Mexicana Rice
A flavorful Mexican-inspired rice dish with sausage, spices, tomato sauce, and dried currants, topped with chopped peanuts for a crunchy finish. Perfect for hearty family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook the sausage meat over medium heat until browned and cooked through.
- Add the chopped onion, mashed garlic, and diced celery; cook until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in chopped parsley, raw rice, cumin powder, and chili powder; cook for 2-3 minutes to toast the spices and rice.
- Pour in the condensed tomato soup and water; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in dried currants and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, topped with chopped peanuts for added texture.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using turkey sausage instead of regular sausage meat. You can also substitute brown rice for white rice for added nutrition; just adjust the cooking time accordingly. To enhance flavor, add a splash of lime juice or some diced jalapeños for heat. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of Tortilla Stack to soak up the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Mexicana Rice hot, garnished with chopped peanuts for added crunch. It pairs well with a fresh green salad or some grilled vegetables on the side. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Turkey Tacos or Chorizo Burritos to create a Mexican feast that everyone will enjoy.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to prevent the rice from drying out, and heat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. This makes for a quick and easy meal option throughout the week.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexicana Rice contains roughly 644 calories, with 24g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (114% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (106% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (58% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1607mg per serving (70% 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 a different type of sausage for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of sausage you prefer, such as chicken or turkey sausage for a healthier option. Just ensure it is fully cooked before adding it to the skillet.
What can I substitute for dried currants?
If you don't have dried currants, raisins or chopped dried apricots can be great substitutes. They will add a similar sweetness and texture to the dish.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage or omit it entirely. Increase the amount of vegetables and consider adding beans for protein to keep it hearty and satisfying.
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).