Uncle Ben'S Mexican Rice
A flavorful Mexican rice dish seasoned with taco spices, jalapenos, and cumin, perfect as a side for tacos, burritos, or family dinners craving bold, spicy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the rice with taco seasoning, cayenne red pepper, dry bell pepper, onion, ground cumin, and chopped jalapeno until done, about 20 to 30 minutes.
- Let the rice simmer until all the water is absorbed.
- Allow the rice to sit out in another container or casserole dish for a while before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding more cayenne or a splash of Hot Picante Sauce. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the jalapeno and cayenne. You can also substitute the rice with quinoa for a healthier twist. Ensure to sauté the onions and bell pepper before adding them to the rice for enhanced flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this flavorful rice alongside grilled chicken or beef for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Salsa Fresca (Fresh Salsa) or a side of Mexican Vegetable Salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also top it with sliced avocado or serve it as a filling for burritos or tacos.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Mexican rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, sprinkle a little water over the rice and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This helps prevent the rice from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Uncle Ben'S Mexican Rice contains roughly 91 calories, with 3g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (58% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rice ahead of time. Cook it as directed and let it cool before storing it in the refrigerator. This dish can be made a day in advance, and the flavors may even improve as they meld together.
What can I add to make it more filling?
To make this Mexican rice more filling, consider adding black beans or corn into the mix during cooking. These additions provide protein and fiber, making the dish heartier and more satisfying without compromising on flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This Mexican rice is perfect for meal prep. It stores well and can be easily reheated. Divide it into portions and pair with proteins or veggies for balanced meals throughout the week.
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).