Mexican Rice (Phases 2 and 3)

Preparation time: 5 minutes

Total time: 45 minutes

Makes 4 servings (about 3 cups)

When plain rice starts to get boring, spice it up with this traditional Tex-Mex favorite. Used widely in the Southwestern United States and inspired by traditional Spanish and Mexican recipes, this seasoned rice spans cultures to delight diners across the world.

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 cup uncooked brown basmati rice

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 1 small red bell pepper, finely diced

• 1½ teaspoons chili powder

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

• Dash of cayenne, or to taste (optional)

• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes

• 1½ cups water

• ¼ cup chopped cilantro

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the rice and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes. Add the onion, bell pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne. Cook, stirring, for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables soften.

Add the tomatoes and water. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30 to 45 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed.

Fluff with a fork, garnish with cilantro, and serve hot.

Calories: 260

Carbohydrate: 43 g

Protein: 5 g

Fat: 9 g