Marias Marvelous Mexican Rice
Fancy smashing out some proper Marias Mexican Rice This easy recipe delivers fluffy flavourful results every time Restaurantstyle without the fuss Get the recipe now ... Global Cuisine
Maria's Marvelous Mexican Rice : Restaurant Quality at Home!
Fancy a bit of Mexican cooking tonight? Honestly, who doesn't love a good Rice Side Dishes ? I'm sharing my version of Maria's Mexican Rice ; it's so easy and packed with flavour.
I think you'll find this to be a game-changer.
This Easy Mexican Rice recipe originates from the heart of Mexico. The dish represents a staple in many households. It's a simple side dish, yet bursting with flavour.
Ready in about 35 minutes, it serves 6 people.
This Ain't Your Average Mexican Rice
Let's talk benefits. This isn't just filler on the plate. The tomatoes in our Mexican Rice with Tomato Sauce are loaded with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.
I usually serve this Fluffy Mexican Rice with tacos on a Friday night. It's a proper crowd-pleaser. This version is special because we toast the rice properly for that extra nutty flavour.
Getting Started
Right, let's see what bits and bobs you'll need to whip up this Authentic Mexican Rice Recipe . We're using simple ingredients you can easily find.
Grab your saucepan, because we're about to make some magic, and start with one tablespoon of vegetable oil, one cup of long-grain white rice, and half a medium white onion, finely chopped, about 2 cloves of garlic, minced, and more.
Secret to Restaurant Style Mexican Rice
Now, I’ll let you in on a secret. Remember to toast the rice properly before adding the liquids. Don't be shy with the stirring.
It makes all the difference and gives this dish its signature nutty flavour. I learnt this from my dear aunt Maria, whom this recipe is named after.
Marias Marvelous Mexican Rice Recipe Card
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Let's Talk Ingredients & Equipment for Maria's Marvelous Mexican Rice!
Right then, let’s get down to brass tacks. What do you need to whip up some amazing Maria's Mexican Rice ? Honestly, it’s all pretty straightforward.
We're going for proper Restaurant Style Mexican Rice here, but dead easy to make.
Main Ingredients for the Authentic Mexican Rice Recipe :
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) vegetable oil – any kind will do, sunflower or even olive oil.
- 1 cup (200g) long-grain white rice – Don't rinse it, it's long-grain!
- 1/2 medium white onion, finely chopped (approx. 75g).
- 2 cloves garlic, minced. Make sure it is not burned!
- 1 1/2 cups (355ml) chicken broth. Low-sodium is my go-to, you know?
- 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce. Proper tomato sauce, not ketchup!
- 1 teaspoon chili powder.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste).
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
- Optional: Chopped cilantro, for garnish.
The rice should be long-grain. This helps it get nice and fluffy . And the broth? Use a good quality chicken broth. It makes a difference!
Seasoning like a Pro for the Best Homemade Mexican Rice
Cumin and chili powder are your base. They give that warm, earthy flavour. Don't be shy with the garlic either.
That's essential for Mexican Cooking . For a bit more kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Or even a finely diced jalapeno will do.
Honestly, it is great to have some variety when cooking Easy Mexican Rice , don't you think?
If you're missing chili powder, a mix of paprika and a tiny pinch of cayenne will do. Taste as you go, and adjust!
Gear Up! Your Equipment Checklist for Mexican Rice with Tomato Sauce
- Medium saucepan with a lid. That's key.
- Measuring cups and spoons. You need to get the right measurements.
- Cutting board.
- Chef's knife.
- Spatula.
If you don't have a fancy saucepan, don't stress! Any pot with a lid will do. If you don't have measuring cups, use a mug or even a small bowl.
Remember Rice Side Dishes are easy to make, don't over complicate it!.
Maria's Mexican Rice: Your New Favourite Sidekick
Fancy some Homemade Mexican Rice ? Honestly, I used to be proper rubbish at making rice. It was always either crunchy or a mushy, gluey mess.
Then my pal Maria shared her secret recipe. Now, Maria's Mexican Rice is a staple in our house. I promise, this Easy Mexican Rice recipe is so simple, even I can't mess it up!
Prep Like a Pro for Perfect Mexican Rice
First things first: mise en place , darling! Get everything chopped and measured. Chop 1/2 a medium white onion (about 75g) and mince 2 cloves of garlic.
Measure out 1 cup (200g) of long-grain white rice, 1 1/2 cups (355ml) chicken broth, and 1 cup (240ml) of tomato sauce.
Get your spices ready: 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon of cumin, and 1/4 teaspoon each of salt and pepper.
It's a bit of a faff, but it makes the cooking so much easier.
From Hob to Heaven: Making Authentic Mexican Rice Recipe
- Heat 1 tablespoon (15ml) of vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until they're softened, about 3 minutes .
