Restaurant Style Mexican Rice

When it comes to classic Mexican cuisine, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Restaurant Style Mexican Rice to complement your favorite dishes. Whether you’re serving it alongside tacos, burritos, or simply enjoying it on its own, this rice is not only flavorful but also versatile. With the perfect blend of spices, tomatoes, and a touch of ghee, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish that can elevate any meal.

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This Restaurant Style Mexican Rice recipe is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First and foremost, it uses accessible ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The combination of long-grain brown rice and spices creates a flavor profile that’s reminiscent of your favorite Mexican restaurant. Plus, the cooking method ensures that the rice comes out fluffy and perfectly cooked every time.

The Essentials

To prepare this delicious rice, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter (I used ghee)
• 1 cup long-grain brown rice (I like Uncle Ben’s Long-Grain)
• 1/2 cup sweet onion, diced
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher or sea salt (more or less to taste)
• 1/2 cup diced fire-roasted tomatoes (canned, with liquid)
• 2 tablespoons diced green chiles (canned, with liquid)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 cups chicken broth (fat-free)

Must-Have Equipment

Before we get cooking, make sure you have these essential tools:

• Medium saucepan: Ideal for cooking the rice.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate measurements for the recipe.

Restaurant Style Mexican Rice in Steps

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by melting the ghee (or butter) in your medium saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced sweet onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Toast the Rice

Add the long-grain brown rice to the saucepan, stirring frequently for about 2-3 minutes. This step allows the rice to absorb the flavors of the onion and garlic while lightly toasting it for a richer flavor.

Step 3: Spice It Up

Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to coat the rice evenly with the spices, allowing the mixture to cook for another minute.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Pour in the canned fire-roasted tomatoes (with their liquid), diced green chiles, and tomato paste. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Add the Chicken Broth

Pour in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let it simmer for about 40-45 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.

Step 6: Fluff and Serve

Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it sit, covered, for about 5 minutes. Then, use a fork to fluff the rice gently. Serve it warm as a side dish or as the base for any Mexican-inspired meal.

Seasonal Spins

Feel free to customize your Restaurant Style Mexican Rice with these seasonal additions:

• Spring: Add in fresh peas or asparagus for a pop of color and freshness.
• Summer: Mix in grilled corn and diced bell peppers for a sweet crunch.
• Fall: Stir in roasted butternut squash for a cozy, autumn twist.
• Winter: Add in sautéed kale or spinach for a nutritious boost.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

Even the best cooks can run into a few hiccups. Here are some common mistakes and how to fix them:

• Rice is too sticky: Make sure to rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch.
• Rice is undercooked: Ensure you are using enough liquid and allow it to simmer long enough.
• Flavor is bland: Adjust the spices to your taste, and consider adding fresh herbs like cilantro for extra flavor.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

Making Restaurant Style Mexican Rice ahead of time is a breeze! Here are some tips:

• Cook the rice and allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth and microwave or heat on the stovetop until warm.
• For meal prep, portion the rice into containers with your favorite proteins like Mexican Instant Pot Shredded Chicken or Mexican Pulled Chicken for easy lunches.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, but the cooking time may differ. White rice typically cooks faster, so adjust the simmering time to about 20 minutes.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the ghee with olive oil and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What if I don’t have fire-roasted tomatoes?

If you can’t find fire-roasted tomatoes, regular diced tomatoes will work just fine. You can add a bit of smoked paprika for a similar flavor.

How can I spice it up more?

For an extra kick, add more chili powder or include diced jalapeños in the mix.

Desserts to Finish

Complete your meal with these delicious desserts:

• Churros – A classic Mexican treat that’s fun to make and even more fun to eat!
• Flan – A creamy caramel custard that pairs perfectly with your Mexican feast.
• Mexican Chocolate Cake – Rich and moist, this cake has a hint of spice that’s simply irresistible.

Make It Tonight

Now that you have all the tips and tricks, it’s time to whip up this Restaurant Style Mexican Rice for dinner tonight! Whether you’re planning a taco night or just want to add a burst of flavor to your meal, this rice will surely be a hit. Remember, the key to perfect rice is all in the cooking technique and the love you put into it. Enjoy every bite and share your culinary triumph with family and friends!

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