Mexican Rice

Mexican Rice Recipe with Tomatoes, Onion, and Green Pepper

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Mexican rice, also known as Spanish rice, is a flavorful and versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes. This dish is a staple in Mexican cuisine and is loved for its rich flavors and vibrant colors.

History

Mexican rice has a long history that dates back to the Spanish colonization of Mexico. The dish is believed to have originated in the 16th century when Spanish settlers brought rice to Mexico. Over time, the dish evolved to include a variety of ingredients such as tomatoes, onions, and peppers, giving it the distinct flavor that we know today.

Ingredients

2 tsp of oil
1 cup of uncooked rice
1 can of stewed tomatoes (14 oz (397 g))
1 small onion, minced
0.25 cup of chopped green pepper
2 tsp of salt
1 tsp of chili powder
2 cups of water

How to prepare

In a large skillet, heat oil and add rice.
Sauté the rice, stirring, for 5 minutes or until it is evenly browned.
Add all the ingredients and mix them well.
Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer until the rice is tender, about 30 minutes.
Remove the lid and allow the rice to dry out.

Variations

Add diced carrots or peas for added color and flavor.
Use vegetable broth instead of water for a richer flavor.
Add a can of black beans for extra protein.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to sauté the rice before adding the liquid to enhance its nutty flavor.

- Use a high-quality chili powder for the best flavor.

- Be sure to let the rice dry out at the end of cooking to achieve a fluffy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Mexican rice pairs well with a variety of dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, and fajitas. It can also be served as a side dish with grilled chicken or beef.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making perfect Mexican rice is to sauté the rice before adding the liquid. This helps to enhance the nutty flavor of the rice and prevent it from becoming mushy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use brown rice instead of white rice for a healthier option.

- Use diced canned tomatoes instead of stewed tomatoes.

- Use red bell pepper instead of green pepper for a sweeter flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Mexican rice can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Mexican rice in a colorful bowl garnished with fresh cilantro or sliced avocado for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Mexican rice pairs well with dishes such as chicken enchiladas, beef tacos, or grilled shrimp. It also pairs well with a side of refried beans and guacamole.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Mexican rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or heat on the stovetop until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Mexican rice contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Mexican rice is a carbohydrate-rich dish, with each serving containing approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Mexican rice is a low-fat dish, with each serving containing approximately 2 grams of fat.

Proteins

Mexican rice is a low-protein dish, with each serving containing approximately 3 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Mexican rice is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.

Alergens

Mexican rice may contain allergens such as wheat (from the rice) and tomatoes.

Summary

Mexican rice is a flavorful and nutritious side dish that is low in fat and calories. It is a good source of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Mexican rice is a delicious and versatile side dish that is easy to make and pairs well with a variety of Mexican dishes. With its rich flavors and vibrant colors, it is sure to be a hit at your next fiesta.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Mexican Rice. It was many years ago, during a trip to Mexico with my husband. We were exploring the vibrant markets of Mexico City when we stumbled upon a small, bustling food stall. The aroma of spices and grilled meats filled the air, and my mouth watered as I watched the skilled cooks in action.

I struck up a conversation with the owner of the stall, an elderly woman with a warm smile and a twinkle in her eye. She told me that she had been cooking traditional Mexican dishes for over fifty years, and that she had learned all of her recipes from her own grandmother. Intrigued, I asked her if she would be willing to share one of her recipes with me.

Her eyes lit up at the request, and she beckoned me closer. She began to dictate the ingredients and steps to me, her voice filled with passion and love for the food she was describing. As I scribbled down notes in my notebook, I could feel the excitement building within me. This was a recipe that had been passed down through generations, and now it was being entrusted to me.

After returning home from our trip, I wasted no time in trying out the recipe for Mexican Rice. I gathered all of the ingredients – long-grain rice, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a variety of spices – and set to work in my own kitchen. As the rice simmered on the stove, the familiar scents of cumin, chili powder, and cilantro filled the air, transporting me back to that bustling food stall in Mexico City.

When the rice was finally done, I took a tentative bite, unsure of what to expect. But as soon as the flavors exploded on my tongue – the tang of the tomatoes, the heat of the spices, the earthiness of the rice – I knew that I had stumbled upon something truly special. The rice was rich and hearty, with a depth of flavor that I had never experienced before.

I shared the dish with my family that evening, and their enthusiastic reactions confirmed what I already knew – this recipe was a keeper. Over the years, I have made Mexican Rice countless times, tweaking and adjusting the ingredients to suit my own tastes. Each time I make it, I am reminded of that kind-hearted woman in Mexico City, who shared her family recipe with me so generously.

As I have grown older, I have come to realize the true power of food and recipes. They have the ability to connect us to our past, to our ancestors, and to cultures and traditions far beyond our own. Each recipe I have collected over the years – whether from family, friends, or strangers – is a precious piece of history, a link to a moment in time that can never be replicated.

And so, as I stand in my kitchen now, stirring a pot of Mexican Rice on the stove, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for all of the recipes that have come into my life. They have not only nourished me physically, but they have also fed my soul, connecting me to a world of flavors, smells, and memories that will stay with me forever. And for that, I am truly thankful.