15-Minute Mexican Fried Rice Recipe
In the delightful realm of quick and flavorful meals, this 15-Minute Mexican Fried Rice stands out as a vibrant and delicious dish that can transform any ordinary dinner into a festive culinary celebration. Perfectly suited for busy weeknights or a spontaneous get-together with friends, this recipe combines the aromatic goodness of spices with the satisfying texture of fluffy basmati rice. Let’s embark on a culinary journey that promises both convenience and flavor, ensuring that your dinner table is adorned with a colorful and appetizing dish.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Basmati rice (cooked, leftovers preferred) | 2 cups |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Tomato (chopped) | 1 |
| Whole black peppercorns (frozen and thawed) | 1 cup |
| Garlic (minced) | 1 clove |
| Green chilies (chopped) | 2 |
| Cumin powder (jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Red chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Paprika powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black pepper powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 60g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Total Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 200mg |
Preparation Time
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 5 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 15 minutes |
| Servings | 2 |
Instructions
To commence the preparation of this delectable 15-Minute Mexican Fried Rice, begin by heating 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a spacious skillet or wok over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers invitingly, introduce the finely chopped onion into the pan, allowing it to sauté for a couple of minutes until it becomes soft and translucent, releasing its sweet aroma into the air.
Following this, add the chopped tomato, thawed black peppercorns, and chopped green chilies into the skillet. Allow this vibrant mixture to cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking and to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Next, it’s time to infuse the dish with flavor by adding the minced garlic along with all the spices: cumin powder, red chili powder, paprika powder, black pepper powder, and a pinch of salt to taste. Cook this fragrant mixture until the garlic turns a lovely golden brown, which typically takes about 1 to 2 minutes. This step enhances the overall flavor profile, creating a wonderful aroma that whets the appetite.
Once the garlic is golden, drizzle in another tablespoon of olive oil for added richness and then carefully fold in the pre-cooked basmati rice. Ensure that each grain of rice is coated with the enticing mixture, stirring gently but thoroughly for another 3 to 4 minutes. The goal here is to heat the rice through while allowing it to absorb the lovely flavors of the spices and the sautéed vegetables.
As you reach the final stages of preparation, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, ensuring that the rice is perfectly flavored to your liking. When ready, serve the 15-Minute Mexican Fried Rice hot, perhaps garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime for an extra zing.
This delightful dish pairs wonderfully with Spinach and Cheese Enchiladas and a robust Mexican Chicken Stew, creating a perfect trifecta for a memorable weekend dinner. Gather your friends and family, and enjoy this quick yet flavor-packed meal that embodies the essence of Mexican cuisine with every bite.
Enjoy Your Meal!
As you dive into this dish, relish the medley of flavors, the warmth of the spices, and the delightful textures that make this quick recipe not just a meal, but an experience filled with love and joy. Happy cooking!
