Best Easy Arroz con Leche Salado Recipe

A savory version of rice cooked with milk, cheese, and mild chiles. This vegetarian, creamy family side dish offers a unique twist on traditional Mexican rice.

Cook 40 min Difficulty EASY 250 kcal
#vegetarian #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • long-grain white rice 1 cup
  • whole milk 2 cups
  • vegetable broth 1 cup
  • Monterey Jack cheese 1 cup
  • mild green chile 2 pieces
  • butter 2 tbsp
Seasonings/Sauce
  • salt 1 tsp
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 32 g 51%
Protein 9 g 14%
Fat 8 g 29%
Serving size 180g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear and drain thoroughly.

  2. 2

    In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the rice and mild green chiles, stirring for 2–3 minutes until rice is lightly toasted.

  3. 3

    Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing rice to partially absorb the liquid.

  4. 4

    Add the whole milk, salt, and black pepper; stir well. Continue cooking uncovered over low heat for 15–18 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensuring creamy consistency.

  5. 5

    When rice is tender and mixture is creamy, remove from heat. Stir in the Monterey Jack cheese while hot, folding gently until the cheese melts and the dish becomes velvety.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
Rice provides the foundational texture, while whole milk and Monterey Jack cheese combine to create the dish's signature creamy, savory profile. The mild green chiles add a subtle heat and aroma, making these the core components that distinguish savory arroz con leche salado.
Q. How do you control heat to avoid overcooking or undercooking the rice?
Keeping the heat at medium during toasting and then low during simmering is crucial. Simmer with a lid on after adding broth, then maintain gentle heat after adding milk. Stir regularly to prevent sticking and ensure uniform creaminess without burning or undercooking.
Q. What prevents the rice from becoming mushy in this creamy dish?
Rinsing rice beforehand removes excess starch and toasting it in butter helps keep the grains distinct. Steady, gentle stirring while the milk cooks in ensures the rice stays tender but not mushy, maintaining the right creamy texture.
Q. How many calories and what is the protein-to-carb ratio per serving?
Each 180g serving contains about 250 kcal, with 9g protein and 32g carbohydrates. The protein-to-carb caloric ratio is approximately 14% protein to 51% carbs, making it a moderately balanced vegetarian side.
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