Mexican Rice – The Mexican Rice Recipe is a side dish that brings the flavors of Mexican cuisine directly to your table. It combines the aromas of garlic, onions, tomatoes, and cooked rice making it a crowd-pleaser that goes well with any meal. In 35 minutes you can serve up a bowl of this dish and embark, on a culinary adventure!
I still vividly recall the occasion when I first prepared this Mexican Rice Recipe for my family. The kitchen was permeated with the fragrance of sizzling garlic and onions in oil. As I stirred the rice to achieve a hue my husband and child eagerly awaited what was about to be served. Their faces lit up with joy as they took their first bites. Ever since then, it has become a favorite in our household.
What makes this Mexican Rice truly scrumptious?
This Mexican Rice Recipe offers the convenience of being quick and easy to prepare as a side dish, within 35 minutes. It authentically captures the essence of Mexican cuisine through its fusion of garlic, onions and tomatoes—taking your meals to new heights in terms of flavor. Its versatility allows it to perfectly complement both family dinners and gatherings alike; moreover incorporating carrots and peas adds a twist to it. For those who enjoy a bit of spice you can add some serrano peppers to give the dish a hint of heat. This will make it an excellent choice to include on any menu.
What You Need To Make This Mexican Rice Recipe?
Long-Grain White Rice: For the texture and flavor, it is recommended to use long-grain white rice. After cooking its slender grains stay separate and fluffy.
Oil (Vegetable or Canola Oil): When sautéing the rice you can opt for either vegetable or canola oil. These oils have a flavor that allows the other ingredients to stand out.
Minced Garlic and Diced Onion: To infuse the dish, with savory flavors start with minced garlic and finely diced onion as a fragrant base.
Tomato Sauce or Pureed Tomatoes: For that umami-packed taste tomato sauce or pureed tomatoes are essential. They add a sweetness and tang to the rice.
Tomato Bouillon Granulated or Cubes: To enhance the depth and richness of the recipe tomato bouillon granules or cubes are an ingredient. They provide a packed punch to the dish.
Salt: A pinch of salt is necessary to balance out the slightly sweet elements and enhance flavor.
Carrot: Diced carrots not only bring color to the dish but also contribute a subtle sweetness along, with healthy nutrients.
Peas (Frozen or Fresh): Whether you prefer fresh peas they add a burst of color and a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the elements.
Water: Lastly water is needed for cooking purposes. The water serves as the cooking liquid, for the rice guaranteeing that it is cooked to perfection and infused with all the ingredients.
Serrano Peppers (Optional): If desired you can add Serrano peppers to bring an enjoyable spiciness to the dish without overwhelming it. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
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Steps To Make Mexican Rice:
Step 1: To begin start by rinsing your rice until the water runs clear. This step is essential to ensure that your rice cooks perfectly. Set it aside for now.
Step 2: Next, grab a saucepan. Heat up some oil. Once it’s nice and hot add the rice. Let the magic happen. Stir it well. Allow it to become beautifully toasted and golden, for around 10 minutes. This is where all the flavors come alive!
Step 3: Now it’s time to add in the tomato sauce, garlic, and those delightful little onions. Give everything a stir. Let the kitchen fill with that irresistible aroma. Enhance the flavor game by adding tomato bouillon and a pinch of salt. Don’t forget to include carrots and peas for both color and nutrition. For a kick of spice, you can throw in serrano peppers if you’d like.
Step 4: Now let’s turn up the heat! Bring the mixture to a boil before covering it up reducing the heat and allowing it to simmer cozily for 20 minutes. This gives time for all those wonderful flavors to infuse into the rice.
Step 5: Patience is key, at this point—remove it from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes.
Step 6: Fluff it up using a fork. You’re ready to indulge in a serving of Mexican Rice that is bursting with flavor guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds!
Tip:
For an added burst of flavor you might want to toast your rice a little until it turns a golden brown shade before adding the tomato sauce and other ingredients. This simple extra step enhances the flavors of the rice and takes the taste of your Mexican Rice to new heights making it even more irresistible. Just make sure to keep a watch, on it to avoid burning – it’s an effort that brings big rewards when it comes to flavor!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Sure you can definitely make this recipe spicier! If you’re a fan of some kick go ahead. Add more serrano peppers to adjust the heat level.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
While white rice is traditionally used in this recipe you can try using brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary.
What can I serve with Mexican Rice?
Mexican Rice goes well with a variety of dishes, like enchiladas, tacos or grilled chicken. It’s also delicious on its own, as a side dish.
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Mexican Rice Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 c long-grain white rice
- 1/4 c oil vegetable or canola oil
- 1 tsp garlic minced
- 1/4 medium onion finely diced
- 1/4 c tomato sauce or 2 pureed tomatoes
- 2 tsp tomato bouillon granulated or cubes
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 carrot diced
- 1/2 c peas frozen or fresh
- 3 c water
- 1-3 whole serrano peppers optional
Instructions
- Start by rinsing the rice in a mesh strainer until the water becomes clear. Set it aside.
- In a saucepan heat the oil over high heat. Once it's hot add the rice. Mix it well. Cook over medium heat stirring frequently until the rice takes on a golden brown color (about 10 minutes).
- Next incorporate the tomato sauce, garlic and diced onion into the pan. Stir, in the tomato bouillon, salt, carrots, peas and water. If you desire a touch of spice you can add serrano peppers for flavor without heat.
- Bring this mixture to a boil. Then cover it with a lid. Reduce the heat to low and allow it to simmer for 20 minutes or until all of the water is absorbed.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat. Let it rest for 5 minutes. Then use a fork to fluff up the rice before serving.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
