Mexican Franks and Rice

Mexican Franks and Rice Recipe - A Tasty and Flavorful Dish from Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Mexican Franks and Rice is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the flavors of savory franks, kidney beans, and melted cheddar cheese with a hint of spice from chili powder. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal that the whole family will love.

History

Mexican Franks and Rice is a popular dish that has been enjoyed by families for generations. It is a comforting and satisfying meal that is easy to prepare and full of flavor. This dish is a great way to use up leftover franks and beans, and it can be customized with your favorite toppings and seasonings.

Ingredients

1 cup chopped onion
1 medium green pepper, cut into 0.75-inch squares
1 12 oz (340 g) package frankfurters, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 15 oz (425 g) can kidney beans
1 8 oz (227 g) can tomato sauce
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp salt
2 cups grated cheddar cheese
3 cups hot cooked rice

How to prepare

In a skillet, cook the onion, green pepper, and franks until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Stir in the beans, tomato sauce, chili powder, salt, and cheese. Cook until the mixture is hot and bubbly. Serve the mixture over fluffy rice and garnish with corn chips, if desired.

Variations

Substitute ground beef or turkey for the franks for a different flavor.
Add corn, black beans, or diced tomatoes to the mixture for extra texture and flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the vegetables and franks until they are tender-crisp to ensure that they retain their texture and flavor.

- Feel free to customize this dish with your favorite toppings, such as sliced avocado, sour cream, or salsa.

- For a spicier dish, add more chili powder or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.

- To save time, you can use pre-cooked rice or leftover rice for this recipe.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Mexican Franks and Rice with a side of tortilla chips, guacamole, and salsa for a complete meal. You can also top it with sliced jalapenos, cilantro, or diced tomatoes for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the vegetables and franks over medium heat to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.

- Stir the mixture frequently to prevent sticking and ensure that all ingredients are evenly coated with the sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of beans, such as black beans or pinto beans, in place of kidney beans.

- Substitute bell peppers or jalapenos for the green pepper for a different level of heat.

- Use any type of rice, such as brown rice or quinoa, in place of white rice.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before serving.

- Cook the rice ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Mexican Franks and Rice in individual bowls or on a large platter for a family-style meal. - Garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for added color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Mexican Franks and Rice with a side of Mexican street corn, a green salad, or a side of refried beans for a complete meal.

- Pair with a cold beer, margarita, or glass of iced tea for a refreshing beverage.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

420

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 45g

- Dietary Fiber: 6g

- Sugars: 3g

Fats

- Total Fat: 18g

- Saturated Fat: 9g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 24g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15%

- Vitamin C: 45%

- Calcium: 30%

- Iron: 20%

Alergens

Contains dairy (cheddar cheese)

Summary

Mexican Franks and Rice is a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a satisfying dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal.

Summary

Mexican Franks and Rice is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. With a combination of savory franks, kidney beans, melted cheddar cheese, and fluffy rice, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this flavorful and hearty meal with your favorite toppings and sides for a complete and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is a special one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in Mexico with my family. Our neighbor, Doña Maria, was known for her delicious cooking and she would often share her recipes with us. One day, she invited me into her kitchen to teach me how to make a dish that she called "Mexican Franks and Rice."

I remember watching in awe as Doña Maria sliced up the franks and sautéed them with onions, garlic, and bell peppers. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the final dish. As she added the rice, tomatoes, and broth to the pan, she explained to me the importance of using fresh ingredients and letting the flavors meld together.

After letting the dish simmer for a while, Doña Maria served me a steaming plate of Mexican Franks and Rice. The first bite was a revelation - the smoky flavor of the franks combined with the savory rice was a taste sensation unlike anything I had ever experienced before. From that moment on, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made this dish countless times for my family and friends, always receiving rave reviews. Each time I prepare it, I am transported back to that day in Doña Maria's kitchen, learning the secrets of her delicious recipe. I have since added my own personal touches to the dish, such as a pinch of cumin or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, but the foundation of the recipe remains the same.

One of my favorite memories of making Mexican Franks and Rice was when my own children were young. They would sit at the kitchen table, eagerly watching me as I prepared the dish, their mouths watering in anticipation. I would always let them help stir the pot or sprinkle in the seasonings, teaching them the same lessons that Doña Maria had taught me so many years ago.

As my children grew older and moved out on their own, I would often pack up a container of Mexican Franks and Rice for them to take home. It became a comforting reminder of their childhood and the love that I had poured into each and every dish. Even now, as they have families of their own, they still request this recipe whenever they come to visit.

I have shared this recipe with many friends over the years, always happy to pass on the tradition of Mexican Franks and Rice. It brings me joy to see others enjoying the same flavors that have brought me so much happiness throughout my life. And I know that as long as I continue to make this dish, the memories of Doña Maria and the lessons she taught me will live on.

In a world that is constantly changing, it is comforting to know that some things remain constant. The recipe for Mexican Franks and Rice is more than just a dish - it is a connection to my past, a reminder of the love and generosity that has shaped me into the person I am today. And as I continue to cook and share this recipe with those around me, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. The memory of finding this recipe for the first time will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the magic that happens when we share our knowledge and our love with others.