My Mom Teaches Me How to Make MEXICAN / SPANISH RICE (Traditional & Easy Recipe)

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will learn how to make traditional Mexican or Spanish rice, following a simple and easy recipe shared by ArnieTex’s mom. This beloved dish serves as a perfect side for homemade meals and barbecues. By the end of this guide, you'll not only know how to prepare this delicious rice but also receive a pro tip for consistent results every time.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before starting, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients:

• 2 cups of long-grain white rice
• 4 cups of chicken broth (or water)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 medium tomato, diced (or 1 cup of canned tomato)
• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
• Salt to taste
• Optional: bell peppers, peas, or corn for added flavor

Practical Tips

• Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In a large dutch oven or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Practical Advice

• Keep an eye on the garlic; it can burn quickly and become bitter.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

1. Add the rinsed rice to the pot with the sautéed onions and garlic.
2. Stir the rice for about 5 minutes, allowing it to toast and absorb the flavors.

Common Pitfalls

• Avoid skipping the toasting step, as it adds depth to the flavor of the rice.

Step 4: Add Liquid and Seasoning

1. Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and add the diced tomato.
2. Season with salt to taste, and stir well to combine all ingredients.

Practical Tips

• Adjust the salt based on your preference and the saltiness of your broth.

Step 5: Cook the Rice

1. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
3. Simmer for about 20 minutes without lifting the lid.

Important Note

• Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain steam and heat, which are crucial for proper cooking.

Step 6: Fluff and Serve

1. After 20 minutes, turn off the heat and let the rice sit covered for an additional 5 minutes.
2. Remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork.

Pro Tip

• For consistent results, always measure your rice and liquid accurately. A common ratio is 1 part rice to 2 parts liquid.

Conclusion

You now have a delicious recipe for traditional Mexican or Spanish rice! This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of meals, especially barbecues. Remember to practice the techniques shared in this guide, especially the toasting and steaming processes, to perfect your rice every time. Enjoy your cooking!