Mexican Rice Recipe
This truly classic Mexican rice is a quintessential accompaniment, renowned for its savory depth and delicate texture. A staple to pair with a variety of Mexican entrées, it’s straightforward to prepare and rich in traditional flavor.
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Ingredients
- 3 cups water
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce or 2 pureed tomatoes
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup peas fresh or frozen
- 1 1/2 cups long grain white rice
- 1-3 whole serrano peppers optional
- 1/4 cup oil canola or vegetable
- 1/4 medium onion finely diced
- 1 diced carrot
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons tomato bouillon granulated or cubes
Instructions
- Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold running water using a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear; set aside to drain.
- Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the rice and cook, stirring continuously, until the grains turn uniformly golden brown, about 10 minutes.
- Incorporate the tomato sauce, minced garlic, and diced onion into the pot and stir well. Introduce the tomato bouillon, salt, diced carrot, peas, and water. If using, gently lay the serrano peppers atop the mixture.
- Allow the contents to reach a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer undisturbed for 20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove the pot from the heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving.
Notes
Rice Preparation: Rinsing is essential to eliminate surface starch, ensuring each grain cooks separately and fluffily.
Brown Rice Option: Substitute with brown rice by increasing the water by ½ cup and extending the cook time to 40 minutes, maintaining the same resting period.
Tomato Alternatives: For a deeper flavor, blend fresh tomatoes with the onion and garlic before cooking.
Bouillon Substitute: If tomato bouillon is unavailable, chicken bouillon may be used as an alternative.
Flavor Enhancement: Whole serrano peppers can be added to infuse the rice subtly without adding heat.
Brown Rice Option: Substitute with brown rice by increasing the water by ½ cup and extending the cook time to 40 minutes, maintaining the same resting period.
Tomato Alternatives: For a deeper flavor, blend fresh tomatoes with the onion and garlic before cooking.
Bouillon Substitute: If tomato bouillon is unavailable, chicken bouillon may be used as an alternative.
Flavor Enhancement: Whole serrano peppers can be added to infuse the rice subtly without adding heat.