Delicious Mexican Rice Recipe with a Kick!
Hola amigos! Are you ready to take your taste buds on a journey to Mexico with my authentic recipe for Good Rice (Arroz Bueno)? As a chef specializing in Brazilian and American cuisine, I can tell you that this Spanish-style rice dish is muy bueno!
Growing up in the Dominican Republic, arroz con pollo (chicken and rice) was a staple in my household. However, the key to making this dish stand out was to use good rice. That’s where this tried-and-true arroz bueno recipe comes in. Using simple ingredients readily available at your local grocery store, you can create an authentic dish that will transport you to sunny Mexico with just one bite.
But don’t be fooled by its simplicity – cooking the perfect batch of rice can be trickier than it seems. Luckily, I’m here to guide you through each step and provide insider tips that will guarantee perfect results every time. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Hola, amigos! If you’re looking for an easy and foolproof recipe to add to your dinner repertoire, then look no further than my Good Rice (Arroz Bueno) Recipe. This dish is a staple in my kitchen and I’m excited to share it with you today!
First, let me tell you why you’ll love this recipe. This arroz bueno recipe is authentic and inspired by the traditional Mexican white rice that many of us grew up with. It’s a perfect side dish for tacos, burritos, grilled meats, or even enjoyed on its own as a satisfying comfort food.
The ingredients for this recipe are simple- nothing too fancy here. All you need is long-grain white rice, chicken broth, diced onions, garlic, olive oil, butter, salt, parsley and fresh basil. By using quality ingredients like these and following my cooking instructions carefully, you will experience the rich flavor and aromatic goodness of this delicious arroz blanco.
Furthermore, this recipe is versatile and can be customized according to your taste preferences by adding some beans or other veggies to make it even healthier. The possibilities are endless!
One of the best things about this dish is that it’s easy to make. Even if you’re new to cooking or don’t have much time after work during the week- this Recipe has got you covered! In less than 30 minutes on the stovetop- from start to finish -you’ll have a delectable side that will complement any main course perfectly.
So what are you waiting for? Give my Good Rice (Arroz Bueno) Recipe a try today! You won’t regret it. Your taste buds and family will thank you for this delicious addition to your dinner table.
Ingredient List
Here are the key ingredients you’ll need to make a delicious Arroz Bueno (Good Rice) recipe:
- Long-grain white rice (2 cups) – Choose a high quality, long grain variety for the best results. Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch.
- Chicken broth (3 cups) – Use a low-sodium option if available. This will yield a savory flavor which is not overpowering or too salty.
- Yellow onion (1 large, chopped) – Provides necessary sweetness, aroma, and texture.
- Butter (1 tablespoon) – Adds richness and depth to the dish.
- Olive oil (1 cup) – Offers a fruity and floral aroma that complements the onions and garlic.
- Garlic cloves (3, peeled and chopped)– Garlic adds a strong aromatic and bold flavor that can bring out the essence of the entire dish.
- Fresh parsley and basil – Offers a leafy scent that adds contrast as well as vibrant color to this Good Rice recipe.
- Salt – Good seasoning is crucial for creating a balanced dish.
The Recipe How-To
Let’s get started with the most important part of the recipe – making the Good Rice (Arroz Bueno). Before anything else, it’s essential to understand that selecting the right rice for this dish can make or break it. I highly recommend long-grain white rice as they have a firmer texture and are less starchy, which makes them perfect for absorbing flavors.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of long-grain white rice
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- Salt to taste
- A handful of chopped parsley and fresh basil
Instructions:
- Rinse 2 cups of long-grain white rice thoroughly and set it aside.
- In a pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add in the chopped yellow onion, sauté for around 5 minutes until caramelized.
- Next, add the 3 cloves of peeled and chopped garlic into the pot, stirring a few times until fragrant.
- Add the rinsed rice into the pot and stir them with the onions and garlic mixture continuously for about 2 to 3 minutes or until every grain is evenly coated and toasty brown.
- Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth along with a pinch of salt to taste.
- Stir everything well before bringing the mixture to a boil.
- When boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover it tightly with a lid, and let it simmer for approximately 20 minutes or until all liquid is absorbed.
- Turn off the heat, uncover it, let it rest for five minutes before fluffing with a fork.
- Finally, garnish with a handful of chopped parsley and fresh basil before serving.
Tips for Perfect Results:
- To make this Good Rice (Arroz Bueno) more flavorful, you could substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or add diced tomatoes, carrots or peas when adding the rice.
- Always remember to rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch that might make the rice gummy and sticky.
- Keep the pot lid undisturbed during simmering. This action helps to ensure that steam circulates appropriately inside the pot and cooks the rice evenly.
- Use a quality pot or Dutch oven. It will distribute heat evenly so that the arroz doesn’t stick and burn on the bottom.
By following this recipe and my tips, you are guaranteed to have a fragrant and bueno rice dish that will be perfect for any occasion!
Substitutions and Variations
There are endless ways to customize this Good Rice (Arroz Bueno) recipe to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are some substitution ideas and variations to try:
– Long-grain brown rice: If you prefer a heartier texture and nuttier flavor, replace the long-grain white rice with long-grain brown rice. Keep in mind it may require a longer cooking time and more liquid.
– Quinoa: For a protein boost, swap out the rice for quinoa. You’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio, as quinoa cooks faster than rice.
– Vegetable broth: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian or vegan version of this recipe.
– Herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme, oregano or cilantro, instead of parsley and basil for different flavors.
– Garlic and onion powder: If you don’t have fresh garlic or onion on hand, substitute with about 1/4 teaspoon of garlic and onion powder per clove/onion.
– Mexican or yellow rice: Add some color to your table by making Mexican or yellow rice. Just add some diced tomatoes and a pinch of cumin to achieve the desired color and flavor.
– Sweet rice: If you have a sweet tooth, use sweet rice instead of long-grain white rice. This will make a delicious arroz con leche (rice pudding).
Remember that these are just suggestions! Feel free to make any other modifications that fit your taste preferences.
Serving and Pairing
Now that you have mastered making this delectable Good Rice (Arroz Bueno) Recipe, it’s time to think about how you want to serve and pair it. The dish can be a fantastic addition to any mealtime, whether it’s lunch or dinner. Serve the rice as a side dish alongside your favorite chicken or beef tacos, burritos or enchiladas for a satisfying Mexican meal.
You could also serve the good rice with roasted vegetables, chicken or fish for a more well-rounded meal. Try adding some pigeon peas or black beans for an added protein boost. You can also garnish the dish with chopped fresh basil or parsley to add some freshness and brighten up the flavor profiles.
A wonderful thing about this recipe is that you can easily customize it according to specific dietary requirements. For example, it would be easy to make vegetarian by swapping the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and using olive oil instead of butter.
Complement your Good Rice (Arroz Bueno) Recipe with a refreshing beverage such as Coca Cola, iced tea or lemonade. This rice recipe goes well with anything, and you don’t need to worry about finding the perfect drink as it works with many beverages.
Whether you are making this tasty rice for dinner parties, family gatherings or for an everyday meal, it is sure to become one of your favorites if not already. Making this delicious recipe will take your taste buds on an authentic culinary journey across Mexican-inspired cuisine right from your own home!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the best things about this Good Rice (Arroz Bueno) recipe is that you can make it ahead of time and store it for later. This is especially helpful if you’re planning a big gathering or just want to have a quick meal ready to go during the week.
To make ahead, simply prepare the rice as instructed and let it cool to room temperature. Transfer the rice to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the rice in a microwave-safe bowl with a splash of chicken broth or water until heated through.
When it comes to reheating the rice, you have several options. You can use a microwave, stovetop or oven depending on your preference.
Microwave: Simply pour your leftover Good Rice into a microwave-safe dish and add a tablespoon or two of water. Cover with plastic wrap, leaving one corner uncovered for steam to escape. Heat for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
Stovetop: For stovetop reheating, place your rice in a pot with a little bit of liquid such as chicken broth or water. Stir occasionally over medium heat until heated through.
Oven: If you prefer to reheat in the oven, preheat it to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Put the rice in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Remember that as the rice cools, starch molecules will start sticking together again forming lumps. To counter this effect on reheating, be sure to break down any large chunks before reheating and stir occasionally while heating it up.
Overall, this recipe is perfect for those who want delicious, restaurant-quality good rice at home without having to start from scratch every time. By making it ahead of time and storing it properly, you can enjoy it whenever hunger strikes – whether you’re on the go or just want a quick, delicious meal.
Tips for Perfect Results
To achieve a perfect arroz bueno, there are a few tips and tricks that you can keep in mind while preparing it. First, rinse the rice until the water runs clear before cooking it. This will remove any excess starch and prevent it from becoming too sticky or clumpy.
Second, sautéing the rice with onions and garlic before adding liquid to the pot will add a depth of flavor to your dish. This step can be easily overlooked, but it’s worth the extra effort.
Third, don’t be afraid to add more fresh herbs like parsley or basil to your arroz bueno recipe. Not only do they add a pop of color, but they also bring out the bright flavors in the dish.
Fourth, make sure you use a good quality chicken broth to add depth and richness to the dish. I recommend using homemade broth if you have it available, but if not, opt for a high-quality store-bought broth.
Fifth, after adding the liquid, be careful not to stir the rice too much as this can break down the grains and make your arroz bueno mushy. It’s best to leave it undisturbed and let it simmer gently until all of the liquid has been absorbed.
Sixth, once the rice is cooked, fluff it up gently with a fork before serving. This will help separate any stuck-together grains and give your arroz bueno a light and fluffy texture.
Lastly, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Don’t forget that salt is essential in bringing out all other flavors in your dish. Remember to always taste your food as you go!
By following these tips, you’ll be able to make an authentic arroz bueno recipe that is sure to impress everyone at your table.
Bottom Line
Conclusion:
In conclusion, this recipe for Good Rice (Arroz Bueno) is a must-try for anyone who loves Latin cuisine. This recipe’s blend of onions, herbs, chicken broth, and long-grain white rice are sure to create a flavorful and aromatic side dish that will complement any main course.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or just want to enjoy an authentic Latin dish at home, Good Rice (Arroz Bueno) is the perfect recipe for you. With its easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, you’ll be able to make this delicious rice in no time.
So why not give this recipe a try today? Trust us – your taste buds will thank you!
Good Rice (Arroz Bueno) Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup parsley, chopped
- 2 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 1 large onion, chopped
- salt
Instructions
- Melt butter and saute onion until transparent. Add rice and stir constantly until it turns a caramel color.
- Add chicken broth, then parsley, basil and salt. Bring to a boil and lower flame. Cover and steam rice for 18 minutes. Fluff with a large 2 prong fork.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Dora
Dora is a chef well-versed in Brazilian and American cuisine. After a hard day's work in the kitchen of her restaurant, she finds the time to jot down recipes for her food blog. Her recipes are sure to delight foodies everywhere, as she strives to make each one unique and enjoyable to read.