AUTHENTIC MEXICAN FRIED RICE: A FLAVORFUL TWIST ON A CLASSIC

Welcome to our kitchen! Today, we’re excited to share with you a delicious twist on a beloved dish – Mexican Fried Rice. This vibrant and hearty dish is infused with the bold flavors of Mexico, making it the perfect complement to any meal or a standout dish on its own. Let’s dive into this recipe that brings together the warmth of traditional Mexican ingredients with the comforting texture of fried rice.

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old for best texture)

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)

1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

1 cup black beans (cooked and drained)

1 large tomato, diced

1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (adjust to taste)

2 teaspoons ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon chili powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1 lime, cut into wedges

Optional: 1 cup cooked chicken, beef, or shrimp (for added protein)

Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheese

(like queso fresco or Monterey Jack)

Instructions:

Prepare the Rice: If you’re using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool and dry slightly. Day-old rice works best as it’s less sticky and fries up nicely.

Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.

Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Cook the Vegetables: Add the diced bell pepper and jalapeño to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.

Add the Rice and Seasonings: Stir in the cooked rice, corn, and black beans. Sprinkle in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook, stirring frequently, until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy in some spots, about 5-7 minutes.

Incorporate the Tomato and Protein (if using): Gently fold in the diced tomato and cooked protein (if using). Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.

Finish with Fresh Herbs: Stir in the chopped cilantro just before serving. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve: Transfer the fried rice to a serving dish and garnish with extra cilantro if desired. Serve with lime wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze of citrus that brightens up the flavors.

Optional Toppings:

For an extra touch, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top just before serving. It will melt slightly and add a delicious creamy element to your fried rice.

Tips for Perfection:

• Rice Consistency: For the best results, use cold, day-old rice. It’s less sticky and fries up better. If you’re using freshly cooked rice, let it cool completely before using.

• Customize Your Protein: Feel free to use leftover grilled chicken, beef, or shrimp. Just add it to the skillet after cooking the vegetables.

• Adjust Heat: If you prefer a milder dish, use less jalapeño or omit it altogether. For more heat, leave the seeds in or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

We hope you enjoy this vibrant and flavorful Mexican Fried Rice as much as we do! It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the rich flavors of Mexico with the convenience of a one-pan meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side to your favorite Mexican dishes.

Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations with us on social media! ¡Buen provecho! 🌮🌟