Rice with oranges is a delightful dish that brings a citrus twist to your usual rice recipes. This recipe is perfect for those who love to experiment in the kitchen and want to add a burst of freshness to their meals. Why is this dish great? It’s a unique combination of sweet and savory flavors that can elevate any meal. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be paired with various main courses or enjoyed as a standalone dish.
Trivia: Did you know that the zest of an orange contains more flavor than its juice? This is because the essential oils in the zest are highly concentrated, giving it a strong, aromatic essence.
Yields, Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, and Calories per Serving
| Yields | 4 servings |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
| Calories per Serving | 220 calories |
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 1/2 cups fresh orange juice
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by rinsing the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a medium-sized saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Step 3: Add the Rice and Liquids
Pour the rinsed rice into the saucepan with the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir well to coat the rice with the oil and aromatics. Add the orange juice, water, and orange zest to the pan. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Cook the Rice
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.
Step 5: Fluff and Garnish
Remove the pan from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Total Fat | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 10mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 8g |
| Protein | 3g |
To see a visual demonstration of a similar recipe, check out this video:
Tips and Variations
- Shortcuts: Use pre-packaged orange zest if you’re short on time.
- Variations: Add some dried cranberries or chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Swaps: Substitute brown rice for a healthier alternative, but note that cooking times will vary.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Medium-sized saucepan with lid
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover rice with oranges in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or heat on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Food and Drink Pairings
This flavorful rice with oranges pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, seafood, or even a hearty vegetable stir-fry. For drinks, consider serving with a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing citrusy cocktail.
We hope you enjoy this unique and delightful recipe! If you love it as much as we do, please share it with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is rice at Mexican restaurants orange?
A: The orange color in Mexican rice typically comes from the use of tomato sauce or tomato paste, along with spices like cumin and annatto that add both color and flavor.
Q: What can I mix with rice to make it taste better?
A: To enhance the flavor of rice, you can mix in ingredients like sautéed onions, garlic, herbs, spices, broth instead of water, or even fruits like oranges for a sweet and savory twist.
Q: What is orange rice made of?
A: Orange rice is made by cooking rice with orange juice, orange zest, and other complementary ingredients like onions, garlic, and olive oil to create a flavorful and aromatic dish.
Q: How many calories are in Mexican orange rice?
A: The calorie content of Mexican orange rice can vary, but a typical serving contains approximately 200-250 calories, depending on the ingredients used.
