Arroz Mexicano
A flavorful Mexican-inspired rice dish with corn, cheese, and creamy toppings, perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings, offering rich textures and bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the brown rice in hot water for 10-30 minutes, then drain, rinse in cold water, and drain again.
- Heat corn oil until boiling and cook the garlic cloves at the same time.
- When the oil is boiling, add the rice and chopped onion; fry until the rice starts popping, then drain excess oil.
- Add milk, corn kernels, toasted jalapenos, Mexican chicken bouillon, and 6 cups of boiling water to the rice mixture.
- Cook until the water is absorbed, about 15-20 minutes.
- Mix in grated Munster cheese and whipping cream.
- Pour the mixture into a heavily buttered baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of water for cooking the rice. If you can't find Munster cheese, Monterey Jack or a mild cheddar can work well as substitutes. Toasted jalapenos can be replaced with fresh jalapenos for a milder taste or omitted entirely for a non-spicy version. This dish pairs beautifully with Chicken Ranchero for a delightful meal.
Serving Suggestions
This arroz mexicano makes a fantastic side dish for grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a main dish. Consider serving it alongside salsa-topped chicken breasts or fajitas (Texas style) for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro or lime wedges for added freshness, and pair with a crisp salad to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the arroz mexicano in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You can also bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Arroz Mexicano contains roughly 774 calories, with 12g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (135% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1118mg per serving (49% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use white rice instead of brown rice for this recipe?
Yes, you can use white rice, but be aware that cooking times may vary. White rice typically cooks faster than brown rice, so adjust the water and cooking time accordingly, usually around 12-15 minutes instead of 15-20 minutes.
Is it necessary to soak the rice before cooking?
Soaking the rice helps to soften it and reduces cooking time. While it's not strictly necessary, it can improve the texture of the final dish. If you're short on time, you can skip this step, but rinsing the rice thoroughly is still recommended.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking stage, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, just pop it in the oven and bake until heated through and the cheese is melted.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).