Central American Rice
Central American Rice is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines the aromatic essence of sautéed onions and ripe tomatoes with the heartiness of rice. Perfect as a side or a main dish, it complements any meal with its savory chicken bouillon and subtle garlic notes, appealing to families and gatherings alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion in oil.
- Add rice; stir constantly for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add water, tomato, garlic powder, and bouillon cubes (that have been dissolved in the water).
- Reduce heat and cover.
- Let simmer for 15 minutes.
- Let set a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using vegetable broth instead of water or incorporating fresh herbs like cilantro. If you don't have bouillon cubes, you can use a teaspoon of salt or a homemade dry mix (Oriental Rice). Be sure to rinse your rice before cooking to remove excess starch for a fluffier texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Central American Rice as a flavorful side dish with grilled meats or alongside a salad for a light meal. It pairs beautifully with Chicken Kiev or can be a base for a hearty bowl with your favorite vegetables. For a complete dinner, consider serving it with Amie'S French Country Chicken.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water and heat in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Central American Rice contains roughly 699 calories, with 18g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (37% of the Daily Value), iron (28% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1371mg per serving (60% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time and more water. Generally, brown rice needs about 40-45 minutes to cook, so adjust the water and cooking time accordingly.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sautéed onions. You can also serve the finished dish with hot sauce for those who enjoy an extra kick.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken bouillon cubes and use vegetable broth instead. This will maintain the flavor while making it suitable for vegetarians. You can also add mushrooms or bell peppers for additional texture and taste.
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).