Easy Mexican Rice

Mexican Rice: A Flavorful Side Dish That’s Easier Than You Think

Mexican rice is a staple side dish in many Latin American cuisines. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This recipe uses simple ingredients and is easy to follow, making it perfect for beginner cooks.

What is Mexican Rice?

Mexican rice is a savory rice dish that is typically flavored with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices like cumin and oregano. It often includes a touch of heat from chili powder or jalapeños. The rice is cooked in broth, which infuses it with flavor and keeps it moist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, with simple steps and minimal prep time.

Flavorful: The combination of tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices creates a delicious and aromatic dish.

Versatile: Mexican rice pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes, from tacos and burritos to enchiladas and fajitas.

Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more or less chili powder or jalapeños.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained

1 cup long-grain rice

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon black pepper

1 1/2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth

Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add Garlic and Spices: Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in Tomatoes and Rice: Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), rice, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Bring to a Boil: Pour the chicken or vegetable broth into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.
5. Simmer and Cover: Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
6. Fluff and Serve: Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and let it stand for 5 minutes with the lid on. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Tips and Variations

Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for extra heat.

Add Some Veggies: Stir in some frozen corn, peas, or chopped bell peppers along with the rice.

Make it Cheesy: Stir in some shredded cheese, such as Monterey Jack or cheddar, during the last few minutes of cooking.

Use Different Broth: For a richer flavor, try using chicken or vegetable broth instead of water.

Make it Ahead: Mexican rice can be made ahead of time and reheated later. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions

Mexican rice is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are a few ideas:

Tacos and Burritos: Serve Mexican rice alongside your favorite taco fillings, such as ground beef, chicken, or fish.

Enchiladas: Spoon a generous amount of Mexican rice into each enchilada before baking.

Fajitas: Serve Mexican rice alongside grilled fajitas, along with your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and salsa.

Quesadillas: Fill your quesadillas with Mexican rice, cheese, and your favorite veggies.

Salads: Add a scoop of Mexican rice to your favorite salad for an extra dose of flavor and protein.

Nutritional Information

(Per serving)

Calories: 180

Protein: 4g

Fat: 2g

Carbohydrates: 35g

Fiber: 1g

Disclaimer:

This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Conclusion

Mexican rice is a simple yet flavorful side dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant colors and delicious taste, it’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So next time you’re looking for an easy and delicious side dish, give this Mexican rice recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!

Keywords:

Mexican rice, recipe, easy, flavorful, side dish,