Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with Maria Luisa's Chilango Style Mexican Rice, a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico right to your kitchen! This easy-to-follow recipe transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering side that pairs perfectly with any meal. With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you'll have a delightful dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also impresses your family and friends. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover how to make a rice dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup long grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the long grain rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear, which helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cumin to the onions, stirring quickly to prevent burning and to release the aromatic flavors, cooking for an additional 30 seconds.
- Pour in the rinsed rice and stir to coat the grains with the onion and spice mixture, toasting the rice for 1-2 minutes to enhance its nutty flavor.
- Add the tomato sauce and chicken broth to the rice, stirring to combine. Ensure all rice grains are submerged in the liquid.
- Season with salt to taste, then bring the mixture to a full boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and let the rice simmer for 18-20 minutes without lifting the lid.
- After the cooking time, remove the pan from heat and let it sit, still covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam and become fluffy.
- Uncover and fluff the rice gently with a fork, separating the grains.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving hot as a side dish.
Tips
- Rinse Your Rice: Always rinse your long grain rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This crucial step removes excess starch, ensuring your rice turns out fluffy and non-sticky.
- Sauté for Flavor: When sautéing the onions, allow them to become translucent and slightly golden. This caramelization adds depth to the overall flavor of your rice.
- Don’t Skip the Toasting: Toasting the rice for a couple of minutes before adding the liquids enhances its nutty flavor, making your dish even more delicious.
- Keep the Lid On: Once you cover the saucepan, resist the urge to lift the lid while the rice simmers. This helps trap steam and ensures even cooking.
- Fluff with a Fork: After the rice has steamed, use a fork to fluff it gently. This technique separates the grains and gives you that perfect texture.
- Fresh Garnish: For a burst of freshness, don’t forget to garnish with chopped cilantro just before serving. It adds a lovely color and enhances the flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 42g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 5mg
