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