There’s nothing quite like the aroma of Restaurant Style Mexican Rice wafting through your kitchen, instantly transporting you to a bustling cantina. Imagine fluffy grains, perfectly seasoned with spices, and adorned with colorful veggies — it’s a fiesta for your senses!
This dish isn’t just food; it’s nostalgia on a plate. I remember my abuela whipping up her famous rice every Sunday, filling the house with warmth and love. Whether you’re hosting taco night or simply craving comfort, this recipe promises a burst of flavor that will have you reaching for seconds (and thirds).
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Restaurant Style Mexican Rice is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
- It’s versatile enough to accompany various dishes or stand alone as a delightful vegetarian meal
- Plus, the flavor profile is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters!
Ingredients for Restaurant Style Mexican Rice
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Long Grain White Rice: Opt for long grain rice for fluffy texture; avoid sticky varieties.
Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while adding depth of flavor.
Fresh Garlic: Minced garlic enhances the base flavors; use fresh for the best taste.
Onion: Chopped onion adds sweetness and richness; yellow onions work beautifully in this recipe.
Tomato Sauce: A must-have for color and moisture; opt for high-quality sauce for an authentic taste.
Cumin: Ground cumin introduces earthy warmth; it’s essential for that Mexican flair.
Chili Powder: Adjust the amount based on your spice preference; it adds depth without overwhelming heat.
Frozen Peas and Carrots: These add color and nutrition; feel free to substitute with any veggies you love!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Restaurant Style Mexican Rice
Start by Rinsing the Rice
Begin this culinary adventure by rinsing your long grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This simple step removes excess starch and ensures fluffy grains that won’t stick together.
Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, warm a drizzle of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant, about three minutes. This creates a flavorful base that will elevate your rice.
Toast the Rice
Next, stir in your rinsed rice, allowing it to toast gently in the pot. Keep stirring until each grain looks slightly golden — about five minutes. This step enhances nuttiness and prepares your rice for soaking up all those delicious flavors.
Add Flavorful Liquids
Pour in vegetable broth and tomato sauce while sprinkling in cumin and chili powder. Stir well to combine all ingredients smoothly. The mixture should bubble pleasantly as it comes together in harmony.
Bring It All Together
Increase heat until everything reaches a gentle boil, then reduce it back down to low heat. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and let it simmer undisturbed for about 18-20 minutes until all liquid absorbs completely.
Add Veggies
Once cooked, carefully fluff the rice with a fork before folding in frozen peas and carrots. The residual heat will warm them through while adding lovely pops of color.
Taste Test Time
Finally, take a moment to taste your masterpiece! Adjust seasoning if needed — maybe another dash of chili powder or salt? It’s all about finding that perfect balance tailored just for you.
Serve Hot
Serve your Restaurant Style Mexican Rice hot alongside tacos or grilled meats, or enjoy it as a satisfying vegetarian meal on its own! Garnish with fresh cilantro or lime wedges if you’re feeling fancy.
Enjoy!
Now sit back and relish every bite of this flavorful creation that brings joy not just to your palate but also warms your heart with memories of shared meals around the table!
You Must Know
- This delightful Restaurant Style Mexican Rice is not just a side dish; it’s a flavor fiesta that brings the essence of Mexican restaurants right to your kitchen
- Perfectly fluffy and vibrant, this rice elevates every meal and can be tailored to suit any taste
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the ultimate Restaurant Style Mexican Rice, start by sautéing onion and garlic in oil until fragrant. Next, toast your rice for a few minutes before adding broth and tomatoes. This sequence ensures maximum flavor infusion!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Restaurant Style Mexican Rice! Try adding diced bell peppers, corn, or even black beans for an extra punch. Swap out spices or use fresh herbs like cilantro for a unique twist that suits your palate.
Storing & Reheating
Store your leftover Restaurant Style Mexican Rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. When reheating, add a splash of water to keep it moist and fluffy—nobody wants dry rice!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect Restaurant Style Mexican Rice, rinse the rice to remove excess starch, creating fluffier grains
- Use high-quality broth for richer flavor and always let the rice rest covered after cooking for ideal texture
I remember the first time I made this Restaurant Style Mexican Rice for a family gathering. Everyone went back for seconds, and my aunt even asked for the recipe—talk about pressure!
FAQs:
What is Restaurant Style Mexican Rice?
Restaurant Style Mexican Rice is a flavorful and vibrant dish commonly served in Mexican restaurants. It typically features long-grain rice cooked with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices. This dish complements various Mexican meals and adds a colorful touch to the plate. Preparing it at home allows you to enjoy restaurant-quality flavors while customizing the ingredients to suit your taste.
How can I make my Mexican Rice more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of your Restaurant Style Mexican Rice, consider sautéing onions and garlic before adding the rice. Using homemade or high-quality chicken broth instead of water can also intensify the taste. Adding fresh herbs like cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice right before serving will elevate the flavor profile, making your rice even more delicious.
Can I make Restaurant Style Mexican Rice ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Restaurant Style Mexican Rice ahead of time. Cook it according to your recipe and let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. This makes it a convenient side dish for meal prep or gatherings.
What dishes pair well with Restaurant Style Mexican Rice?
Restaurant Style Mexican Rice pairs beautifully with various dishes. It complements classic options like tacos, enchiladas, and fajitas perfectly. You can also serve it alongside grilled meats or as part of a burrito bowl for a satisfying meal. The versatility of this rice ensures that it enhances any dining experience.
Conclusion for Restaurant Style Mexican Rice:
In summary, Restaurant Style Mexican Rice is an easy yet flavorful dish that brings authentic tastes to your home cooking. By following simple steps and using quality ingredients, you can recreate this restaurant favorite effortlessly. Whether you serve it with tacos or grilled chicken, this rice will undoubtedly impress your family and friends while elevating any meal to a new level of deliciousness. Enjoy making this delightful dish!
Restaurant Style Mexican Rice
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Restaurant Style Mexican Rice is a vibrant and aromatic dish that brings the flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine right into your kitchen. This recipe features fluffy grains of long-grain white rice, perfectly seasoned with spices, and complemented by colorful vegetables. Ideal for taco nights or as a standalone vegetarian meal, this delicious rice dish promises to delight your taste buds and impress your guests at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water until clear to remove excess starch.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat; sauté the onion and garlic until translucent (about 3 minutes).
- Stir in the rinsed rice; toast for about 5 minutes until golden.
- Add vegetable broth, tomato sauce, cumin, and chili powder; stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff with a fork and fold in frozen peas and carrots; allow them to heat through before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
