Tex-Mex Rice
Tex-Mex Rice Recipe - A Flavorful Dish from Mexico
Introduction
Tex-Mex Rice is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the bold flavors of Texan and Mexican cuisine. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal or as a side dish for a larger gathering.
History
Tex-Mex Rice has its roots in the fusion of Texan and Mexican cuisine. It combines traditional Texan ingredients such as rice, bell peppers, and cheese with Mexican spices like chili powder and garlic. This dish has become a popular staple in many households due to its delicious flavors and simple preparation.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of chopped onion
- 1 cup of chopped green bell pepper
- 0.5 cup of chopped celery
- 2 tbsp of butter or margarine
- 2 tsp of chili powder
- 1 tsp of salt
- 0.25 tsp of garlic powder
- 3 cups of cooked rice
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1.5 cups of cottage cheese
- 2 tbsp of grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups of grated cheddar cheese, divided
How to prepare
- In a saucepan, cook the onion, green pepper, and celery in butter until the vegetables are soft but not browned.
- Add salt and garlic powder to the mixture and cook for 2 to 3 minutes to develop color.
- Add the rice to the saucepan. Simmer the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the flavors are well blended.
Variations
- Add cooked ground beef or turkey for a heartier dish.
- Substitute black beans for the cottage cheese for a vegetarian option.
- Top with sliced avocado, sour cream, or salsa for added flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to cook the vegetables until they are soft but not browned to ensure they are tender and flavorful.
- Stir the rice mixture occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- For a spicier kick, add additional chili powder or a dash of hot sauce to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Tex-Mex Rice as a side dish with grilled chicken or beef fajitas. It also pairs well with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to cook the vegetables until they are soft but not browned to ensure they are tender and flavorful.
- Stir the rice mixture occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use olive oil instead of margarine for a healthier option.
- Substitute Monterey Jack cheese for the cheddar cheese for a milder flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
Tex-Mex Rice can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Tex-Mex Rice in individual bowls topped with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or chopped green onions for a pop of color.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Tex-Mex Rice with a refreshing glass of iced tea or a cold Mexican beer for a complete Tex-Mex meal experience.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers of Tex-Mex 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
350
Carbohydrates
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
Fats
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
Proteins
- Protein: 14g
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamin A: 15%
- Vitamin C: 30%
- Calcium: 25%
- Iron: 10%
Alergens
Contains dairy (cheese)
Summary
Tex-Mex Rice is a balanced dish that provides a good source of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins A and C, calcium, and iron.
Summary
Tex-Mex Rice is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the bold flavors of Texan and Mexican cuisine. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first saw this recipe for Tex-Mex Rice. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her small kitchen. The air was filled with the delicious aroma of spices and simmering vegetables, and I could hardly wait to learn the secrets of her famous dish.
Maria was a wonderful cook, and she had learned to make Tex-Mex Rice from her own grandmother who hailed from Texas. She told me that this recipe had been passed down through the generations, and she was excited to share it with me.
As we worked together in the kitchen, Maria shared stories of her childhood and the memories she had of learning to cook with her grandmother. She told me about the traditions and flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine, and how important it was to her to keep those traditions alive.
I watched closely as Maria chopped onions, peppers, and tomatoes with expert precision. She explained the importance of using fresh ingredients and the right combination of spices to create the perfect balance of flavors. I could see the love and care she put into each step of the recipe, and I knew that this dish was going to be something special.
As the rice cooked and absorbed the savory broth, Maria added in the vegetables and spices, stirring gently to combine everything together. The kitchen was filled with the mouth-watering scents of cumin, chili powder, and garlic, and I could hardly contain my excitement as the dish came together.
Finally, after what seemed like an eternity of waiting, the Tex-Mex Rice was ready. Maria scooped out a generous portion onto my plate, topping it with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a dollop of creamy avocado. I took my first bite, savoring the explosion of flavors that danced on my taste buds.
The rice was perfectly cooked, fluffy and flavorful, with just the right amount of heat from the spices. The vegetables added a burst of freshness and color, while the creamy avocado provided a cool contrast to the warmth of the dish. It was a symphony of flavors that sang in perfect harmony, and I knew that I had just tasted something truly special.
As I savored each bite, Maria smiled at me, her eyes twinkling with pride. She had passed on her family's recipe to me, and I felt honored to have learned from such a talented and generous cook. I knew that this dish would become a staple in my own kitchen, a reminder of the love and tradition that Maria had shared with me that day.
And so, every time I make Tex-Mex Rice, I think of Maria and her grandmother, and the rich culinary heritage that they passed on to me. I am grateful for their wisdom and generosity, and for the delicious flavors that continue to bring joy and warmth to my table. Cooking is not just about following a recipe, it's about connecting with the past and keeping traditions alive. And thanks to Maria, I will always have a piece of that tradition in my heart and on my plate.
Categories
| Cheddar Recipes | Chili Powder Recipes | Cottage Cheese Recipes | Green Bell Pepper Recipes | Mexican Recipes | Parmesan Cheese Recipes | Rice Recipes | Side Dish Rice Recipes |