Olivia Carter
If you’re craving a delicious and authentic Mexican rice, but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, then cooking it in a slow cooker is the perfect solution! Mexican rice, also known as “arroz rojo,” is a flavorful side dish that pairs well with tacos, enchiladas, and grilled meats.
By using a slow cooker, you can achieve perfectly cooked rice with just a few simple steps. The slow cooker allows the rice to absorb all the flavors from the spices and vegetables, resulting in a dish that is fluffy, aromatic, and bursting with Mexican flavors.
This recipe for Mexican rice in a slow cooker is not only easy to make, but it also requires minimal prep time. All you need are some basic pantry staples like rice, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices, and you’re set to create a delicious and satisfying side dish that will impress your family and friends.
So, if you’re ready to elevate your Mexican cuisine game and learn how to cook Mexican rice in a slow cooker, grab your apron and let’s get started!
Preparing for Mexican Rice
Before you start cooking Mexican rice in a slow cooker, there are a few key steps you need to take to ensure your dish turns out perfectly. The following steps will help you prepare for making authentic and delicious Mexican rice.
1. Gathering Ingredients
First, gather all the necessary ingredients for the recipe. You will need:
- 2 cups of long-grain white rice
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup of finely diced onion
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnishes: chopped cilantro, lime wedges
2. Preparing the Rice
Next, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This will remove any excess starch from the grains and prevent them from becoming sticky. Drain the rice well.
In a separate pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until they are softened and just starting to brown.
Stir in the cumin and chili powder, coating the onion and garlic mixture evenly. Cook for an additional minute to release the flavors.
Now, add the diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir well to combine the ingredients.
Finally, add the rinsed and drained rice to the pan, stirring to coat it with the tomato mixture. Cook for a few minutes to allow the rice to toast slightly.
Transfer the rice mixture to your slow cooker.
Note: This step is optional but recommended. Browning the rice before transferring it to the slow cooker adds a depth of flavor to the final dish.
Gather the Ingredients and Tools
Before you start cooking Mexican rice in a slow cooker, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients and tools. Here is a list of what you will need:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chilies
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Tools:
- Slow cooker
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Garlic press
- Can opener
- Wooden spoon
Having all the ingredients and tools ready will make the cooking process much smoother and enjoyable. Make sure to double-check your pantry and kitchen drawers to ensure you have everything you need.
Wash the Rice
Before you start cooking the Mexican rice in a slow cooker, it’s essential to wash the rice thoroughly. Washing the rice helps remove any excess starch, which can make the rice stick together when cooked. It also helps remove impurities and any dirt that might be present on the grains.
To wash the rice, measure out the desired amount and place it in a fine-mesh colander. Rinse the rice under cold running water, using your fingers to gently swish the grains. Continue rinsing until the water runs clear, indicating that the rice is clean.
Once the rice is washed, transfer it to a mixing bowl and let it soak in water for about 15 minutes. Soaking helps to hydrate the grains and allows for more even cooking.
Cooking Mexican Rice in a Slow Cooker
If you love Mexican cuisine and want to try making Mexican rice at home, using a slow cooker is a great option. Slow cookers are known for their convenience and the ability to cook food slowly, allowing flavors to develop. With a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can easily make delicious and authentic Mexican rice.
Sautee the Onions and Garlic
To begin making Mexican rice in a slow cooker, start by sauteeing the onions and garlic. This step helps to enhance the flavors of the dish and adds a delicious aroma to your kitchen.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add some olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic cloves. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the oil.
Cook Until Fragrant
Cook the onions and garlic until they turn translucent and fragrant. This usually takes about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent them from burning.
Transfer to the Slow Cooker
Once the onions and garlic are cooked, transfer them to the slow cooker. Make sure to scrape off any browned bits from the skillet as they add extra flavor to the dish.
You can now move on to the next step of preparing the Mexican rice in your slow cooker.
Add the Rice and Cook
Once the vegetables have softened, it’s time to add the rice. Measure out 1 cup of long-grain white rice and add it to the slow cooker. Make sure to give it a good stir, ensuring that the rice is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Next, add the chicken broth and tomato sauce to the slow cooker. You’ll need 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of tomato sauce. Stir everything together until well combined.
