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Budget Tuna And Rice One Pot Easy Fluffy Family Under $10

Budget Tuna And Rice One Pot Easy Fluffy Family Under $10


  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Diet: High-Protein

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 cups long-grain white rice (thoroughly rinsed)
  • 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
  • 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth (or water with a bouillon cube)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley or oregano (optional)
  • Fresh lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics. Place a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat and add the vegetable oil or butter. Once hot, add the diced onion. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and soft. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  2. Step 2: Toast the Rice. Add the rinsed white rice directly into the pot with the onions and garlic. Stir the rice constantly for about 2 minutes. This “toasting” step coats the grains in oil, which helps them stay separate and fluffy rather than clumping together during the boiling process.
  3. Step 3: Simmer the Mixture. Pour in the broth (or water) and add the salt, pepper, and dried herbs. Bring the liquid to a rolling boil. Once boiling, turn the heat down to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for 15 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time, as the steam is essential for cooking the rice evenly.
  4. Step 4: Incorporate Tuna and Veggies. After 15 minutes, quickly lift the lid and scatter the drained tuna and frozen peas and carrots over the top of the rice. Do not stir yet. Replace the lid immediately and cook for another 5 minutes on low. This allows the frozen vegetables to steam and the tuna to warm through without becoming mushy.
  5. Step 5: Fluff and Serve. Remove the pot from the heat. Use a fork to gently fold the tuna and vegetables into the rice. Fluffing with a fork instead of a spoon keeps the grains intact. Let it sit for 2 minutes covered before serving. Garnish with a squeeze of fresh lemon to brighten the flavors.
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes