Authentic Mexican Rice

In my opinion there are two Mexican sides that are a must with nearly every Mexican entree, beans and Mexican rice. This recipe is my go to Mexican Rice recipe that I've been making for years. I make it at least once a week, some weeks as many as three times a week. It only takes a few minutes to prepare and it tastes just as good as any authentic Mexican restaurants Mexican rice. I have tried several different recipes for Mexican rice and this one is definitely my favorite. I've tried using tomato sauce and fresh tomatoes but I think the key to great authentic Mexican rice is the Caldo de Tomate. You can find it in the Latin section of the grocery store. My sister gave me the recipe and I added my own additions to it, you will see them where I listed optional ingredients. This rice can be made with or without those but I love the extra boost of flavor they give the rice. Also, I used to always use vegetable oil but I've tried to be a bit healthier =) so I've switched over to olive oil so just use which ever you prefer. I hope you love this rice and that it becomes a staple in your home as well. Enjoy!

Authentic Mexican Rice
Yields about 4 servings

Ingredients:
1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil or vegetable oil
1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
2 cups warm water
1 1/2 tsp Caldo de Tomate (I use Knorr brand)

Optional ingredients:
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1/4 tsp chili powder

Directions:
In a mixing bowl whisk together water, Caldo de Tomate, optional onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper and chili powder, set aside. Drizzle oil into a non-stick saucepan and heat over medium high heat.  Add rice and cook several minutes, stirring constantly until rice is slightly puffed and golden. Add water mixture to rice then stir and cover pan with lid.  Reduce heat to low and allow rice to simmer for 20-25 minutes until water has been absorbed (you'll notice water bubbles stop coming to the surface). Remove from heat, fluff rice with a fork, cover with lid and allow to rest 5 minutes. Serve warm.

Note: I also love this rice served with a drizzle of sour cream, a few dashes of Mexican hot sauce (such as Tapatio) and some fresh guacamole. Just a few more flavor boosters I sometimes add that are optional.

Recipe Source: Cooking Classy