Mexican Rice Recipe: Mexican rice is a flavorful and healthy rice-based side dish popular in Mexico and Spain. In India, it’s often enjoyed as a main dish or in lunch boxes. Similar to vegetable pulao, it pairs well with raita or spicy curry. What sets it apart is the use of broth or vegetable stock, giving it a distinct taste. While traditionally made with chicken stock and meat, this recipe caters to vegetarians.
Ingredients: Mexican Rice Recipe
- 2 tbsp oil
- 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- 1 tomato, chopped
- ½ capsicum, chopped
- 2 tbsp carrot, chopped
- 2 tbsp corn
- 2 tbsp peas
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 2 cups vegetable stock / water
- 1 tsp crushed pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp coriander, finely chopped
Instructions: Mexican Rice Recipe
- Heat 2 tbsp oil in a pan and roast 1 cup of basmati rice until golden brown and fragrant.
- Add ½ onion, 1 chopped tomato, ½ chopped capsicum, 2 tbsp chopped carrot, 2 tbsp corn, 2 tbsp peas, and 3 cloves of finely chopped garlic. Sauté for 2 minutes until the vegetables slightly shrink.
- Pour in 2 cups of vegetable stock or water. Season with 1 tsp crushed pepper and ½ tsp salt. Bring to a boil over high heat.
- Once boiling, cover and simmer for 20 minutes until the rice is fully cooked.
- After 20 minutes, gently stir the rice without breaking the grains. Cover and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh lemon and coriander before serving.
- This Mexican rice recipe offers a unique twist with its vegetarian ingredients and flavorful broth, making it a delightful dish for any meal.
Conclusion:
Mexican Rice Recipe offers versatility and rich flavor, making it suitable for enjoyment as either a side dish or a main course. With its unique blend of spices, vegetables, and broth, it offers a delightful culinary experience. Whether you’re a vegetarian or meat-eater, you can customize this dish to suit your taste preferences. So, gather your ingredients and give this delicious recipe a try for your next meal!
FAQs about Mexican Rice Recipe
What makes Mexican rice different from other rice dishes?
Mexican rice stands out thanks to its incorporation of tomato or tomato puree, coupled with broth or vegetable stock, imparting a distinctive flavor profile unmatched by other rice-based dishes.
Can I make Mexican rice with brown rice instead of basmati rice?
Yes, you can substitute basmati rice with brown rice to make the dish healthier. However, the cooking time may vary, so adjust accordingly.
What are the essential vegetables for Mexican rice?
Bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, and corn are commonly used vegetables in Mexican rice. However, you can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables like carrots, peas, or beans.
Is Mexican rice suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it uses vegetable stock instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables or protein sources like beans to make it a complete meal.
Can I adjust the spiciness of Mexican rice according to my preference?
Absolutely! You can control the spice level by adjusting the amount of jalapeno peppers or adding other chili varieties. You can also serve it with hot sauce or chili flakes on the side for those who prefer extra heat.
