Classic Mexican Rice Fiesta
This Classic Mexican Rice Fiesta recipe, passed down from my sister-in-law, who hails from the vibrant streets of Mexico City, brings the authentic flavors of Mexico to your table. It’s a simple yet delightful side dish, ideal for complementing rich, savory dishes like beef stew (try it with carne guisada #80408 for an incredible meal). This colorful rice is not only delicious but also customizable, allowing you to incorporate a variety of vegetables based on your preference. Garnished with fresh cilantro and served with zesty salsa on the side, it promises to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering or intimate family dinner.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
vegetable oil
1/4 cup (None)
chopped onion
1/2 cup (Chopped)
chopped pepper
1/2 cup (Chopped (sweet or hot, your choice))
raw converted rice
1 1/2 cups (None)
frozen vegetables
1 cup (None (such as peas, corn, chopped carrots, or a combination))
chicken bouillon powder
2 teaspoons (None)
minced garlic
1 tablespoon (Minced)
water
2 1/4 cups (None)
chopped cilantro
To taste (Chopped (for garnish or mixed in))
salsa
To serve (None)
Instructions
1
In a non-stick saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2
Add the chopped onion and pepper to the pan. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the onion and pepper are tender and fragrant.
3
Stir in the raw converted rice, and continue to sauté for an additional 3-5 minutes until the rice is slightly opaque, stirring occasionally.
4
Add the frozen vegetables, chicken bouillon powder, minced garlic, and water to the rice mixture. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
5
Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
6
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan tightly, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this time to ensure even cooking.
7
After simmering, remove the saucepan from heat and let it stand, covered, for an additional 5 minutes.
8
Fluff the rice gently with a fork, then serve in a dish garnished with chopped cilantro, or mix it in for a burst of flavor.
9
Don't forget to serve with salsa on the side for an extra kick!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Classic Mexican Rice Fiesta?
It is an authentic Mexican side dish recipe inspired by flavors from Mexico City, featuring rice, vegetables, and savory seasonings.
Who is the source of this recipe?
The recipe was passed down from the creator's sister-in-law who is originally from Mexico City.
What main dish pairs best with this rice?
It is ideal for complementing rich, savory dishes like beef stew or carne guisada.
Can I customize the vegetables in this rice?
Yes, the recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to incorporate various vegetables based on your preference.
What kind of pan should I use?
A non-stick saucepan with a tight-fitting lid is recommended for the best results.
How much vegetable oil is needed?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of vegetable oil.
How long should I sauté the onion and pepper?
Sauté them for about 5 minutes or until they are tender and fragrant.
What type of rice is used in this recipe?
This recipe specifically uses 1 1/2 cups of raw converted rice.
Why do I need to sauté the raw rice?
Sautéing the rice for 3-5 minutes until it becomes slightly opaque helps develop the texture and flavor.
What frozen vegetables are recommended?
You can use a combination of peas, corn, and chopped carrots.
How much chicken bouillon powder is required?
The recipe uses 2 teaspoons of chicken bouillon powder for seasoning.
How much garlic should I add?
You should add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic.
What is the correct amount of water for this rice?
The recipe requires 2 1/4 cups of water.
Do I need to bring the rice to a boil?
Yes, after adding the water and seasonings, increase the heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
How long does the rice need to simmer?
The rice should simmer on low heat for 15 to 20 minutes.
Can I check the rice while it is simmering?
No, you should avoid lifting the lid during the simmering process to ensure even cooking.
What should I do after the rice finishes simmering?
Remove the pan from the heat and let it stand, covered, for an additional 5 minutes.
How do I serve the rice?
Fluff the rice gently with a fork and serve it in a dish garnished with cilantro.
What garnish adds a burst of flavor?
Chopped cilantro can be used as a garnish or mixed directly into the rice.
Should I serve salsa with this dish?
Yes, serving salsa on the side is recommended for an extra kick of flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for families?
Yes, it is described as a crowd-pleaser that is perfect for intimate family dinners.
What kind of peppers can I use?
You can use 1/2 cup of either sweet or hot chopped peppers depending on your preference.
Is this recipe considered easy?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe and a simple side dish.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
The recipe consists of 10 primary ingredients.
Is this rice recipe vegetarian?
While tagged as vegetarian, it contains chicken bouillon; for a strictly vegetarian version, use vegetable bouillon.
What is the total rest time after cooking?
The rice needs to rest for 5 minutes off the heat while still covered.
How much onion is used?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of chopped onion.
What is the goal of fluffing the rice?
Fluffing with a fork separates the grains and improves the overall presentation and texture.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, the description mentions you can incorporate a variety of vegetables based on your preference.
What is the main characteristic of this rice?
It is a colorful, authentic, and customizable Mexican side dish.