Sometimes all it takes to elevate lunch and dinner recipes is to add a little spice to proceedings. If you’re looking for a fun and flavorful way to do this, then cooking chipotle rice meals is the way to go. A much-loved staple of Mexican cuisine, chipotle rice is a unique and versatile dish that works a treat in a whole host of recipes. So join Carolina® Rice as we take you through a range of mouthwatering chipotle recipes guaranteed to add spice to family meals!
Origins of Chipotle
Chipotle, or chilpotle as it’s sometimes known, is made from jalapeño chili pepper that is smoke-dried for seasoning purposes. This technique dates all the way back to the pre-Aztec era, which makes it one of Mexico’s oldest cooking traditions. The peppers can be cooked whole, or ground down into chili powder and blended with other spices.
What’s the difference between chipotle powder and chipotle peppers?
Whether you opt for chipotle chili powder or peppers in your cooking, either variation will bring spice and flavor to your dish. Nevertheless, there are subtle differences between these variations which you may wish to take into consideration when preparing your meal. Chipotle chili powder is generally blended with other spices such as paprika or cumin and brings a smoky, fragrant, and savory dimension to meals. Chipotle peppers, on the other hand, bring more heat to the table and are also known for adding sweet, somewhat fruity notes to dishes.
How is chipotle used in Cooking?
Chipotle is found in a variety of Mexican and Mexican-inspired dishes and is also used in Tex-Mex and Southwestern cuisine.
- Meat seasoning
- Skillet dishes
- Stews
- Chili con carne recipes
- Barbecue sauce
- Adobo marinade
- Rice dishes
- Spicy Salsa dips
- Burritos
- Tacos
- Enchiladas
What to pair with chipotle
The flavor of chipotle pairs wonderfully with a wide variety of herbs and spices. What’s more, it’s frequently added to cilantro and lime rice recipes and also goes well with other staple ingredients such as paprika, cinnamon, oregano, cumin, and garlic.
Now that we’ve explored the origins and uses of chipotle, let’s get into the recipes!
Arroz con Pollo Recipe with Chipotle
To experience the subtle magic of chipotle as an ingredient, try this Chipotle Chicken and Rice, or arroz con pollo as it’s commonly known. Made with succulent chicken drumsticks and fragrant Carolina® Jasmine White Rice, this classic chicken and rice dish is taken up a notch with the inclusion of spicy chipotle peppers. Tasty and comforting, it’s no wonder why this meal has long been a firm favorite among lovers of Mexican food.
Chipotle in Fish Recipes
Not only does chipotle go well with meaty meals, it can also be used to give fish dishes a spicy twist. In this recipe for Tuna Chipotle Meatballs and Rice, chipotle peppers add an extra dimension to this hearty seafood dish. Made with Carolina® Whole Grain Brown Rice, fresh cilantro, marinara sauce, dijon mustard, and pine nuts, don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to tuna recipe!
Carolina® Ready to Heat Chipotle Jasmine Rice
With Carolina® Ready to Heat Chipotle Jasmine Rice incorporating the flavor of chipotle into your rice dishes has never been easier! Ready in 90 seconds, our irresistible chipotle and jasmine rice provides the perfect accompaniment for a wide variety of delicious and easy-to-make meals.
Chipotle Rice Recipe for BBQ Season
Turn up the heat at your next family BBQ with this Barbecue Chicken Skewers Recipe with Chipotle Rice. Made with succulent chicken skewers served on a bed of chipotle seasoned rice, your guests will be in awe of your amazing grill skills. Simply put, the combination of delicious grilled chicken with seasoned chipotle rice is guaranteed to please!
Appetizer Ideas with Chipotle Jasmine Rice
So you’ve just prepared a mouthwatering meal for guests and now you’d like to whip up some tasty appetizers for everyone to snack on before the main event. Luckily, Carolina® Rice has just the recipe for you! These Air Fryer Arancini Rice Balls are a delightfully cheesy treat that you can make with Carolina® Chipotle Jasmine Rice if you want to give them a spicy twist.
Get Creative in the Kitchen
At Carolina® Rice we offer a wide range of delicious rice varieties that enable you to get creative in the kitchen. We believe cooking should be fun, that’s why we encourage you to #playwithyourfood. For more culinary inspiration and expert tips, visit our blog.