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**Mexican Brown Rice Bake – Gluten-Free**
If you’re looking for a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-make dish that’s full of flavor, look no further than this **Mexican Brown Rice Bake**. Packed with wholesome brown rice, beans, veggies, and a variety of bold seasonings, this dish is a hearty, gluten-free meal that the whole family will love. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish, a side, or a meal prep option, this baked rice dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Here’s how you can create this flavorful and satisfying Mexican-inspired rice bake in no time.
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### Ingredients:
– **1 cup brown rice** (uncooked)
– **2 cups vegetable broth** (or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian version)
– **1 tablespoon olive oil**
– **1 onion**, chopped
– **1 bell pepper**, chopped (red or green)
– **2 cloves garlic**, minced
– **1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes**, undrained
– **1 can (15 oz) black beans**, drained and rinsed
– **1 cup frozen corn kernels** (or fresh if preferred)
– **1 teaspoon cumin**
– **1 teaspoon chili powder**
– **1/2 teaspoon paprika**
– **1/2 teaspoon ground oregano**
– **Salt and pepper**, to taste
– **1 1/2 cups shredded cheese** (cheddar, Mexican blend, or dairy-free cheese for a vegan option)
– **Fresh cilantro**, chopped (for garnish)
– **Lime wedges** (for serving, optional)
### Instructions:
#### 1. **Cook the Brown Rice**
Start by cooking the brown rice. In a medium saucepan, combine the brown rice and vegetable broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Once done, remove from heat and fluff the rice with a fork.
#### 2. **Sauté the Vegetables**
While the rice is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking for about 5-7 minutes, or until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
#### 3. **Combine the Ingredients**
In the same skillet, stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
#### 4. **Assemble the Bake**
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice and the vegetable mixture. Mix until everything is evenly distributed. Transfer the rice mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer.
#### 5. **Top with Cheese**
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the rice mixture. You can use a blend of cheeses like cheddar or Mexican blend, or go for a dairy-free option if you prefer. If you’re not a fan of cheese, you can skip this step, and the dish will still be delicious.
#### 6. **Bake**
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you like a golden, crispy top, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes, but keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
#### 7. **Serve and Garnish**
Once the bake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for a burst of freshness.
### Tips for the Best Mexican Brown Rice Bake:
– **Make It Spicy**: If you love spice, add a chopped jalapeño or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the vegetable mixture for a little extra kick.
– **Add Protein**: For a more filling meal, you can add cooked chicken, ground turkey, or even plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh.
– **Use Other Vegetables**: This recipe is very adaptable. Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms to increase the nutritional value.
– **Prepare Ahead**: This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
– **Make It Vegan**: To make this recipe vegan, simply use dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese altogether. You can also swap the vegetable broth for a vegan-friendly option.
### Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
– **Gluten-Free and Healthy**: This Mexican Brown Rice Bake is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities or anyone looking to eat a more wholesome, nourishing meal.
– **One-Dish Wonder**: Not only is this recipe easy to make, but it’s also simple to clean up. Everything is cooked in one pan and baked in a single dish, making it a hassle-free meal.
– **Flavorful and Filling**: With the combination of spices, beans, corn, and tomatoes, this dish is packed with flavor and texture. The brown rice adds a nutty and hearty element, while the melted cheese (if using) creates a delicious, gooey topping.
– **Perfect for Meal Prep**: Whether you’re making this for the week ahead or feeding a crowd, this recipe is great for meal prepping. It’s easy to store, reheat, and enjoy for several days, making it perfect for busy schedules.
### Conclusion
This **Mexican Brown Rice Bake** is a simple, nutritious, and flavorful dish that brings together the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine with wholesome ingredients. It’s an excellent option for gluten-free eaters, vegetarians, and anyone looking for a hearty meal without the hassle. With just a few ingredients, you can create a comforting and satisfying bake that is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a delicious and versatile choice that’s packed with nutrients and full of flavor!
