My Mother-in-Law’s Authentic Mexican Rice Recipe

Introduction:

This Mexican Rice recipe, passed down from my mother-in-law, is a family favorite. With perfectly cooked, fluffy rice infused with rich tomato flavor and subtle spices, this dish is a must-have side for any Mexican-inspired meal. Simple to prepare and full of authentic taste, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen too.

Ingredients

• 2 roma tomatoes
• 1 piece of onion (about 1/4 of a medium onion)
• 1 tablespoon salt
• Garlic powder, to taste
• Onion powder, to taste
• 1 tablespoon Knorr tomato bouillon
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 4 cups hot water
• A little over 1/4 cup oil (for frying)
• 2 cups long grain rice or jasmine rice
• Optional: 1 jalapeño (for flavor)

Directions

1. Prepare the Tomato Mixture:
   In a blender, combine the roma tomatoes, onion, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, Knorr tomato bouillon, cumin, and hot water. Blend until smooth and well combined.
2. Fry the Rice:
   Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the rice and fry, stirring frequently, until the rice is light brown.
3. Cook the Rice:
   Pour the blended tomato mixture over the browned rice in the skillet. Stir well to combine and check the seasoning, adjusting the salt or spices as needed.
4. Simmer:
   Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium. Cook the rice without stirring until it has absorbed the broth and is tender, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Rest and Fluff:
   Once the rice is cooked, turn off the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5-10 minutes. After resting, remove the cover and fluff the rice with a fork.
6. Optional Jalapeño:
   For added flavor, you can place a jalapeño in the rice while it cooks. It won’t make the dish spicy, but will impart a subtle flavor that your family might fight over, just like mine does!
7. Serve:
   Serve the rice hot as a side dish to your favorite Mexican meals, or enjoy it on its own.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 4-6 people.
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

• Spicier Version: Add a diced jalapeño or serrano pepper to the rice when you fry it for extra heat.
• Vegetable Mix: Add peas, carrots, or corn to the rice during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a colorful and nutritious twist.
• Lemon or Lime: A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice over the rice before serving adds a bright, tangy flavor.
• Rice Substitution: You can use basmati rice for a slightly different texture or brown rice for a healthier option (adjust cooking time accordingly).

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a microwave-safe dish, adding a splash of water to prevent dryness. Cover and microwave until warm, stirring halfway through.
• Freezing: Mexican rice can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this rice without oil?
   Yes, you can reduce or omit the oil, but the rice might not have the same toasted flavor or texture.
2. Is the jalapeño necessary for the flavor?
   The jalapeño adds a subtle flavor but is optional. You can skip it or replace it with another pepper.
3. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
   Yes, substitute with about 1 cup of canned tomatoes, but the flavor may be slightly different.
4. How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan?
   Ensure the rice is evenly coated with oil during frying and avoid stirring once the liquid is added.
5. Can I add chicken broth instead of water?
   Yes, chicken broth can be used for a richer flavor.
6. What can I do if the rice turns out too salty?
   Serve with a squeeze of lime or lemon juice to balance the saltiness, or mix in more cooked rice to dilute the flavor.
7. Can I make this rice in a rice cooker?
   Yes, after frying the rice and mixing it with the tomato blend, transfer it to a rice cooker and cook as you would regular rice.
8. Can I add protein like chicken or shrimp?
   Yes, you can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even beans to make it a complete meal.
9. Is jasmine rice better than long-grain rice for this recipe?
   Jasmine rice has a slightly different texture and fragrance, but either can be used based on your preference.
10. How can I make the rice fluffier?
    Ensure you let the rice rest covered after cooking, then fluff it gently with a fork before serving.

Conclusion

This Mexican Rice recipe is a flavorful and authentic side dish that complements any Mexican meal. Passed down from my mother-in-law, it carries the warmth and tradition of home-cooked family meals. Whether served alongside tacos, enchiladas, or enjoyed on its own, this rice is sure to become a favorite in your household too. Enjoy the taste of tradition with every bite!

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