste and salt and stir to evenly distribute the tomato paste. Then add the water.

5. Bring to a boil, cover and reduce to low. Cook for approximately 15 minutes until water is absorbed.

6. Top rice with chopped cilantro or green onions

Variations: stir fry chopped onions and green chiles along with garlic and add cumin & chili pepper spices