| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 287 | 8g | 2g | 45g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 6g | 3g | 6g | 0.5g |
What’s not to love about Mexican Rice with New Mexico Chile? This is not your typical rice dish. It’s a rainbow of flavors, drawing on the influences of its rich heritage and expertly fusing it with an unexpectedly delightful twist – fruit. Just as I revel in the vibrant and diverse food scene of my hometown, New York City, this recipe is a tribute to the vibrant and diverse flavors of Mexico. What truly sets this dish apart is its incorporation of juicy, ripe fruit such as pineapple, mango, or peach. Their graceful interplay with the spicy New Mexico chile and robust flavors of garlic, onion, tomato and cilantro makes for a delectable explosion of taste.
A Symphony of Flavors
Being a stage actor, I appreciate when different elements come together to create a beautiful performance. This spirit of collaboration is what makes Mexican Rice with New Mexico Chile so special. Every ingredient has a role to play, contributing its unique character to the ensemble. The warmth of the red chile, sharp tang of fresh lime, the fruity sweetness that is versatile depending on your choice of fruit, all these lovely flavors harmoniously convened in a bed of fluffy, white rice. It’s gastronomy imitating art.
Nutritional Highlights
Apart from the tornado of tastes it brings, this recipe is packed with various health benefits as well. Onion and garlic are known for their immunity-boosting properties, while the added fruit not only amplifies flavour but also introduces an abundance of vital nutrients like Vitamin C. The red chile not only brings the heat but is also a great source of Capsaicin, known for its inflammation reducing properties. It all comes together in a deliciously wholesome dish that doesn’t compromise on taste!
Fans of Traditional Mexican red rice would surely appreciate our fruity adaptation. What’s more? This flavorful Mexican Rice with New Mexico Chile pairs perfectly with your favorite tacos, enchiladas or simply enjoyed on its own. I can’t wait for you to take the first bite and get whisked away on a culinary journey to the heat-infused landscapes of Mexico, right in the heart of your kitchen.
What You’ll Need
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
- 8 cups of water (for cooking rice)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium white onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large tomato, chopped
- 1 New Mexico red chile, seeded and finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup chopped fruit (choose from pineapple, mango, or peach)
Method
Step One
Begin by rinsing your rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove any excess starch and will ensure a fluffier final product. Set the rinsed rice aside to drain.
Step Two
In a large saucepan, bring 8 cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed rice and cook until slightly undercooked, about 10 – 12 minutes. After that, drain the rice and set aside.
Step Three
In the same pan, heat up the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent. This should take about 5 minutes.
Step Four
Add the minced garlic to the onion and cook for an additional minute, then add the chopped tomato and the finely chopped New Mexico red chile. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step Five
Add the slightly under-cooked rice back into the pan and stir it well to combine with the other ingredients. Allow the mixture to cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep it from sticking to the pan.
Step Six
Next, pour in the lime juice, followed by the vegetable broth and add salt. Stir to combine all ingredients. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let simmer for about 20 minutes, until the rice has absorbed most of the liquid.
Step Seven
To finish, stir in the chopped cilantro and your choice of chopped fruit, whether it’s pineapple, mango, or peach. Mix well until everything is incorporated, then remove from heat.
Step Eight
Your Mexican Rice with New Mexico Chile is ready to serve! Enjoy this flavorful dish as a side or as a meal in itself. It pairs perfectly with a variety of Mexican cuisine or grilled foods.
