A vibrant and delicious rice dish packed with vegetables and spices, perfect for any occasion.
Heat the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until melted.
Using butter adds a rich flavor to the dish, but you can use olive oil for a lighter option.
Add the diced carrot, peas, onion, and bell peppers to the saucepan and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
Cut the vegetables into uniform sizes for even cooking.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.
Pour in the salsa and water, then bring the mixture to a boil.
Use a high-quality salsa for the best flavor.
Add the rice to the saucepan, stir well, and bring back to a boil.
Rinse the rice beforehand to remove excess starch for fluffier grains.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 25 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to ensure even steaming.
Stir in the cumin and turmeric, then fluff the rice with a fork.
Adding the spices at the end preserves their vibrant flavors.
Serve the rice warm, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Pair with a side of beans or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.