Zesty Mexican Rice with Tomatoes and Chilies

Mexican Rice
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Category: Long Grain Rice
Servings: 6 | Calories: 220.2 kcal per serving

Description

Mexican Rice, a flavorful dish often enjoyed across South America, brings together tender long-grain rice, juicy tomatoes, and a symphony of aromatic flavors. Its vibrant seasoning and gentle heat from chilies make it a perfect complement to many meals. Whether served with tacos, grilled meats, or as a hearty vegetarian side, this dish captures the heart of Mexican cuisine while remaining healthy, low in cholesterol, and easy on the budget. This recipe is ideal for chilly winter nights when a comforting, spicy meal is desired.

Ingredients

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Rice
   Place the rice in a large heatproof bowl and pour enough boiling water over it to fully cover the grains. Stir once to ensure all the rice is submerged, then let it sit for about 10 minutes. This step helps soften the rice slightly and ensures a fluffy texture later on.

2. Rinse and Drain the Rice
   After soaking the rice, transfer it to a fine-mesh strainer and rinse thoroughly under cold water. Drain the rice and let it sit in the strainer for a few minutes to dry slightly. This process will help prevent the rice from becoming sticky as it cooks.

3. Prepare the Tomato Mixture
   While the rice dries, pour the tomatoes (with their juices) into a blender or food processor. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Process the mixture until smooth. This will be the flavorful base that infuses the rice with a delicious tomato essence.

4. Cook the Rice
   Heat a large, heavy-bottom skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of oil (vegetable or olive oil works well), then pour in the drained rice. Stir frequently and cook the rice until it turns a light golden brown. Be patient—this step is crucial for developing the rich, nutty flavor of the rice.

5. Combine Tomato Mixture and Rice
   Once the rice is browned, pour in the tomato mixture. Stir well, ensuring that all the grains of rice are evenly coated with the tomato sauce. Continue to cook over medium heat until the liquid is mostly absorbed. This allows the rice to take on the vibrant color and taste of the tomatoes.

6. Add Stock, Salt, and Chilies
   Stir in the stock, salt, and whole chilies (if you’re adding extra heat). Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and allow the rice to cook slowly. Stir occasionally, but avoid lifting the lid too often, as this can cause the rice to dry out before it’s fully tender.

7. Finish Cooking
   Continue to simmer until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed, about 20-25 minutes. Once the rice is fully cooked, remove the skillet from the heat but keep the lid on. Let the rice stand for an additional 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set.

8. Fluff and Serve
   After the rice has rested, carefully remove the whole chilies (if using) and fluff the rice with a fork. This step separates the grains and creates a light, airy texture. Sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper to taste. If desired, you can use the whole chilies as a garnish for an extra pop of color and spice.

Enjoy your delicious Mexican Rice, either as a side dish or a main component of your meal!

Tips for Serving

• Pair with Protein: Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or beef for a satisfying meal.
• Vegetarian Delight: Add roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn to the rice to make it a hearty vegetarian main course.
• Leftovers: Store any leftover rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to loosen the rice as needed.

Keywords: Rice, Vegetable, Mexican, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Winter, Spicy, < 60 Mins, Inexpensive