Maria’s Mexican Rice: A Flavorful, Authentic Side Dish

Maria’s Mexican Rice is a cherished family recipe passed down through generations. Made with simple ingredients like rice, onion, tomato sauce, and a touch of cumin, this dish captures the essence of authentic Mexican flavor. It’s easy to make, perfectly balanced, and can be customized to add a little heat with a Serrano pepper if desired.

Quick Benefits

• Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and 40 minutes, you can have a perfectly cooked pot of Mexican rice.
• Customizable: Add heat with a chopped Serrano pepper or adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences.
• Versatile: This rice pairs perfectly with tacos, grilled meats, or as a side dish for almost any meal.
• Flavorful: The combination of tomato sauce, cumin, and chicken bouillon makes this rice fragrant and full of depth without being greasy.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Maria’s Mexican Rice:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the rice and onion, giving the dish a rich flavor and texture.
• 1 cup rice: The base of the dish, providing a soft, fluffy texture.
• ½ large onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the rice.
• ½ tablespoon salt: For seasoning.
• ⅛ teaspoon ground cumin: A warm, aromatic spice that gives the rice its authentic Mexican flavor.
• ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper: For subtle seasoning.
• 2 ½ cups water: To cook the rice and form the flavorful base.
• ⅓ cup tomato sauce: Provides color, richness, and a mild tomato flavor.
• 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon (such as Knorr®): Adds umami and savory depth.
• 1 whole serrano chile pepper (Optional): Adds flavor without heat when used whole; chop for a spicy version.

Preparation Steps

1. Heat Oil and Sauté Rice: Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the rice and diced onion, cooking and stirring for about 5 minutes until the rice is lightly browned.
2. Season the Rice: Add salt, cumin, and black pepper to the rice and onion mixture, stirring to coat evenly.
3. Add Liquids: Pour in the water and stir in the tomato sauce and chicken bouillon. Increase the heat to medium-high, cover the saucepan, and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Add Serrano (Optional): If using, add the whole Serrano chile pepper to the pot. The whole pepper will add flavor without much heat, but if you want more heat, chop and deseed the pepper before adding.
5. Cook the Rice: Once the rice mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the rice simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove the Serrano pepper if used.
6. Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork and serve as a delicious side dish to your favorite Mexican meal.

Health Benefits

Maria’s Mexican Rice is a tasty dish that provides several benefits:

• Fiber: The rice provides a small amount of dietary fiber, which supports digestive health.
• Vitamins: The tomato sauce adds a touch of vitamin C, and the onion contributes small amounts of vitamins and minerals.
• Low in Fat: The dish is made with just a small amount of olive oil, making it a relatively low-fat side dish.

However, it’s important to note that this dish can be high in sodium due to the chicken bouillon, so it’s best to consume in moderation, especially for those watching their salt intake.

Serving Suggestions

• With Tacos: This rice pairs wonderfully with any type of tacos, whether they are beef, chicken, or vegetarian.
• With Grilled Meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a complete Mexican-inspired meal.
• With Beans: Serve this rice with refried beans or black beans for a hearty and nutritious meal.
• As a Base: Use it as a base for burrito bowls, topped with your favorite ingredients like guacamole, salsa, or sour cream.

Creative Variations

• Spicy Version: For a spicier version of the rice, chop the Serrano pepper, remove the seeds, and add it to the rice mixture along with the other ingredients.
• Add Vegetables: Add peas, corn, or diced bell peppers to the rice for extra flavor and color.
• Cilantro-Lime Rice: After cooking, stir in some chopped fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for a fresh twist.
• Cheesy Rice: For a cheesy version, stir in some shredded cheese once the rice is cooked and let it melt into the rice for added richness.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Mexican rice can be frozen for up to 1 month. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen it up.

Pro Tips

• Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the rice while it’s simmering to ensure it doesn’t burn or dry out. If the rice is too dry, add a little more water.
• Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pan: A heavy-bottomed saucepan helps distribute heat evenly, preventing the rice from burning or sticking.
• Fluff Before Serving: After the rice is cooked, use a fork to fluff it to ensure it’s light and fluffy rather than clumpy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this rice ahead of time?
Yes, Maria’s Mexican Rice can be made ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat it when ready to serve.

2. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice. Keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid.

3. Can I omit the chicken bouillon?
If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can omit the chicken bouillon and use vegetable broth or a vegetarian bouillon cube instead.

4. How can I adjust the heat level?
If you prefer a spicier rice, you can chop the Serrano pepper and add it to the rice mixture. You can also add a pinch of chili powder or a few dashes of hot sauce for more heat.

Maria’s Mexican Rice is a flavorful and easy-to-make side dish that adds an authentic touch to any Mexican meal. It’s customizable to your liking and makes for the perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes. Enjoy!

Print