If you're looking for a dish that's flavorful, satisfying, and easy to make, look no further than Mexican rice. This classic dish is a staple in Mexican cuisine, and for good reason. With its blend of aromatic spices, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice, it's the perfect accompaniment to any meal. In this article, we'll show you how to make authentic Mexican rice that's sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mexican Rice Recipe
Before we get started, let's take a look at the ingredients you'll need to make this delicious dish:
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Make sure to have all of these ingredients on hand before you start cooking.
For the Marinade Mexican Rice Recipe
There's no need to marinate the rice before cooking it. Instead, we'll be adding a flavorful blend of onions, garlic, and spices to the rice as it cooks.
Kitchen Tools Needed Mexican Rice Recipe
To make this recipe, you'll need a few basic kitchen tools:
- A medium-sized saucepan with a lid
- A wooden spoon or spatula
- A knife and cutting board
- A measuring cup and spoon
With these tools at your disposal, you'll be ready to start cooking!
How to Make Mexican Rice Recipe
Now that you have all of your ingredients and kitchen tools, it's time to start cooking. Follow these simple steps to make authentic Mexican rice:
- Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the onion and garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the rice to the pan and stir to coat it in the oil.
- Add the chicken broth, tomato sauce, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to the pan and stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid.
- Simmer the rice for 18-20 minutes, or until all of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the frozen peas and carrots and chopped cilantro.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
With these easy steps, you'll have a delicious and authentic Mexican rice dish that's sure to please.
How to Cook Mexican Rice Recipe
Cooking Mexican rice is easy, but it's important to follow a few key steps to ensure that your rice turns out perfectly. Here are a few tips for cooking Mexican rice:
- Use long-grain white rice for the best texture and flavor.
- Rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent it from becoming gummy.
- Sauté the onions and garlic before adding the rice to the pan to help release their flavors.
- Simmer the rice over low heat to allow it to absorb all of the liquid and cook evenly.
- Let the rice sit, covered, for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld and the rice to become tender.
By following these simple tips, you'll be able to make perfect Mexican rice every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
A: Yes, you can use brown rice instead of white rice. However, brown rice will take longer to cook and may require more liquid.
Q: Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
A: Yes, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if you prefer a vegetarian or vegan version of this dish.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
A: Yes, you can add other vegetables to this recipe if you like. Some good options include diced bell peppers, corn, or diced tomatoes.
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe in advance and reheat it when you're ready to serve. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Q: Can I freeze this recipe?
A: Yes, you can freeze this recipe if you like. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Q: How can I make this recipe spicier?
A: If you like your food spicy, you can add a diced jalapeño pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper to this recipe.
Q: What can I serve with Mexican rice?
A: Mexican rice is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of main dishes, such as grilled chicken, carne asada, or black beans.
Q: Can I make this recipe in a rice cooker?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe in a rice cooker. Simply follow the manufacturer's instructions for cooking rice and add the onion, garlic, and spices to the rice cooker along with the rice and liquid.
Q: How long will leftovers keep?
A: Leftovers will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.