Mexican Skillet Rice

Mexican Skillet Rice Recipe - Delicious Beef and Rice Dish from Mexico

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

Introduction

Mexican Skillet Rice is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines lean turkey, brown rice, pinto beans, and flavorful spices. This one-skillet meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends and family.

History

Mexican Skillet Rice is a modern twist on traditional Mexican flavors. It combines elements of Mexican cuisine, such as chili powder, cumin, and beans, with American ingredients like lean turkey and brown rice. This dish is a fusion of flavors that is sure to please your taste buds.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) of lean ground beef or turkey
1 medium onion, chopped
2 tbsp of chili powder
1 tsp of ground cumin
0.5 tsp of salt
3 cups of cooked brown rice
1 16 oz (454 g) can of pinto beans, drained
2 4 oz (113 g) cans of diced green chiles
1 medium fresh tomato, seeded and chopped (optional)
fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

How to prepare

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the meat until browned, stirring to crumble. Drain the excess fat. Return the meat to the skillet.
Add the onion, chili powder, cumin, and salt to the skillet. Cook until the onion is tender.
Stir in the rice, beans, and chiles. Heat thoroughly.
Top with tomato and garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Serve immediately.

Variations

Swap the turkey for ground beef, chicken, or tofu for a different flavor profile.
Add corn, bell peppers, or black beans for extra vegetables and fiber.
Use white rice or quinoa instead of brown rice for a different texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the turkey until it is browned and crumbled to ensure even cooking.

- Be sure to drain any excess fat from the skillet after cooking the turkey.

- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or toppings, such as avocado, cheese, or sour cream.

- For a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the skillet.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Mexican Skillet Rice with a side of fresh salsa, guacamole, or a green salad for a complete meal. You can also top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced avocado for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making Mexican Skillet Rice is to cook the turkey until it is browned and crumbled, and to ensure that all the ingredients are heated thoroughly before serving. Be sure to stir the mixture frequently to prevent sticking and burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have all the ingredients on hand, feel free to make substitutions based on what you have available. You can use ground beef instead of turkey, kidney beans instead of pinto beans, or canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the turkey mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the mixture in a skillet and add the rice, beans, and chiles before serving.

Presentation Ideas

To make Mexican Skillet Rice look more appealing, garnish it with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, or a squeeze of lime juice. You can also serve it in individual bowls or on a large platter for a family-style meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Mexican Skillet Rice pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as cornbread, tortilla chips, or a side of refried beans. You can also serve it with a cold beer, margarita, or glass of iced tea for a refreshing drink.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Mexican Skillet Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the dish until heated through, or heat it in a skillet on the stovetop.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Mexican Skillet Rice contains approximately 350 calories. This dish is a satisfying and nutritious option for a meal.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Mexican Skillet Rice contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Fats

Each serving of Mexican Skillet Rice contains approximately 8 grams of fat. The lean turkey used in this recipe helps keep the fat content low while still providing flavor and protein.

Proteins

Each serving of Mexican Skillet Rice contains approximately 25 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, making this dish a great option for a balanced meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Mexican Skillet Rice is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including iron, potassium, and vitamin C. These nutrients are important for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains turkey, which may be a common allergen for some individuals. Be sure to check for any food allergies before preparing this dish.

Summary

Mexican Skillet Rice is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. This dish is a flavorful and nutritious option for a quick and easy dinner.

Summary

Mexican Skillet Rice is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With lean turkey, brown rice, pinto beans, and a blend of spices, this one-skillet meal is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. I was visiting my dear friend Maria, who had recently moved to Mexico and invited me over for dinner. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, the aroma of spices and herbs filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Maria greeted me with a warm hug and a smile as she stirred a large skillet filled with rice, tomatoes, beans, and a medley of colorful vegetables. The vibrant colors and fragrant spices captivated me, and I knew I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, Maria shared with me the story behind the recipe. She had learned it from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through generations in their family. The dish was a staple in their home, enjoyed during family gatherings and special occasions.

Maria graciously offered to teach me how to make the Mexican Skillet Rice, and I eagerly accepted. We spent the rest of the evening in her kitchen, chopping vegetables, measuring out spices, and simmering the ingredients together in the skillet. Maria guided me through each step, sharing tips and tricks she had learned from her grandmother.

As the dish cooked, the flavors melded together, creating a rich and savory aroma that filled the kitchen. Maria and I chatted and laughed as we worked, bonding over our love of cooking and sharing stories from our lives.

Finally, the Mexican Skillet Rice was ready, and we served ourselves generous portions on colorful plates. The first bite was a revelation - the rice was perfectly cooked, the vegetables tender yet still crisp, and the spices added a depth of flavor that was simply delicious.

I couldn't believe how easy it was to make such a flavorful and satisfying dish. Maria smiled as she watched me eat, pleased to see how much I enjoyed the meal.

Before I left, Maria wrote down the recipe for me on a small scrap of paper. She urged me to make it at home and to share it with my own family and friends. I promised her I would, and I thanked her for introducing me to such a wonderful dish.

Since that day, the Mexican Skillet Rice has become a favorite in my own home. I have made it for countless gatherings and dinner parties, each time receiving rave reviews from my guests.

Whenever I cook the dish, I think of Maria and her grandmother, and I am grateful for the tradition they have passed down to me. The recipe is not just a collection of ingredients and instructions - it is a link to the past, a connection to the generations of cooks who have lovingly prepared and shared this dish.

In a world that is constantly changing, the Mexican Skillet Rice is a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories, and to nourish both body and soul. I am grateful for the recipe, for Maria's friendship, and for the joy that cooking brings into my life. And I look forward to passing down this delicious tradition to future generations in my own family.