Mexican rice is a flavorful side dish made with rice, tomatoes, spices, and often some vegetables.
A microwave Mexican rice recipe makes it quick and easy to enjoy this delicious dish without needing to watch over a stove.
In this article, we’ll walk you through a simple microwave method to cook Mexican rice, covering all the essentials.
This article will provide you with a detailed microwave Mexican rice recipe, including the ingredients, essential tools, step-by-step cooking instructions, and tips for perfect results. We’ll also answer some frequently asked questions and explore various ways to customize the recipe.
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Recipe Overview
| Prep time | Cook time | Total time | Serving | Calories | Microwave Power Settings |
| 5 minutes | 15 minutes | 20 minutes | 4 | 220 | 800 watts |
Ingredients
This section will outline the ingredients required to cook Mexican rice in the microwave. You will need just a few ingredients for this simple and quick microwave recipe.
Let’s take a look:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tomato, chopped (or 1/2 cup tomato sauce)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Now that we have the ingredients, let’s explore the essential tools needed for a smooth and efficient microwave cooking experience.
check out microwave jasmine rice recipe.
Tools for Cooking Mexican Rice in Microwave
Microwave cooking can be dangerous if suitable tools are not being used. Using proper microwave-safe tools is essential to avoid accidents.
A list of safe microwave tools needed for cooking Mexican rice is enlisted following:
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Microwave-safe lid or plate (to cover)
- Spoon or spatula for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
With all the ingredients and tools ready, it’s time to start cooking.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that you have gathered all the necessary ingredients and prepared the right tools, you’re ready to begin cooking.
Follow these simple steps to cook the fluffy Mexican rice in the microwave.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the rice, olive oil, onion, and garlic.
- Microwave the mixture uncovered on high for 2 minutes to sauté the onion and garlic.
- Add the chopped tomato (or tomato sauce), chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the bowl.
- Stir everything well and cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plate.
- Microwave the rice on high for 12 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Stir the rice halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Once the rice is done, let it sit for 2-3 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
A perfectly fluffy Mexican rice is cooked in 15 minutes. Once cooked, you can serve the rice as a side dish with grilled meats or tacos.
You can also add a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, or cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
After exploring the detailed step-by-step cooking method, let’s dive into some essential tips for safe microwave cooking.
Tips to Cook Perfect Mexican Rice in Microwave
Now that you know how to make Mexican rice in the microwave, here are some pro tips to help you avoid kitchen mishaps and achieve the best results with your recipe:
- Adjust for wattage: Microwaves vary in power. Adjust the cooking time if your microwave has a different wattage.
- Stir halfway through: Stirring the rice halfway through cooking ensures even heat distribution and prevents burning.
- Use a tight-fitting lid: A lid or plate will trap steam, which helps the rice cook evenly and prevents it from drying out.
- Let it sit: Let the rice sit covered for a few minutes after cooking to allow the steam to finish cooking the rice.
- Check liquid absorption: If the rice isn’t done after the recommended time, add a little more liquid and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
With safety tips covered, let’s now look at some different ways to cook Mexican rice in the microwave.
Check out microwave fried rice recipe.
5 Quick & Easy Mexican Rice Recipes in Microwave
A variety of microwave Mexican rice recipes can be a game-changer for busy days, offering flexibility while keeping meals nutritious.
There are several creative variations of this recipe that make it easy to customize your meal.
In this section, we will explore five fast and easy cooking recipes to cook Mexican rice in the microwave.
1. Mexican Cilantro Lime Rice
For a zesty twist, this cilantro lime version incorporates fresh cilantro and lime juice. Simply add chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime after the rice is cooked. It adds freshness and brightness, perfect to complement any Mexican meal like tacos or grilled chicken.
2. Spicy Mexican Rice with Jalapeños
This variation adds heat with fresh or pickled jalapeños. By mixing the chopped peppers with the rice before cooking, you can control the spice level. A great choice for those who enjoy a little extra kick in their meals.
3. Cheesy Mexican Rice
For a creamy and indulgent side, this variation adds shredded cheese to the rice just before it finishes cooking. Stir the cheese into the hot rice until it melts, creating a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or beans.
4. Mexican Rice with Corn & Peas
Incorporating sweet corn and peas gives a vibrant color and added sweetness. Mix frozen corn and peas into the rice before cooking to enhance the dish’s texture. This variation is an excellent way to sneak in extra veggies while keeping the flavors balanced.
5. Vegan Mexican Rice
For a plant-based version, swap chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit any dairy. Add a few extra spices like smoked paprika or turmeric to boost flavor.
It’s perfect for vegan diets and pairs beautifully with grilled veggies or plant-based proteins.
These variations provide different flavor profiles, ensuring that you never get bored of your microwave Mexican rice. With so many alternatives available, you can always find something to suit your cravings.
Check out microwave coconut rice recipe.
This sums up our section of microwave recipe variations. Now, we will move forward with some of the common queries regarding cooking Mexican rice in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Let’s address some of the most common questions about this recipe. This section ensures you have all the details you need for well-cooked Mexican rice.
How do you prevent Mexican rice from being too dry in the microwave?
Yes, you can prevent dry rice by adding enough liquid. Ensure the correct rice-to-liquid ratio—typically 1 cup rice to 1 ½ cups broth. Cover the dish to trap steam and check halfway through cooking to stir and add more liquid if needed.
Can you use brown rice for microwave Mexican rice?
Yes, brown rice can be used, but it requires more liquid and a longer cooking time. Brown rice typically needs 2 cups of liquid per cup of rice. Adjust the cooking time to 20-25 minutes for a soft and tender result.
Can you make Mexican rice ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Mexican rice ahead of time. Once cooked, let it cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of broth to refresh the texture.
How do you make Mexican rice more flavorful?
Yes, you can make it more flavorful by adding extra spices or vegetables. Incorporate ingredients like garlic, cumin, chili powder, or diced tomatoes. These additions will bring out a richer taste and enhance the dish’s authenticity.
Is it necessary to cover the rice while microwaving?
Yes, it is important to cover the rice while microwaving. This traps the steam, which helps cook the rice evenly and prevents it from drying out. Use a microwave-safe lid or plate to cover the bowl.
This wraps up our section on frequently asked questions about microwave Mexican rice recipe.
Final Word
Exploring different microwave Mexican rice variations can add variety to your meals while keeping the cooking process quick and easy. From cilantro lime rice to a cheesy version, you have numerous options. These variations offer flexibility, allowing you to enjoy different flavors every time.
