If you’re looking for a quick and delicious side dish, this easy Mexican rice recipe is a perfect choice. Bursting with flavors from tomatoes, spices, and fresh herbs, this rice dish pairs wonderfully with your favorite Mexican entrees or can be enjoyed on its own. It’s a colorful addition to any plate and can be made in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking process to bring this delightful dish to your table!
Ingredients
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 of the recipe): Calories: 200, Protein: 4g, Carbohydrates: 38g, Fat: 2g, Fiber: 3g. This nutritional information is based on one serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper; sauté until soft (about 5 minutes).
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Add the drained tomatoes, chili powder, and cumin; mix well.
6. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
7. Stir in the rinsed rice and a pinch of salt.
8. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
9. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
10. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute long-grain rice with brown rice for a healthier option, but adjust cooking times accordingly. Additionally, you can use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth for added flavor.
Serving and Pairings
This easy Mexican rice pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, tacos, or enchiladas. It can also be served with a fresh salad or as a base for a rice bowl topped with your favorite proteins and vegetables.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave until warm or sauté in a pan with a splash of broth. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using too much water can make the rice mushy.
- Not rinsing the rice may leave excess starch, resulting in sticky rice.
- Overcooking can lead to burnt rice at the bottom.
- Skipping the sautéing step can diminish flavor.
- Not letting the rice sit covered after cooking can make it gummy.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, add a bay leaf while the rice cooks.
- Experiment with different spices like paprika or oregano.
- Make it spicy by adding diced jalapeños.
- For a richer color, try using saffron or turmeric.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time. Typically, brown rice takes about 40-45 minutes to cook, so adjust the liquid and time accordingly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this easy Mexican rice recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses rice and broth that do not contain gluten.
Can I make this rice dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time, refrigerate, and simply reheat when ready to serve.
What can I add for more protein?
You can add black beans, pinto beans, or grilled chicken to the rice for added protein.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat, add more chili powder, diced jalapeños, or even a splash of hot sauce to the cooking process.
Conclusion
This easy Mexican rice recipe is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly flavorful, making it a wonderful accompaniment to your favorite dishes. With fresh ingredients and vibrant spices, it will surely become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy this delightful side dish at your next meal!
Easy Mexican Rice
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a medium saucepan, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper; sauté until soft (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the drained tomatoes, chili powder, and cumin; mix well.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Stir in the rinsed rice and a pinch of salt.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro.
Nutrition
