Mexican rice—ah, the vibrant canvas of flavors that can transform any meal into a fiesta. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday afternoon or a rushed Wednesday night, the allure of that perfectly seasoned, fluffy rice is hard to resist. It’s like a warm hug from an old friend, comforting yet exciting with every bite—like the sudden thrill of finding a forgotten $20 bill in an old jacket pocket.
Steps
- Begin by heating three tablespoons of vegetable oil in a pan. Add one cup of uncooked long-grain rice to the oil, stirring until the rice is puffed and golden.
- Incorporate a chopped onion into the pan, cooking until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This will infuse the rice with additional flavor and texture.
- Pour in chicken broth and tomato sauce, stirring until well combined. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cover the pan and allow the rice to cook for about 20 minutes on low heat. Keep it covered to ensure the rice absorbs the liquid and achieves a fluffy texture.
- Once cooked, remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork before serving. Enjoy the Mexican rice as a side dish with your favorite meals.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- Garlic salt, to taste
- Ground cumin, to taste
- 1 onion, chopped
- Chicken broth, amount as needed
- Tomato sauce, amount as needed
FAQ
- What ingredients are needed to make Mexican rice?
- To prepare this Mexican rice, you’ll need vegetable oil, uncooked long-grain rice, garlic salt, ground cumin, a chopped onion, chicken broth, and tomato sauce.
- What is the basic method for cooking Mexican rice?
- Begin by seasoning the rice and cooking it in oil until it’s puffed and golden. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened. Then, stir in the broth and tomato sauce, bring it to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover, and let it cook for an additional 20 minutes.
- How should Mexican rice be stored and reheated?
- Keep leftover Mexican rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat either in the microwave or on the stove, adding a bit of broth if needed to prevent it from drying out.
- Can Mexican rice be customized with additional ingredients?
- Yes, you can add ingredients like green chilies, corn, and rinsed black beans for extra flavor. This rice pairs well with dishes like chicken bowls, tacos, and enchiladas.
- What are some common variations or additions to this recipe?
- Some people enjoy adding ingredients like cayenne pepper for extra spice or incorporating it into larger dishes with chicken, lettuce, salsa, cilantro, sour cream, and chips for a complete meal.
Tips
- To enhance the flavor, always use chicken broth instead of water when cooking the rice. This will prevent the dish from tasting bland.
- Consider customizing your Mexican rice by adding ingredients like green chilies, corn, and rinsed black beans. These additions can make the dish more versatile, perfect for bowls or as a standalone meal.
- If you find the rice drying out when reheating leftovers, mix in a splash of broth to maintain moisture and enhance the flavor.
- For an extra kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the recipe. This will give the rice a subtle heat without overwhelming the other flavors.
Equipment
- Rice Cooker or Saucepan with Lid: For cooking the rice. A rice cooker might be a convenient option.
- Non-Stick Skillet or Sauté Pan: For cooking the rice and onions in oil before adding the liquids.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To measure the rice, oil, broth, and seasonings accurately.
- Airtight Storage Containers: For storing leftover Mexican rice in the refrigerator.
