Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into a mouthwatering Mexican-inspired sensation! This Slow Cooker Elote Rice is not just a side dish—it's a culinary journey that brings the vibrant street food flavors of Mexican street corn directly to your kitchen. Imagine creamy, perfectly cooked rice infused with sweet corn, tangy lime, and a kick of chili, all prepared with minimal effort in your trusty slow cooker. Whether you're a busy home cook or a flavor enthusiast, this recipe promises to elevate your meal game with minimal prep and maximum deliciousness.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups uncooked rice
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the uncooked rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- Grease the interior of the slow cooker with a light cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Pour the vegetable broth into the slow cooker, then add the rinsed rice and corn kernels. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cook for approximately
- 5 to 4 hours, checking occasionally to ensure the rice doesn't stick or burn.
- Once the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, turn off the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes with the lid on.
- In a separate small bowl, mix mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and a pinch of salt to create the elote-style dressing.
- Fluff the rice with a fork, then gently fold in the prepared dressing, ensuring even distribution.
- Sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese over the top of the rice and serve hot.
- Optional: Garnish with additional chili powder, fresh cilantro, or chopped green onions for extra flavor.
Tips
- Rice Rinsing is Key: Always rinse your rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, which helps prevent a sticky, gummy texture.
- Liquid Ratio Matters: Use the recommended 4 cups of vegetable broth for 2 cups of rice to ensure perfectly cooked, fluffy rice.
- No Peeking Rule: Minimize lifting the slow cooker lid during cooking to maintain consistent temperature and cooking time.
- Cheese Tip: Add cotija cheese just before serving to maintain its crumbly texture and fresh flavor.
- Customize Your Heat: Adjust the chili powder to suit your spice preference—start mild and add more if desired.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This dish can be prepared in advance and gently reheated, making it perfect for meal prep or potlucks.
- Garnish Generously: Don't skip the optional garnishes—fresh cilantro or green onions can add a bright, fresh dimension to the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
