I’ve been making this red pepper rice recipe for years, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. It’s a staple in many Asian cuisines, but I like to think it’s a bit more Americanized, with the addition of some extra spices and herbs.
The combination of the sweet and smoky red peppers with the savory rice is just magic. My kids love helping me make it, and they’re always asking for seconds.
It’s a great recipe for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Plus, it’s super healthy and packed with fiber and antioxidants from the peppers.
I like to serve it with some grilled chicken or a simple green salad on the side. The best part?
It’s ridiculously easy to make and requires minimal prep time. I can have it on the table in under 30 minutes, which is perfect for a busy family like mine.
Red Pepper Rice
4.8 from 1659 votes
Red Pepper Rice is a flavorful and colorful dish made with bell peppers, rice, and aromatic spices. It is easy to prepare and perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
1Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2This helps to remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.
3Set the rice aside to drain.
4In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
5Add the chopped onion and sauté until the onion is translucent and slightly golden, about 5 minutes.
6Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
7Add the diced red bell peppers to the saucepan and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peppers are softened and slightly caramelized.
8Stir in the salt, paprika, cumin, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
9Cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring constantly.
10Add the drained rice to the saucepan and stir well to combine with the vegetable mixture.
11Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, to toast the rice slightly.
12Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil.
13Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water has been absorbed.
14Avoid lifting the lid during this time to ensure even cooking.
15Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the rice rest, covered, for an additional 10 minutes.
16This allows the rice to steam and become even more tender.
17After resting, fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Tips: For added flavor, you can use vegetable or chicken broth instead of water. To make this dish spicier, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño pepper.
Watch Video Of How Red Pepper Rice Works
This red pepper rice recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or want to impress your guests with a special dish.
It’s easy to reheat and serve again the next day, so feel free to make extra if you need to.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can add your own favorite spices or herbs to give it an extra boost of flavor.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Red Pepper Rice
1. What type of red peppers should I use?
I prefer to use sweet bell peppers, but you can also use hot cherry peppers if you like a little heat. Just be sure to adjust the amount of seasoning accordingly.
2. Can I use leftover cooked rice?
Yes, you can definitely use leftover cooked rice, but make sure it’s not too old or mushy. Freshly cooked rice is always best.
3. How long does this recipe keep in the fridge?
This recipe will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days, but I like to make it fresh each time for maximum flavor and texture.
4. Can I add protein like chicken or shrimp? Absolutely! Adding some cooked chicken or shrimp will give this dish even more depth of flavor and make it more substantial.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
6. Can I make this recipe in bulk? You can definitely scale up this recipe to feed a larger crowd, just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
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