Mexican Rice Recipe

Ingredients:

1/4 c oil

1 1/2 c white rice

2 cloves garlic minced

1/2 small onion

1 fresh tomato puréed

2 tsp tomato bullion

1 carrot

1/2 cup peas

3 c water

1 jalapeño whole

Instructions:

Rinse rice and set aside

Heat oil in large pan, add rice until just starting to brown then add jalapeño and onion. Cook until rice is nicely browned then add garlic.

Cook until fragrant then add puréed tomato, tomato bouillon, salt to taste, carrots, peas and water.

Bring to boil, then cover, reduce heat to low and cook 20 minutes or until water is absorbed.

Remove from heat to rest for about five minutes before fluffing with a fork. Enjoy!

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this recipe?

While white rice is traditionally used in Mexican rice, you can certainly substitute brown rice for a healthier option.

Keep in mind that brown rice typically requires a longer cooking time and more liquid compared to white rice.

Is there a substitute for tomato bullion if I don’t have it?

If you don’t have tomato bullion on hand, you can substitute it with an equal amount of tomato paste or tomato sauce.

Alternatively, you can use vegetable or chicken broth for added flavor.

Can I make this recipe without using jalapeño?

Yes, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit the jalapeño from the recipe.

Alternatively, you can remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño to reduce its heat level.

How long does it take to cook Mexican rice?

After bringing the rice mixture to a boil and covering it, it typically takes about 20 minutes for the rice to cook and for the water to be absorbed.

However, cooking times may vary slightly depending on factors such as the type of rice used and the heat level.

Can I add other vegetables to this Mexican rice recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and you can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, corn, or diced tomatoes.

Just be mindful of the cooking time needed for the additional vegetables and adjust accordingly.

What can I use instead of a jalapeño if I want to reduce the heat?

If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute the jalapeño with a milder chili pepper like poblano or Anaheim.

You can also remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño to reduce its spiciness.

Can I make this recipe without peas and carrots?

Yes, you can omit the peas and carrots if you prefer or substitute them with other vegetables such as bell peppers, corn, or diced tomatoes.

How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the pan?

To prevent the rice from sticking to the pan, make sure to stir it occasionally while it’s browning and cooking.

You can also add a bit more oil if needed.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Mexican rice ahead of time and reheat it before serving.

Store the cooked rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Can I freeze leftover Mexican rice?

Yes, you can freeze leftover Mexican rice in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I serve with Mexican rice?

Mexican rice pairs well with a variety of dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, grilled chicken, or beef fajitas.

It’s also delicious on its own as a side dish.

How can I add more flavor to Mexican rice?

You can enhance the flavor of Mexican rice by adding spices like cumin, smoked paprika, or chili powder.

You can also stir in fresh cilantro or lime juice before serving for a burst of freshness.

Can I make this recipe in a rice cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a rice cooker. Simply follow the same steps for sautéing the rice and vegetables in a skillet, then transfer everything to the rice cooker along with the water and cook according to the rice cooker’s instructions.