Hello and welcome to Rice Cookers 101! Today we have a delicious recipe for Spicy Cheese Rice that will tantalize your taste buds and satisfy your hunger. This recipe is quick and easy to make, perfect for a simple yet flavorful weeknight meal or as a side dish for a special occasion. So let’s grab our rice cookers and get started on making this cheesy and spicy rice dish! We’ve made this spicy cheese rice recipe easy to follow 👨‍🍳. If you’re looking for our favorite rice cookers to make this recipe, check out our list of top rice cookers here.

spicy cheese rice ingredients

Ingredients

  • 1 cup white rice
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 cup grated cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 cup white rice in cold water and drain it.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Cook until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed, for about 20 minutes.
  3. While the rice is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 small diced onion, 1 finely chopped seeded jalapeno pepper, 1 minced clove of garlic, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and the spices are fragrant, for about 5 minutes.
  4. When the rice is cooked, add it to the skillet along with 1 drained can of diced tomatoes. Stir everything together until well combined, and let it all cook for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.
  5. Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle on top 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese. Cover the skillet loosely with a lid or with foil and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese has melted.
  6. Serve the spicy cheese rice hot and enjoy!

spicy cheese rice

How long does spicy cheese rice last in the fridge?

Spicy cheese rice can generally be stored in the fridge after cooking for up to 4 days. However, it is important to properly store the rice in an airtight container and ensure it is adequately cooled before refrigeration. It is also recommended to reheat the rice thoroughly before consuming, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F to kill any potential bacterial growth. If the rice has been left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours, it should be discarded to prevent foodborne illness. Overall, while storing spicy cheese rice in the fridge can be a convenient way to enjoy leftovers, it’s important to follow appropriate food safety guidelines to avoid any health risks.

Click the banner below to find more of our favorite rice cookers!

ricecookers

Low calorie spicy cheese rice recipe substitutions

To make this spicy cheese rice recipe lower in calories, several substitutions can be made. Firstly, one can use brown rice instead of white rice, which is more nutritious and has more fiber. Secondly, one can substitute oil with cooking spray or use a smaller amount of oil, such as a teaspoon. Thirdly, skipping the cheese or using a reduced-fat cheese can also reduce the calorie content of this recipe. Additionally, one can reduce the amount of salt used or use a salt substitute. Finally, to add some extra flavor without adding calories, more vegetables such as diced carrots or bell peppers can be added. Overall, these substitutions can help reduce the calorie content of this spicy cheese rice recipe while still retaining its delicious taste.

What to serve with a spicy cheese rice?

There are many options to serve with spicy cheese rice. You can compliment the heat of the rice with a cooling side such as cucumber raita or tzatziki. Alternatively, you can serve it with something sweet like grilled pineapple or mango salsa. If you want to keep it simple, a green salad or steamed vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus or carrots would be a great option. Finally, if you’re looking for a protein, grilled chicken, shrimp or tofu would work well with the flavors in the rice.

Whats the best sauce for a spicy cheese rice?

When it comes to spicy cheese rice, there are a few sauces that can complement the flavors and add some extra zing to your dish. One of the best sauces to consider is a spicy mayo sauce that can be made with mayonnaise, hot sauce, lemon juice, and spices. Other options can include a tangy salsa made with fresh tomatoes, onions, and peppers or a jalapeño cheddar sauce that can be made with jalapeños, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese. Ultimately, the sauce you choose will depend on your personal preferences and the level of spice you want to add to your dish.

Spicy cheese rice health benefits

Spicy cheese rice can provide some health benefits depending on the specific ingredients used. For instance, brown rice is a good source of fiber, B vitamins, and minerals. Spices like cumin and chili pepper contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Cheese, however, is known to be high in saturated fat and sodium, which are not recommended in large amounts. Therefore, it is important to use cheese in moderation and opt for low-fat options. Additionally, adding vegetables like peppers, onions, and spinach to the dish can increase the nutrient density and fiber content. Overall, spicy cheese rice can be a nutritious and flavorful dish as long as it is prepared with healthful ingredients and consumed in moderation. If a healthier recipe is desired, I could suggest a vegetable stir-fry with quinoa or a roasted sweet potato and black bean salad with a lime vinaigrette.

Click the banner below to find more of our favorite rice cookers!