Quick Easy Mexican Rice Fiesta in 30 Minutes
Recipe Introduction
Fancy a fiesta in your mouth? Ever get that craving for something south of the border? Then you are at the right place, and honestly, who doesn't love Quick & Easy Mexican Rice ? It is the stuff of dreams! This recipe is packed with flavour and so simple to whip up.
This is a classic side dish, gracing tables from Mexico City to Middlesbrough, although I bet it's not that common there.
This recipe is rated Easy , only takes about 30 minutes, and yields about six servings. Perfect for family dinners or a cheeky midweek treat.
Unlock the Secret: Why This Rice Rocks
What makes this recipe so special? It's more than just convenience. The cumin and chili powder create a warm, comforting flavour.
It is also a brilliant source of carbohydrates for energy. I reckon it goes particularly well with tacos.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavour
Here is a peek at what you need. Don't worry, you probably have most of it already.
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup of long grain white rice
- 1/4 cup of finely chopped yellow onion
- 1 clove of minced garlic
- 1 1/2 cups of chicken broth
- 1/2 cup of tomato sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon of cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon of chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional extras: 1/4 cup of thawed frozen peas and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh cilantro.
Sounds good, right? I tell you what, this Easy Mexican Rice Recipe will become your go-to side. You will make it so often, you'll practically dream about it! Plus, it is much better than anything you can buy from a takeaway.
It may even be healthier than a Greggs sausage roll.
So, let's get cooking! Are you ready to make some magic? Get those ingredients ready, and let's get this party started! Stay tuned for the step-by-step guide.
Trust me, you are going to love it.
Ingredients & Equipment for Cracking Quick & Easy Mexican Rice
Alright, let's talk ingredients! Making Simple Mexican Rice isn't hard. I promise. It needs good stuff, though. Like any proper meal, innit? My nan always said quality in, quality out! Let's get started, yeah?
Main Ingredients Breakdown
Here's what you need, laid out nice and clear. Measurements are key, so pay attention.
- Vegetable oil: 1 tablespoon ( 15 ml ). Any neutral oil works, like sunflower.
- Long grain white rice: 1/2 cup ( 100g ). Don't rinse it!
- Yellow onion: 1/4 cup , finely chopped ( 40g ). Go for a sweet onion if you can.
- Garlic: 1 clove , minced. Roughly 1 teaspoon , but fresh is always best!
- Chicken broth: 1 1/2 cups ( 360ml ). Low-sodium is your friend, honestly.
- Tomato sauce: 1/2 cup ( 120ml ). Nothing fancy, just basic tomato sauce.
- Cumin: 1/2 teaspoon ( 2.5ml ). Smells amazing, right?
- Chili powder: 1/4 teaspoon ( 1.25ml ). Adds a bit of warmth, not too much heat.
- Salt and pepper: To taste. Go easy on the salt to start.
- Optional: Frozen peas: 1/4 cup , thawed ( 40g ). Adds a pop of color, doesn't it?
- Optional: Fresh cilantro: 2 tablespoons , chopped. For garnish, looks dead posh!
Speaking from experience, proper rice makes a massive difference! You want long grain because it gets all fluffy and proper nice. I've tried it with short grain once, total disaster. Mush city!
Seasoning Secrets for Easy Spanish Rice
Spices are the heart of this Easy Mexican Rice Recipe . Cumin and chili powder create that classic flavour. I usually add a pinch of smoked paprika, too, just because.
It’s my little secret!
Don't have chili powder? Use a mix of paprika, oregano, and a tiny bit of cayenne. If you want a richer flavour, use puréed tomatoes.
Equipment: Bare Essentials Only
Right, onto the kit. You don't need a load of fancy stuff. Just a few basics to make Simple Spanish Rice Recipe .
- Medium saucepan with a lid. Make sure it fits properly.
- Measuring cups and spoons. Gotta be precise, innit?
- Cutting board. Don't chop on the counter, yeah?
- Chef’s knife (or similar). Needs to be sharp!
A wooden spoon is handy for stirring, but a normal spoon will do. Honestly, I've even used a spatula in a pinch. Remember, we’re going for easy here!
Let's Get This Rice Rolling!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a bit of Quick & Easy Mexican Rice ? It's like a warm hug in a bowl, and this recipe? It's so simple, even I can't mess it up and trust me, that's saying something.
The aim is to create a Simple Spanish Rice that tastes like you've been slaving over a hot stove for hours, when really, it is ready in just about 30 minutes.
This Easy Mexican Rice Recipe is perfect when you fancy a restaurant style Mexican rice at home.
Prep Steps: Operation Mise en Place
Okay, first things first: let’s get organized. The secret to pulling this off is the mise en place . Chop 1/4 cup yellow onion , mince 1 clove garlic , and measure out 1/2 cup rice, 1 1/2 cups chicken broth, 1/2 cup tomato sauce, 1/2 teaspoon cumin and 1/4 teaspoon chili powder .
Get those frozen peas and cilantro ready too. Having everything prepped saves time and reduces the risk of burning the garlic.
Mexican Rice: Cooking Like a Pro
Ready to cook some magic? Here's how:
- Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in your saucepan over medium heat.
