18 Mexican Rice Recipe Delight In These Amazing Recipes!

Ingredients

To make a delicious Mexican rice, you will need the following ingredients:

1. Rice

The main ingredient in Mexican rice is, of course, rice. You can use any type of long-grain rice, such as basmati or jasmine, for this recipe. It is important to rinse the rice before cooking to remove any excess starch, which can make the rice sticky.

2. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are the base of the tomato sauce used in Mexican rice. You can use either fresh, ripe tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes. If using fresh tomatoes, make sure to remove the seeds and chop them into small pieces.

3. Onion and Garlic

Onion and garlic are the key flavor enhancers in this dish. They add a savory and slightly sweet taste to the rice. Make sure to finely chop the onion and mince the garlic before adding them to the dish.

4. Spices

The spices used in Mexican rice are what give it its distinct and delicious flavor. The most commonly used spices are cumin, chili powder, and paprika. You can also add a pinch of oregano for an extra kick of flavor.

5. Chicken or Vegetable Broth

To cook the rice, you will need a liquid base. You can use either chicken or vegetable broth for this recipe. If using chicken broth, make sure to use low-sodium to avoid the dish becoming too salty.

6. Mixed Vegetables

While not a traditional ingredient, adding mixed vegetables to the Mexican rice recipe is a great way to add some extra nutrition and color to the dish. You can use frozen mixed vegetables or chop up some fresh vegetables like bell peppers and carrots.

Instructions

Now that you have all the ingredients, here are the steps to make a perfect batch of Mexican rice:

1. Prepare the Rice

Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh sieve until the water runs clear. This will help remove any excess starch and prevent the rice from becoming sticky. Once rinsed, let the rice drain for a few minutes before cooking.

2. Make the Tomato Sauce

In a large saucepan, heat some vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook until they become translucent. Then, add the tomatoes, spices, and a pinch of salt. Let the mixture cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes start to break down.

3. Add the Rice and Broth

Once the tomato mixture has cooked down, add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat it with the sauce. Then, add the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the rice simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed.

4. Add the Vegetables

If using mixed vegetables, add them to the rice about 5 minutes before the end of the cooking time. Stir them in gently and let them cook with the rice until they are heated through.

5. Fluff and Serve

Once all the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is fully cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat. Use a fork to fluff the rice and mix in the vegetables, if using. Serve hot as a side dish or add protein such as chicken or beef to make it a main course.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Mexican rice is a delicious and versatile dish that is easy to make at home. With the right combination of ingredients and spices, you can create a flavorful and authentic version of this classic Mexican dish. So next time you are craving some Mexican cuisine, give this recipe a try and impress your family and friends with your cooking skills!