If you’re looking for a delicious and easy side dish, this easy Mexican rice recipe is perfect for you! Bursting with flavor, this vibrant rice dish pairs beautifully with tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meats. In just a few simple steps, you can create a flavorful and colorful addition to your meal that everyone will love. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the steps needed to prepare this delightful dish!
Ingredients
– 1 cup long-grain white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, while cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1 cup) contains:
– Calories: 180
– Protein: 4g
– Carbohydrates: 36g
– Fat: 3g
– Fiber: 1g
This nutritional information is based on a single serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
3. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan, stirring to coat the rice in oil.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
7. Add diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, and salt to taste.
8. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender.
9. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
10. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute long-grain rice with brown rice for a healthier option. Additionally, if you’re vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious plant-based version of this dish.
Serving and Pairings
This easy Mexican rice pairs wonderfully with black beans, grilled chicken, or beef tacos. You can also serve it alongside guacamole and salsa for a complete meal experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover Mexican rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave until heated through. This dish can also be frozen; just thaw and reheat in the microwave or on the stove.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip rinsing the rice; it helps remove excess starch.
– Avoid cooking on high heat; it can burn the rice.
– Ensure the lid is tight while simmering to trap steam.
– Don’t stir the rice while it’s cooking; it can make it mushy.
– Measure your liquid accurately; too much or too little affects texture.
– Allow the rice to rest after cooking for better texture.
– Use fresh spices for maximum flavor.
Helpful Tips
– For extra flavor, add a bay leaf while cooking.
– Try adding frozen peas or corn for more color and nutrients.
– For a spicier dish, incorporate jalapeños or hot sauce.
– Use a rice cooker for perfectly cooked rice every time.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice; however, you will need to adjust the cooking time and increase the liquid as brown rice takes longer to cook.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, include diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce during cooking. Adjust to your spice preference!
Can I prepare this rice ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rice a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and reheat it before serving.
What can I serve with Mexican rice?
Mexican rice pairs well with various dishes like grilled meats, tacos, enchiladas, or as a side with beans and salads.
How do I store leftover rice?
Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Conclusion
This easy Mexican rice recipe is a fantastic way to enhance any meal with its vibrant flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving it with your favorite Mexican dishes or enjoying it on its own, this rice is sure to impress. Enjoy your cooking adventure and embrace the flavors of Mexico in your kitchen!
Easy Mexican Rice
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 medium tomato diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan, stirring to coat the rice in oil.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Add diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, and salt to taste.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender.
- Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