Now it’s time to let the slow cooker do its magic. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for about 2 to 3 hours, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid. Avoid opening the lid during this time, as it can affect the cooking process.
Tip: If you prefer a spicier rice, you can add a diced jalapeno or a teaspoon of chili powder to the rice mixture before cooking.
Once the rice is fully cooked, fluff it with a fork before serving. Serve hot as a side dish with your favorite Mexican main course, and enjoy!
Add the Tomatoes and Broth
Once the onion and garlic are cooked and fragrant, it’s time to add the tomatoes and broth to the slow cooker. This step is essential for giving the Mexican rice its rich and tangy flavor.
Start by adding 1 cup of diced tomatoes to the slow cooker. You can use fresh tomatoes, but if they’re not in season, canned diced tomatoes will work just as well. Make sure to include the juices from the can for maximum flavor.
Next, add 2 cups of chicken broth to the slow cooker. The broth will provide the necessary liquid for the rice to cook properly and absorb all the flavors. You can use either homemade or store-bought broth, whichever you prefer.
For an extra kick of flavor, you can also add a splash of hot sauce or a diced jalapeño pepper to the slow cooker. This will give the Mexican rice a spicy and vibrant taste. However, if you prefer a milder rice, you can omit these ingredients.
Give everything a good stir to ensure that the tomatoes and broth are well combined. This will ensure that the rice cooks evenly and absorbs all the flavors. Place the lid on the slow cooker and let the rice cook on low heat for 2 to 3 hours, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Serving and Enjoying Mexican Rice
Once your Mexican rice is cooked and ready to be served, there are a few different ways to enjoy it. Whether you serve it as a main dish or as a side, it is sure to be a hit at any meal.
Serving Suggestions
Here are a few serving suggestions that will complement your Mexican rice:
| 1. Main Dish: | Serve your Mexican rice as a main dish by adding some protein, such as grilled chicken or beef, on top. You can also top it with some shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro for added flavor. |
| 2. Side Dish: | Mexican rice makes a delicious side dish for any Mexican or Tex-Mex meal. Serve it alongside dishes like tacos, enchiladas, or fajitas. It also pairs well with refried beans and guacamole. |
| 3. Burrito Filling: | You can use Mexican rice as a filling for burritos. Simply warm up some tortillas, spoon the rice onto the tortilla, and add your choice of protein, veggies, and toppings. Roll up the burrito and enjoy! |
Enhancing the Flavor
To enhance the flavor of your Mexican rice even more, consider adding some additional ingredients:
- Chopped tomatoes for added freshness and a burst of acidity.
- Corn kernels for a touch of sweetness and crunch.
- Diced bell peppers for a pop of color and extra flavor.
- Chopped jalapenos or hot sauce for some heat.
Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to make your Mexican rice uniquely your own.
Now that you know how to cook Mexican rice in a slow cooker and how to serve and enjoy it, it’s time to get cooking. Gather your ingredients, set up your slow cooker, and let it do the work while you enjoy the delicious aroma that fills your kitchen. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, Mexican rice is a versatile and satisfying dish that everyone will love.
FAQ
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice instead of white rice in this recipe. However, keep in mind that brown rice typically requires a longer cooking time than white rice, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Do I need to cook the rice before adding it to the slow cooker?
No, you do not need to cook the rice before adding it to the slow cooker. The rice will cook along with the other ingredients in the slow cooker, absorbing the flavors and becoming tender.
Can I add vegetables like corn or peas to the Mexican rice?
Yes, you can definitely add vegetables like corn or peas to the Mexican rice. Adding extra vegetables can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the dish. Simply add the vegetables along with the other ingredients in the slow cooker and cook as directed.
How long does it take to cook Mexican rice in a slow cooker?
It typically takes about 2-3 hours to cook Mexican rice in a slow cooker on high heat, or 4-6 hours on low heat. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the brand and model of your slow cooker, so it’s always a good idea to check the rice for doneness before serving.