- Add the rice and toast, stirring constantly, until lightly golden brown, around 5 minutes . Don't skip this! This is where the flavor really pops.
- Stir in the chicken broth, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes .
- Remove from heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes .
- Fluff with a fork and serve. Garnish with chopped cilantro if you're feeling fancy. Boom! Restaurant Style Mexican Rice at home.
Secret Hacks for Fluffy Mexican Rice
Want to level up your Mexican Cooking ? Toasting the rice properly is the key. Honestly, don't peek while it's simmering! Resist that temptation.
It lets out the steam and messes up the cooking. Instead of tomato sauce, use tomato paste mixed with water if you don't have it!
Right, I'm off to make a batch of Mexican Rice with Tomato Sauce . You should too! It's the perfect Rice Side Dish . Ta-ra for now!
Recipe Notes: Ace Your Maria's Mexican Rice !
Right then, let's chat about getting this Maria's Mexican Rice absolutely spot on. Honestly, it's easier than making a cuppa, but a few pointers never hurt, eh? We want Fluffy Mexican Rice , not a soggy mess!
How to Serve Your Brilliant Mexican Rice
Fancy plating? A simple bowl does the trick, or get a bit cheffy. A sprig of cilantro is always a nice touch.
This Rice Side Dishes is banging with tacos, enchiladas. It’s also great with grilled chicken, or even fish. For drinks, try a refreshing agua fresca or an ice-cold beer.
The slight acidity in both will make the Food Mexican explode.
Storing Your Leftover Homemade Mexican Rice
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Pop it in an airtight container and it'll be good in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing is an option. Just portion it out, let it cool completely, and freeze for up to a month. Reheating? Microwave it with a splash of water, or gently heat it on the hob.
Make sure it is steaming hot.
Variations for the Adventurous Mexican Cooking
Want to mix it up? For a spicier kick, chuck in a finely diced jalapeño with the onions and garlic.
Or, fancy a bit of sunshine? Add a handful of sweetcorn kernels. For a Authentic Mexican Rice Recipe with slight healthy changes, sub in brown rice.
Just remember to adjust the cooking time and add a bit more liquid. It’s easy!
Mexican Rice with Tomato Sauce : A Few Health Nudges
Okay, so this isn't exactly a salad, but it's not all bad! The tomatoes give you a bit of vitamin C, and it's a good source of carbs for energy.
Just watch the sodium, especially if you're using shop-bought broth. And hey, portion control is your friend!
Honestly, this Easy Mexican Rice is a winner. With a bit of practice, you'll be whipping up Restaurant Style Mexican Rice in no time! Get in the kitchen and give it a go – you won't regret it.
You'll create a fantastic Mexican Rice with Tomato Sauce without any effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is toasting the rice so important in Maria's Mexican Rice recipe?
Toasting the rice before simmering it in the broth is absolutely crucial! Think of it like giving your rice a sun tan – it brings out a lovely nutty flavor that you just won't get otherwise. It also helps the rice grains stay separate and fluffy, rather than clumping together like a soggy Sunday.
Can I make Maria's Mexican Rice vegetarian?
Absolutely, turning Maria's Mexican Rice into a vegetarian delight is a doddle! Simply swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth – it's a one-for-one substitution. You'll still get all the lovely savory flavors from the tomato and spices, but without any animal products. It’s as easy as pie!
How do I store leftover Maria's Mexican Rice?
Storing leftover rice safely is important, so you don't end up with a dodgy tummy! Let the rice cool down a bit (but don't leave it out for longer than an hour), then pop it into an airtight container and straight into the fridge. It'll keep happily for 3-4 days. When reheating, make sure it's piping hot all the way through to avoid any food poisoning nasties, alright?
My Maria's Mexican Rice turned out mushy. What went wrong?
Mushy rice is a common kitchen woe, but easily avoided! The most likely culprit is using too much liquid. Make sure you're using the correct ratio of rice to broth and resist the urge to peek under the lid while it's simmering, as this releases steam. Another tip is to give the rice a proper rest (covered) after cooking; this allows any remaining steam to finish the job without making it gloppy.
Can I spice up Maria's Mexican Rice? I like a bit of a kick!
Right you are! If you're after some extra heat, there are a couple of cracking ways to add a kick to Maria's Mexican Rice. You could add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the other spices, or finely dice a jalapeño pepper and sauté it with the onion and garlic at the start. Adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance, and remember, a little goes a long way!
Is Maria's Mexican Rice healthy? What are the nutritional considerations?
Maria’s Mexican Rice can be a part of a balanced diet, but it's good to be aware of the nutritional content. It provides carbohydrates for energy, but be mindful of the sodium levels, particularly in the chicken broth and tomato sauce - check the labels and opt for lower-sodium options if you're watching your salt intake. You can also bump up the nutritional value by adding veggies like peas or corn!
