Ortega’s Mexican Rice ๐๐ถ๏ธ
Overview:
Ortega’s Mexican Rice is a delightful dish that captures the vibrant flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine. Bursting with the goodness of long grain rice, vegetables, and spices, this recipe is a perfect accompaniment to any Mexican-inspired meal. Whether you’re hosting a potluck, preparing a quick weeknight dinner, or simply craving a taste of the Southwestern U.S., this dish is sure to impress with its simplicity and bold flavors. With just a few easy steps, you can whip up a batch of this mouthwatering rice that’s healthy, kid-friendly, and irresistibly delicious!
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 tbsp | Unsalted butter |
| 1 tbsp | Margarine |
| 1/2 cup | Long grain white rice |
| 1 | Onion |
| 6 tbsp | Thick & chunky salsa |
| 3/4 cup | Water |
| 1/2 cup | Carrot |
| To taste | Cumin |
Instructions:
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Preparation:
- Gather all the ingredients and equipment needed to prepare Ortega’s Mexican Rice.
- Chop the onion and carrot finely, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.
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Sautรฉing:
- In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter and margarine over medium heat until sizzling.
- Add the chopped onion to the pan and sautรฉ until translucent and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Stir in the long grain white rice, ensuring that it’s evenly coated with the butter mixture.
- Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 to 4 minutes or until the rice turns a golden hue and releases a nutty aroma.
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Adding Flavors:
- Once the rice is golden, add the thick & chunky salsa to the saucepan, infusing the dish with rich tomato flavor and a hint of spice.
- Pour in the water, ensuring that it covers the rice completely and forms a flavorful base for cooking.
- Sprinkle ground cumin over the mixture, adding a warm and earthy essence that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
- Toss in the chopped carrot, adding a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
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Simmering:
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, allowing the flavors to meld together and the rice to absorb the liquid.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid to trap the steam and ensure even cooking.
- Let the rice simmer gently for 25 to 30 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed, and the grains are tender and fluffy.
- Resist the urge to lift the lid during cooking, as this will release steam and disrupt the cooking process.
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Finishing Touches:
- Once the rice is cooked to perfection, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for a few minutes to allow the flavors to mingle.
- Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains and distribute the vegetables evenly throughout the dish.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or cumin to suit your preferences.
- Serve Ortega’s Mexican Rice hot as a flavorful side dish alongside your favorite Mexican-inspired entrees, such as tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meats.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 140.5 per serving
- Fat Content: 3.2g
- Saturated Fat Content: 1.9g
- Cholesterol Content: 7.6mg
- Sodium Content: 360.1mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 25.3g
- Fiber Content: 2.1g
- Sugar Content: 3.2g
- Protein Content: 3.2g
Serving Suggestions:
Ortega’s Mexican Rice pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Serve it alongside classic Tex-Mex favorites like fajitas, burritos, or quesadillas for a complete and satisfying meal. For a vegetarian option, top the rice with sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess. You can also use this rice as a filling for stuffed peppers or as a base for flavorful rice bowls topped with grilled chicken, black beans, and fresh salsa. However you choose to enjoy it, Ortega’s Mexican Rice is sure to become a family favorite that’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor!
