Mexican rice (1)

Mexican Rice Recipe - Authentic Flavors from Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Mexican rice is a flavorful and colorful dish that is a staple in Mexican cuisine. It is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses, from tacos to enchiladas. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

History

Mexican rice, also known as Spanish rice, has a long history dating 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 recipe evolved to include local ingredients such as tomatoes, onions, and peppers, giving it a distinct Mexican flavor.

Ingredients

1 cup of long grain rice
2 tbsp of vegetable oil
1 tsp of garlic powder
1.5 tsp of salt
1 tsp of ground cumin
0.5 of a tomato, chopped
0.5 of a medium onion, finely chopped
1 small carrot, finely chopped
0.5 of a green pepper, finely chopped
1.5 cups of boiling water
16 oz (454 g) of canned tomatoes, cut-up
1 can of tomato sauce, optional

How to prepare

In a skillet, sauté the rice in oil until lightly browned.
Season with garlic, salt, and cumin.
Add tomato, onion, carrot, and green pepper.
Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes.
Remove from heat and add water.
Return to heat and simmer for 35 to 40 minutes, covered, or until the water is absorbed by the rice.
Stir in tomatoes and tomato sauce, if desired, to add color.
Makes 4 servings.
Each serving contains 18% calories from fat.

Variations

Add cooked beans such as black beans or pinto beans for added protein and fiber.
Stir in corn kernels or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Top the rice with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice for a burst of freshness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to sauté the rice in oil until it is lightly browned to enhance its nutty flavor.

- Season the rice with garlic, salt, and cumin for a savory and aromatic taste.

- Adding chopped vegetables like tomatoes, onions, carrots, and green peppers not only adds color but also boosts the nutritional value of the dish.

- Simmer the rice covered to ensure that it cooks evenly and absorbs all the flavors of the ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Mexican rice pairs well with a variety of main dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, grilled chicken, or beef fajitas. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the rice in oil until lightly browned to enhance its flavor.

- Simmer the rice covered to ensure that it cooks evenly and absorbs all the flavors of the ingredients.

- Stir in the tomatoes and tomato sauce at the end to add color and moisture to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier alternative.

- Substitute vegetable oil with olive oil or coconut oil for a different flavor profile.

- Swap out the vegetables with your favorites such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.

Make Ahead Tips

Mexican rice can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Mexican rice in a colorful bowl garnished with fresh cilantro leaves or sliced avocado. You can also sprinkle some crumbled queso fresco or grated cheddar cheese on top for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Mexican rice with dishes such as chicken enchiladas, beef tacos, or grilled shrimp skewers. Serve it alongside a refreshing agua fresca or a cold beer for a complete Mexican-inspired meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Mexican rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Mexican rice contains approximately 250 calories. It is a relatively low-calorie dish that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced meal.

Carbohydrates

Mexican rice is a carbohydrate-rich dish, with each serving containing approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy and are essential for fueling daily activities.

Fats

Each serving of Mexican rice contains 18% of calories from fat. The fat content primarily comes from the vegetable oil used for sautéing the rice. Opt for heart-healthy oils like olive oil to reduce saturated fats.

Proteins

Mexican rice is not a significant source of protein, with each serving containing only a small amount. To increase the protein content, consider adding beans or grilled chicken to the dish.

Vitamins and minerals

Mexican rice is a good source of vitamins and minerals, thanks to the addition of vegetables like tomatoes, onions, carrots, and green peppers. These ingredients provide essential nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.

Alergens

Mexican rice may contain allergens such as gluten from the rice and soy from the vegetable oil. If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, be sure to check the ingredients carefully.

Summary

Mexican rice is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is rich in carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. It is a versatile side dish that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced meal.

Summary

Mexican rice is a delicious and versatile side dish that is easy to make at home. With a few simple ingredients and cooking techniques, you can create a flavorful and colorful dish that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy this classic Mexican recipe as part of your next meal!

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly remember the moment I discovered this recipe for Mexican rice. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. Maria had always been a wonderful cook, and I loved watching her prepare delicious meals for her family.

On this particular day, Maria was making her famous Mexican rice, a dish that her family had been enjoying for generations. As I watched her carefully measure out the ingredients and sauté the rice in a hot pan, I couldn't help but be mesmerized by the sights and smells coming from her kitchen.

"Would you like to learn how to make this rice, my dear?" Maria asked me, a twinkle in her eye. I eagerly nodded, excited at the prospect of adding this authentic Mexican dish to my repertoire of recipes.

As we continued to cook together, Maria shared with me the story of how she had learned to make Mexican rice from her own grandmother many years ago. She told me about the importance of using fresh ingredients, like ripe tomatoes and fragrant cilantro, to achieve the perfect balance of flavors in the dish.

I listened intently as Maria explained the steps involved in making Mexican rice – from toasting the rice in oil until it turned a golden brown color, to simmering it in a flavorful tomato broth until each grain was perfectly cooked and fluffy. It was clear to me that this dish required patience and care to prepare, but the end result was well worth the effort.

As we sat down to enjoy the finished rice, Maria and I shared stories and laughter, savoring each bite of the delicious dish. I knew in that moment that I had found a new favorite recipe, one that would bring joy and comfort to my own family for years to come.

Since that day, I have made Maria's Mexican rice countless times, each time adding my own twist to the recipe. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all raved about its bold flavors and comforting textures. And every time I make it, I can't help but think back to that warm summer day in Maria's kitchen, where I learned the art of making authentic Mexican rice from a dear friend.

As I sit here now, surrounded by the familiar scents of tomatoes and cilantro wafting through my kitchen, I can't help but feel grateful for the memories and traditions that this recipe has brought into my life. It is a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our heritage and those we love, and I am honored to carry on the tradition of making Maria's Mexican rice for generations to come.