why make this recipe
Mexican Rice is a delicious and colorful dish that adds flavor to any meal. It’s not only easy to make, but it also brings a bit of the fiesta spirit to your table. This recipe is perfect as a side dish for tacos, enchiladas, or grilled chicken. Plus, it’s a great way to use up pantry staples like rice and canned tomatoes.
how to make Mexican Rice
Ingredients
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Directions
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the rice to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until the rice is lightly toasted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
how to serve Mexican Rice
Serve Mexican Rice as a side dish with your favorite main courses. It pairs wonderfully with tacos, burritos, or grilled meats. You can also enjoy it on its own or top it with some avocado or cheese for extra flavor.
how to store Mexican Rice
To store leftover Mexican Rice, let it cool to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Mexican Rice
- Make sure to rinse the rice well before cooking to remove excess starch, which can make the rice sticky.
- For added flavor, sauté some bell peppers along with the onion.
- Adjust the spices based on your preference. If you like it spicier, you can add chopped jalapeños or more chili powder.
variation
For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add beans, corn, or diced bell peppers for extra texture and nutrients.
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid, as brown rice typically takes longer to cook and may need more broth.
2. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the broth you use is gluten-free, Mexican Rice is gluten-free.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
Mexican Rice
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Mexican Rice is a delicious and colorful dish that adds flavor to any meal and is perfect as a side dish for tacos, enchiladas, or grilled chicken.
Ingredients
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the rice to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until the rice is lightly toasted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Notes
Make sure to rinse the rice well before cooking to remove excess starch. For added flavor, sauté some bell peppers along with the onion.