Who knew leftover rice could be this exciting? It’s transform your leftovers Tuesday, so let’s turn yesterday’s rice into a mouthwatering Tex-Mex Stir Fry! Inspired by my love for Asian stir fry, this dish is flexible, fun, and oh-so-tasty. Use whatever you have in the fridge—leftover meat, black beans, corn, green onions, or cilantro. Top it all off with queso and salsa for that extra creaminess and flavor. This quick and easy meal will make...
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Chop the cilantro and keep it aside.
If using leftover meat, dice it into small pieces.
Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir to break up any clumps.
Mix in the black beans, corn, and diced meat. Stir well.
Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper over the mixture. Stir to combine and cook for 5 minutes.
Add the salsa and stir to evenly coat the ingredients. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the queso until melted and creamy.
Garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro before serving.
Use any type of leftover rice, but day-old rice works best as it’s less sticky.
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
If you like it spicy, add a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños.
For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and add more beans or veggies.
Serve with tortilla chips or warm tortillas for a complete Tex-Mex experience.
Can I use freshly cooked rice instead of leftover rice?
Yes, you can use freshly cooked rice, but make sure it’s cooled slightly to avoid it becoming too sticky in the stir fry.
What type of meat works best for this recipe?
Any leftover cooked meat like chicken, beef, or pork works well. You can also use cooked shrimp for a seafood twist.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, simply skip the queso and use a vegan cheese alternative or avocado for creaminess.
How do I store leftovers of this dish?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze this stir fry?
Yes, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Sandra is the face behind @SaffronandTarragon who shares approachable, globally-inspired recipes with practical tips and honest, relatable moments.
