Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 ½ cups chicken stock or broth
- 8 oz. can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
Instructions:
- Rinse the rice in a mesh strainer until water draining is clear. (This is optional, but it helps remove the starch and keep the cooked rice from being mushy.)
- Heat the oil in a 4-quart saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the rice and cook until translucent about 3-4 minutes stirring constantly.
- Add the rest of the ingredients and bring to a boil over high heat.
- Stir once and cover. Turn the heat down to a low simmer (a little less than medium low) and cook for 20 minutes. Remove cover and let stand 2-3 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Serving Tips:
- Garnish for Presentation: Before serving, garnish your Easy Mexican Rice with fresh chopped cilantro or a sprinkle of diced green onions for a pop of color and added flavor. This simple touch enhances the visual appeal of the dish and complements its vibrant flavors.
- Serve with Traditional Mexican Dishes: Pair your Mexican Rice with classic Mexican entrees such as enchiladas, tacos, burritos, or fajitas for an authentic and satisfying meal. The savory flavors of the rice perfectly complement the spices and textures of these dishes.
- Use as a Filling: Turn your Easy Mexican Rice into a filling for burritos, stuffed peppers, or taco bowls. The versatile nature of the rice makes it a delicious and filling option for a variety of Mexican-inspired recipes.
- Top with Sour Cream or Guacamole: Serve your Mexican Rice topped with a dollop of sour cream or a scoop of creamy guacamole for added richness and creaminess. These toppings add a cool contrast to the warm and savory rice.
- Serve as a Side Dish: Mexican Rice makes a flavorful side dish for grilled meats, seafood, or roasted vegetables. Its bold flavors and fluffy texture complement a wide range of main courses and can elevate any meal.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigerate Leftovers Promptly: If you have leftover Mexican Rice, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate the rice promptly and consume it within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
- Reheat Before Serving: To reheat the refrigerated Mexican Rice, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the rice to help moisten it. Heat the rice in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
- Freeze for Future Use: If you have a larger batch of Mexican Rice or want to make extra for later, you can freeze it for future use. Transfer the cooled rice to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw the frozen rice overnight in the refrigerator before reheating as directed.