Mexican White Rice

Mexican White Rice Recipe - Vegan food from Italy and Mexico

Region / culture: Italy, Mexico | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegan diet

Introduction

Mexican White Rice is a classic side dish that is simple to make and pairs well with a variety of Mexican dishes. This recipe features fluffy white rice cooked with garlic, onion, and fresh parsley for a flavorful and aromatic dish.

History

White rice has been a staple in Mexican cuisine for centuries, brought over by Spanish colonizers during the colonial period. The addition of garlic, onion, and parsley to the rice is a traditional Mexican twist that adds depth of flavor to this simple dish.

Ingredients

2 tbsp of canola oil
3 cloves of garlic, peeled and halved
0.75 cup of finely chopped white onion
1.5 cups of medium-grain white rice
3 cups of hot water
2 large sprigs of fresh italian parsley
1.25 tsp of fine sea salt

How to prepare

Heat the oil in a heavy medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until it turns deep brown, which should take about 3 minutes. Remove and discard the garlic. Next, add the onion to the saucepan and sauté until it becomes tender, which should take about 5 minutes. Stir in the rice and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Pour in 3 cups of hot water, along with the parsley and salt (be careful as the mixture may sputter). Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer until almost all of the liquid is absorbed, which should take about 15 minutes. Stir the rice, then cover it again and continue to simmer until all of the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender, which should take about 5 minutes longer. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 10 minutes. Discard the parsley and fluff the rice with a fork.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
Stir in a can of black beans or corn for added protein and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to sauté the garlic until it is deep brown to infuse the oil with flavor before adding the onion.

- Stir the rice frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

- Let the rice stand covered off the heat for 10 minutes after cooking to allow it to steam and become fluffy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Mexican White Rice alongside your favorite Mexican dishes such as enchiladas, tacos, or fajitas.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making perfect Mexican White Rice is to sauté the garlic and onion until they are tender and aromatic before adding the rice. This helps to build layers of flavor in the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use olive oil or vegetable oil in place of canola oil.

- If you don't have fresh parsley, you can use dried parsley instead.

Make Ahead Tips

Mexican White Rice can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Mexican White Rice with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lime juice for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Mexican White Rice pairs well with a variety of Mexican dishes such as chicken enchiladas, beef tacos, or shrimp fajitas.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Mexican White Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Mexican White Rice contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Mexican White Rice contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Mexican White Rice contains approximately 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Mexican White Rice contains approximately 3 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Mexican White Rice is a good source of iron, magnesium, and vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free.

Summary

Mexican White Rice is a nutritious side dish that is low in fat and calories, making it a healthy addition to any meal.

Summary

Mexican White Rice is a simple and flavorful side dish that is perfect for serving with your favorite Mexican meals. With just a few ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one that I hold close to my heart. It was a warm summer day, much like today, when I stumbled upon the secret to making the most delicious Mexican White Rice. I had always been fascinated by the flavors and aromas of Mexican cuisine, and I was determined to learn how to recreate them in my own kitchen.

I had heard whispers of a renowned chef who lived in a small village in Mexico, known for her exquisite culinary skills and her ability to create dishes that were both simple and full of flavor. I knew that if anyone could teach me the art of Mexican cooking, it would be her.

So, armed with nothing but a notebook and a sense of determination, I set off on a journey to find this elusive chef. After many hours of travel, I finally arrived at the village where she lived. The streets were lined with colorful houses and the air was filled with the tantalizing scents of spices and herbs.

I finally found the chef’s humble little restaurant, tucked away in a quiet corner of the village. As soon as I walked in, I knew that I was in for a treat. The walls were adorned with colorful paintings and the aroma of simmering spices filled the air. The chef herself was a small, elderly woman with twinkling eyes and a warm smile.

I introduced myself and explained that I was eager to learn the secrets of Mexican cooking. To my delight, the chef agreed to take me under her wing and teach me everything she knew. And so, my culinary education began.

The first recipe she taught me was for Mexican White Rice. It was a simple dish, but one that was full of flavor and perfectly complemented any Mexican meal. The key, she explained, was in the preparation and the quality of the ingredients.

We started by toasting the rice in a hot skillet until it was golden brown and fragrant. Then, we added in onions, garlic, and a medley of spices – cumin, paprika, and oregano. The aroma that wafted through the kitchen was intoxicating, and I knew that I was in for a real treat.

Next, we added in a can of diced tomatoes and a splash of chicken broth, allowing the rice to simmer and absorb all of the delicious flavors. The chef showed me how to test the rice for doneness by pressing a spoon into the center and tasting a small bite. It was a simple trick, but one that ensured perfectly cooked rice every time.

Finally, we fluffed the rice with a fork and sprinkled it with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. The finished dish was a beautiful symphony of flavors – savory, spicy, and just a touch of sweetness from the tomatoes.

As I took my first bite, I was transported back to that warm summer day in the small village in Mexico. I could taste the love and care that had gone into each ingredient, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Since that day, I have made Mexican White Rice countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to my own tastes and preferences. But no matter how many times I make it, the memory of that first time will always hold a special place in my heart.

And so, as I sit here in my kitchen, preparing a batch of Mexican White Rice for my family to enjoy, I can’t help but smile. The journey that began with a simple recipe has led me to a lifetime of culinary adventures and unforgettable memories. And for that, I am truly grateful.