Green Rice Pilaf Recipe

Ingredients

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice (not converted)
1/4 cup finely chopped white onion
2 fresh poblano or Anaheim chilies,* roasted, peeled, seeded, deveined and chopped
6 thin green onions, thinly sliced
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1-3/4 cups chicken broth
1-1/2 cups shredded queso Chihuahua or Monterey Jack cheese, divided
1/3 cup coarsely chopped fresh cilantro Cilantro & a sprig for garnish (optional)
Chilies can sting and irritate the skin; wear rubber gloves when handling peppers and do not touch eyes. Wash hands after handling.

Preparation

Step 1

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat until hot. Add rice. Cook and stir 2 minutes or until rice turns opaque.
2. Add white onion; cook and stir 1 minute. Stir in chilies, green onions, garlic, salt and cumin; cook and stir 20 seconds.
3. Stir in broth. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer 15 minutes or until rice is almost tender.
4. Remove skillet from heat. Add 1 cup cheese and chopped cilantro; toss lightly to mix. Transfer to greased 1-1/2-quart baking dish; top with remaining 1/2 cup cheese.
5. Bake, uncovered, 15 minutes or until rice is tender and cheese topping is melted. Garnish, if desired.