You will LOVE this Vegan Mexican Rice recipe! This recipe uses simple ingredients that you probably have in your pantry. The rice cooks up quickly and is the perfect side dish for any occasion.
Serve this up with a side of refried beans or black beans for a perfect combination!
Something amazing happens when flavors, memories, and traditions come together. Today, I’m excited to share with you a cherished recipe inspired by the heart and soul of home-cooked meals – my mom’s unforgettable Vegan Mexican Rice recipe. Picture yourself in a warm kitchen, surrounded by the comforting aromas that bring back memories of shared meals and laughter. Join me in recreating not just a recipe, but a piece of home, love, and the joy found in every bite. Let’s dive into the simplicity, the stories, and the pure deliciousness that make this dish a celebration of family and flavor. Get ready to savor the taste of homemade happiness!
This post is all about a Free and Easy Vegan Mexican Rice Recipe
This easy Mexican rice recipe is inspired by the comforting flavors of homemade dishes. Enjoy creating something truly special in your own kitchen with this easy-to-follow recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1.5 tablespoons avocado oil (substitute with olive oil or vegan butter)
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped (you can substitute red onion)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced canned tomatoes, undrained (substitute with 1/4 cup of tomato sauce if you don’t want the chunky tomatoes in the rice)
- 2 cups vegetable broth (I used water with a vegan chicken stock cube)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse and Toast the Rice:
- Rinse the long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the rice and toast it until it turns a light golden brown, stirring frequently. You don’t want to burn it.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic:
- Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for about a minute. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add Tomatoes:
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir well to combine with the rice, onions, and garlic.
- Seasoning:
- Add the ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper over the rice mixture. Stir to evenly distribute the seasonings.
- Simmer with Broth:
- Pour in the vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle low boil.
- Simmer and Cover:
- Reduce the temperature to a low heat, cover the skillet with a lid, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. My perfect time is about 18 minutes.
- Fluff and Rest:
- Once the rice is cooked, turn off the heat, leave the skillet covered, and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the remaining liquid to be absorbed. Fluff it with a fork.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Optionally, garnish the Mexican rice with fresh cilantro before serving.
This homemade Mexican rice is a comforting and flavorful side dish, perfect to complement a variety of Mexican-inspired meals.
Tips and tricks for this Vegan Mexican Rice Recipe
Here are some tips and tricks to help you make this easy vegan mexican rice recipe:
- Rinse the Rice: Rinsing the long grain rice under cold running water removes excess starch, preventing it from becoming too sticky during cooking. Rinse three times – until the water runs semi-clear.
- Toast the Rice Well: Toasting the rice in oil adds a nutty flavor and helps each grain stay separate. Ensure the rice turns a light golden brown, but be cautious not to burn it.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions and garlic cloves contribute significantly to the best flavor. Consider using freshly diced tomatoes for an extra burst of freshness.
- Quality Broth: If possible, use a flavorful vegetable stock or vegetable broth. The quality of the broth can greatly impact the overall taste of the rice.
- Seasoning Balance: Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. If you like it spicier, add extra spices like a pinch of cayenne pepper or use hot chili powder.
- Simmering Time: Allow the rice to simmer gently (on a low boil) after adding the broth. This slow cooking process helps the rice absorb the flavors without becoming mushy.
- Avoid Overstirring: Once the rice is simmering, try to avoid stirring too frequently. Over-stirring can cause the rice to become sticky.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the rice to rest off the heat, covered, after cooking lets it finish absorbing any remaining liquid and enhances the flavors.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the rice just before serving. It adds a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve with Lime Wedges: Provide lime wedges on the side for a citrusy kick. Squeezing lime juice over the rice before eating can elevate the flavors.
How to store you Vegan Mexican Rice
Here are four tips on how to store cooked Mexican rice to maintain its freshness and flavor:
- Airtight Container: Transfer the cooked rice into an airtight container. A container with a tight-fitting lid helps prevent exposure to air, which can lead to the rice drying out.
- Refrigerate Promptly: Refrigerate the cooked rice as soon as it reaches room temperature. This helps ensure food safety and will maintain its delicious flavor.
- Portion Control: Consider portioning the rice into smaller containers or resealable bags before storing. This allows you to take out only the amount you need for each meal, minimizing the need for repeated reheating.
- Use Within 4-5 Days: Consume the stored Mexican rice within 4-5 days. Storing it in the refrigerator and adhering to a short shelf life helps ensure its safety and quality.
Bonus Tip: For longer storage, consider freezing the rice in airtight freezer-safe bags or containers. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the containers with the date for easy tracking.
By following these tips, you can maintain the texture and flavor of your cooked Mexican rice, ensuring it remains a delicious and safe addition to your meals.
What else can you use this Vegan Mexican Rice for?
Transform your Vegetarian Mexican Rice into the star of your dining experience with endless serving possibilities. Whether as a flavorful base for customizable burrito bowls, a delightful stuffing for vibrant stuffed peppers, or a delicious filling for hearty enchiladas. Elevate your meals by exploring the versatility of this rice, turning every dish into a celebration of rich Mexican flavors.
The versatile nature of Vegetarian Mexican Rice makes it a fantastic ingredient for various dishes. Here are some creative ways to use this flavorful rice.
Ready to get creative?
- Burrito Bowls: Serve a generous portion of the Mexican rice as a base for a perfect burrito bowl. Top with black beans (or pinto beans), salsa, guacamole, vegan cheese, and your favorite protein like grilled chicken or tofu.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Mix the Mexican rice with black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Stuff the mixture into the green bell peppers, sprinkle with cheese, and bake until the peppers are tender.
- Vegan Enchiladas: Use Mexican rice as a filling for vegetarian enchiladas. Roll the rice along with black beans and vegan cheese in tortillas, top with enchilada sauce, and bake until bubbly.
- Quesadillas: Spread a layer of Mexican rice on a tortilla, add some vegan cheese or cheddar cheese, sautéed vegetables, and optionally some beans. Top with another tortilla and cook on the lowest heat until the cheese is melted. Serve with a side of guacamole.
- Taco Filling: Spoon the Mexican rice into taco shells or tortillas. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, salsa, and your favorite toppings for a quick and flavorful taco.
- Mexican Rice Casserole: Combine the leftover rice with black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and cheese. Bake the mixture in a casserole dish until it’s heated through and the cheese is melted.
- Vegetarian Burritos: Fill large tortillas with Mexican rice, black beans, or pinto beans, sautéed vegetables, cheese, and salsa. Roll them up to create delicious and hearty vegetarian burritos.
- Mexican Rice Toppings: Use the Mexican rice as a side dish and let everyone customize their plate with toppings like avocado slices, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges.
This post was all about a Free and Easy Vegan Mexican Rice Recipe
Now that you’ve discovered the secrets and stories behind this delicious Vegetarian Mexican Rice, it’s your turn to bring it to life in your kitchen. Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let the aroma of tradition fill your home. I would love to hear about your experience – the laughter shared, the memories created, and, of course, the delightful flavors experienced.
Here’s how you can join the conversation:
- Comment Below: Share your thoughts, questions, or any personal touches you added to make this recipe your own.
- Social Media: Snap a picture of your culinary creation and tag me on social media. Let’s create a gallery of shared moments!
- Spread the Love: Share this recipe with friends and family who appreciate a taste of homemade nostalgia.
Thank you for being a part of this journey. Here’s to the joy of cooking, the warmth of shared stories, and the delicious moments that connect us all. Oh, and if you’re looking for a free recipe on how to make this rice in an instant pot pressure cooker, Check out this recipe CLICK HERE.
Happy Cooking – Talk soon!
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