How to Cook Mexican Rice on Stove
Mexican rice is a delightful and flavorful dish that is a staple in many Mexican households. Made with a variety of spices and ingredients, it is a perfect accompaniment to a variety of Mexican dishes. If you’re looking to cook Mexican rice on the stove, follow these simple steps to create a delicious and authentic meal.
Ingredients
Before you start cooking, gather the following ingredients:
– 2 cups of long-grain white rice
– 4 cups of water
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon of chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 can of diced tomatoes or 1/2 cup of tomato sauce
Instructions
1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove excess starch, which can make the rice gummy.
2. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute to release the flavors of the spices.
5. Add the rinsed rice to the pot and stir well to coat the rice with the spices.
6. Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let the rice simmer for about 20 minutes. Do not stir the rice during this time.
7. After 20 minutes, turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the rice to finish cooking and absorb any remaining liquid.
8. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste. If you’re using diced tomatoes or tomato sauce, stir them in at this point for added flavor.
9. Serve the Mexican rice hot, as a side dish or as a base for your favorite Mexican entrees.
Tips and Tricks
– For extra flavor, you can sauté some bell peppers and black beans with the onions and garlic before adding the rice.
– If you prefer a creamier rice, add a splash of milk or cream before serving.
– To keep the rice from sticking together, make sure to use a non-stick pot or a pot with a tight-fitting lid.
Cooking Mexican rice on the stove is a simple and rewarding process that can elevate your Mexican cuisine to new heights. Enjoy your homemade Mexican rice with your favorite Mexican dishes!