- Sauté that onion until softened, about 3 minutes . Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds . Watch it like a hawk, no burnt garlic here!
- Stir in the rice and cook until lightly toasted, around 2 minutes . This step is a game changer!
- Pour in your broth and tomato sauce. Then, add in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes .
- Remove from heat, keep covered, and let stand for 5 minutes .
- Fluff with a fork and garnish with peas and cilantro if you're feeling fancy.
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Rice
Want to really nail this? First, toasting the rice is key! It adds flavour and texture. Also, remember low and slow! Simmering on low heat prevents burning and ensures even cooking.
Oh, and here is a little confession: I once tried to rush this recipe and ended up with crunchy rice.
Not my finest moment!
Recipe Notes for Your Quick & Easy Mexican Rice
Right then, let's have a chinwag about some little secrets and twists for this Quick & Easy Mexican Rice recipe.
This isn't just your average side dish, it's a flavour bomb waiting to happen! Let's dive in, shall we?
Serving Suggestions That'll Make You Say "Ole!"
Fancy making your plate look like it came straight out of a magazine? Well, here's how. Plating your Simple Spanish Rice is a doddle.
First, mound it up nicely. Then, sprinkle some fresh coriander (cilantro for our American mates) on top. It’s the culinary equivalent of putting on your best frock!
This rice is screaming out to be paired with some grilled chicken or fish. It’s also the perfect filling for burritos or enchiladas.
Don't forget a dollop of sour cream or guac and a side of refried beans. For drinks, a refreshing Paloma is spot on.
Honestly, it is the best partner in crime. You know?
Storage Tips for Future Feasts
Got leftovers? No worries! This Easy Mexican Rice Recipe keeps like a dream.
Refrigeration: Pop it in an airtight container and it’ll be good for up to 4 days . Make sure it's properly cooled down first, mind you!
Freezing: Yep, you can freeze it too! Just portion it out into freezer bags or containers. It'll keep for up to 3 months . Just remember to label it with the date!
Reheating: When you're ready to eat, simply microwave it until piping hot. You might need to add a splash of water if it looks a bit dry. Easy peasy!
Variations to Suit Every Palate
Want to spice things up or cater for dietary needs? No sweat! Let's talk about some cool variations.
Vegetarian Delight: Just swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. Boom! Instant vegetarian friendly dish.
Spicy Rice: Want some extra kick? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño with the onion and garlic.
Nutrition Basics Goodness in Every Grain
Okay, let's talk about what you're actually putting in your body. One serving of this Simple Mexican Rice is about 130 calories.
You get 3g of protein, 3g of fat, and 23g of carbs. It's a pretty balanced side, innit? This Mexican Rice side dish is also a great source of energy, thanks to the carbs.
The tomatoes and spices offer a bit of vitamin C and antioxidants too.
This recipe is so easy . So, get in the kitchen and give it a whirl. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a complete beginner, you'll nail it.
Have fun, experiment with those flavors, and enjoy every mouthful!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Quick & Easy Mexican Rice ahead of time?
Absolutely! Quick & Easy Mexican Rice is great for meal prepping. Simply cook the rice according to the instructions, let it cool completely, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to rehydrate it, much like warming up leftovers from a Sunday roast.
What if I don't have chicken broth? What can I substitute in this Mexican rice recipe?
No worries, mate! You can easily substitute vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian, or even water in a pinch. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as broth tends to add more flavour. Adding a little extra salt or a bouillon cube can help boost the flavour profile if using water.
My Mexican rice is always mushy. What am I doing wrong?
Mushy rice is a common culinary conundrum! First, make sure you're toasting the rice before adding the liquid this step is crucial for preventing it from getting sticky. Second, resist the urge to lift the lid while it's simmering, and ensure you use the correct rice to liquid ratio.
Finally, letting it rest covered after cooking allows the rice to fully absorb the remaining moisture, resulting in perfectly fluffy grains. It's all about patience, like queuing for a cup of tea!
How can I make this Quick & Easy Mexican Rice spicier?
Fancy adding a bit of a kick? There are a few ways to turn up the heat in your Quick & Easy Mexican Rice. You could add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce along with the other spices.
Alternatively, finely dice a jalapeño pepper and sauté it with the onion and garlic at the beginning. Just remember to remove the seeds for less heat, unless you’re feeling brave!
Can I freeze this Mexican rice, and how long does it last?
Yes, you can definitely freeze this Mexican rice! Allow the rice to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer safe container or zip-top bag. It will last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
When you're ready to use it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or microwave it from frozen with a splash of water or broth to rehydrate it.
Is this Quick & Easy Mexican Rice recipe healthy? What about the nutritional information?
This recipe can be part of a balanced diet, and the nutritional information is provided in the recipe description above. To make it even healthier, use brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber. Also, use low-sodium broth to control the salt content and load up on the veggies.
Consider adding ingredients like corn, black beans, or bell peppers to increase the vitamin and mineral content. Remember that nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on ingredient choices.
Quick Easy Mexican Rice Fiesta In 30 Minutes
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 130 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 3g |
| Fiber | 1g |
