Mexican Rice(From Mexico)
Mexican rice is a flavorful side dish featuring golden rice simmered in a tomato and garlic sauce, perfect for complementing Mexican and Latin American meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a food processor or blender, puree the tomatoes and garlic.
- Add enough hot water to make 4 cups and include 2 or 3 chicken bouillon cubes; set aside.
- In a heavy saucepan, heat the oil and cook the rice until golden brown.
- Pour off excess oil from the rice.
- Add the tomato mixture and salt to the rice, and bring to a boil.
- Cut the onion into fourths and place it on top of the rice.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or corn to the rice while cooking. If fresh tomatoes are not available, canned diced tomatoes can work as a substitute. Adjust the amount of chicken bouillon based on your salt preference. To enhance the dish, you might also experiment with spices like cumin or chili powder, which can complement many Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Mexican rice as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats, such as Southwestern Style Meat Or Fajitas, or pair it with beans for a vegetarian meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro or lime wedges for added flavor. This rice also works well as a base for burrito bowls or as a filler in tacos.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the Mexican rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the rice and cover it with a damp paper towel, then microwave until heated through, or warm it gently on the stovetop to retain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Rice(From Mexico) contains roughly 1393 calories, with 10g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 125g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value), iron (16% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1087mg per serving (47% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, but be aware that it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Typically, brown rice takes about 40-45 minutes to cook, so adjust the water and cooking duration accordingly.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make the Mexican rice vegan, simply omit the chicken bouillon cubes or substitute with vegetable bouillon. You can also enhance the flavor with additional spices and use vegetable oil instead of any animal-based oils.
What other dishes go well with Mexican rice?
Mexican rice pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it alongside Chicken Green Chile Stew or tacos for a complete meal. It also complements salads and salsas, adding a filling element that balances lighter fare.
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).