Moe’s Seasoned Rice Recipe

Rice is such a simple yet versatile dish that goes well with just about anything. Growing up, I was pretty picky when it came to rice—I only liked the boxed mixes my mom would buy. But as I got older, I started exploring more flavors and styles of cooking. One memory that stands out is my first visit to Moe’s Southwest Grill. Their seasoned rice was a game changer for me! The blend of spices and that rich, savory taste took rice from boring to something worth savoring.

The first time I tried recreating Moe’s seasoned rice at home, it felt like a challenge, but to my surprise, it turned out so well that even my nephews (who usually aren’t fans of rice) asked for seconds. That’s when I knew I had to make this recipe a regular in my kitchen. The best part? It’s easy to scale up for larger gatherings or to keep as leftovers. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite in my house!

Let’s learn all the process how to make this Moe’s Seasoned Rice Recipe at home.

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful rice:

1. Rice

Use 3/4 cup of long-grain white rice. It gives you that light, fluffy texture that’s perfect for soaking up all the delicious flavors.

2. Cooking Oil

Just 1 tablespoon of neutral oil, like vegetable or canola oil, is enough to toast the rice and add a subtle richness.

3. Garlic Powder

1 teaspoon adds warmth and a mild garlicky flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices.

4. Onion Powder

1 teaspoon gives a deeper, savory base to the rice. It’s like adding the taste of sautéed onions without the chopping!

5. Oregano

Just a pinch of oregano brings a gentle herbaceous aroma that elevates the dish.

6. Cumin

1/2 teaspoon of cumin adds an earthy, smoky note that’s essential for achieving that restaurant-style flavor.

7. Chicken Bouillon Powder

1 tablespoon of chicken bouillon powder works wonders for a savory, umami-packed boost.

8. Salt

Add 1 teaspoon of salt, or adjust it to suit your taste.

9. Tomato Sauce

1/3 cup of tomato sauce gives the rice a hint of tanginess and a lovely reddish color.

10. Chicken Broth

Start with 2 cups of warm chicken broth. You can add up to 1/2 cup more if needed during cooking. This is what makes the rice moist and flavorful.

Possible Substitutions

Cooking is all about flexibility. Here are some substitutions you can use if you’re out of certain ingredients:

1. Rice: You can swap long-grain white rice with basmati or jasmine rice for a slightly different flavor and texture.
2. Chicken Broth: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or water with a pinch of bouillon powder.
3. Tomato Sauce: Crushed tomatoes or tomato paste diluted with water can work in a pinch.
4. Oregano: Dried thyme or basil can be great alternatives.
5. Cumin: If you’re not a fan of cumin, try paprika or chili powder for a different twist.

Kitchen Appliances Needed

• Dutch Oven or Deep Pan: Ideal for even cooking and prevents the rice from sticking.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To keep everything precise.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring without damaging your cookware.
• Lid for the Pan: Crucial for trapping steam and cooking the rice perfectly.

How to Make Moe’s Seasoned Rice

Follow these simple steps to make perfectly seasoned rice:

Step 1 | Toast the Rice

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the rice and toast it until it’s golden brown, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 2 | Add Tomato Sauce

Slowly pour in 1/3 cup of tomato sauce. Stir well to coat the rice evenly and let it sizzle for about 1-2 minutes.

Step 3 | Mix the Spices

Add garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cumin, chicken bouillon, and salt. Stir well to coat the rice with spices.

Step 4 | Pour the Broth

Slowly add warm chicken broth, about 2 cups to start. Stir once to combine.

Step 5 | Simmer

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and cook for 10-15 minutes without stirring.

Step 6 | Check for Doneness

After 10 minutes, check if the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. If needed, add a little more broth and cook for another 5 minutes.

Step 7 | Fluff and Serve

Turn off the heat, let the rice sit for a few minutes. Gently fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. Enjoy!

Tips for Making Perfect Rice

• Rinse the Rice: For fluffier rice, rinse it under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch.
• Use Warm Broth: Warm liquid helps maintain the cooking temperature, ensuring even results.
• Don’t Stir While Cooking: Stirring can make the rice mushy.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the rice to rest before fluffing helps separate the grains.

What to Serve with Seasoned Rice – Perfect Pairings

Mexican-Style Grilled Chicken

My top pick is marinated grilled chicken. Season chicken breasts with lime juice, garlic, and chili powder, then grill until juicy. The citrus notes complement the seasoned rice perfectly, making each bite better than the last.

Pan-Seared Fish

A light piece of white fish like cod or tilapia works wonderfully with this rice. Season the fish with salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika, then pan-sear until flaky. The mild fish lets the rice’s flavors shine while adding protein to your meal.

Roasted Vegetables Medley

Cut bell peppers, zucchini, and onions into similar-sized pieces. Toss with oil and roast until they’re slightly charred. These colorful vegetables add nutrition and a nice crunch that contrasts with the soft rice texture.

Black Beans and Corn

Mix canned black beans with sweet corn kernels, warm them up, and serve alongside the rice. This protein-rich combination turns your rice into a complete meal. The beans add creaminess while the corn brings a touch of sweetness.

Simple Green Salad

Toss fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumber with a light vinaigrette. The cool, crisp salad balances the warm, seasoned rice perfectly. This pairing works great for lunch or a light dinner option.

How to Properly Store Cooked Rice

Storing leftover Moe’s Seasoned Rice properly keeps it fresh and safe to eat. After cooking, let the rice cool down completely within 2 hours – this is important for food safety and prevents excess moisture from building up. Once cooled, transfer the rice into containers with tight-fitting lids. Good containers prevent the rice from drying out and stop any unwanted smells from getting in. The rice will stay fresh in your refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored this way.

Freezing Rice for Longer Storage

For longer storage, freezing works great. Pack the cooled rice into freezer bags, making sure to press out as much air as possible before sealing. Frozen rice stays good for up to 6 months. Don’t forget to write the date on your containers or bags – this helps you track how long it’s been stored.

Reheating Stored Rice

When you’re ready to eat the rice, warm it in the microwave with a small splash of water to bring back its fluffy texture. If using frozen rice, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Properly stored rice tastes almost as good as freshly made, making it perfect for meal prep or saving leftovers.

Moe’s Seasoned Rice Recipe FAQs

1. Why is my rice sticky?

Sticky rice usually means too much water or not enough toasting. Make sure to toast the rice first and use the right amount of liquid. Also, don’t stir while it’s cooking – this releases extra starch.

2. Can I make this rice ahead of time?

This rice keeps well for meal prep. Cook it, let it cool, and store in the fridge. When ready to eat, sprinkle some water on top and microwave until hot.

3. Why do I need to toast the rice?

Toasting adds a nutty flavor and helps keep the grains separate. It also helps the rice absorb the seasonings better.

4. Can I double this recipe?

Yes! Just double all ingredients and use a bigger pot. The cooking time stays about the same.

5. My rice is still crunchy, what went wrong?

Either there wasn’t enough liquid or the heat was too high. Add a bit more warm broth and cook longer on low heat.

6. Can I use basmati or jasmine rice?

Yes, both work well. Just keep the same liquid ratios and cooking times as the recipe states.

Continue to Content

Moe's Seasoned Rice Recipe

Yield: 4 servings

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Make Moe's Seasoned Rice Recipe at home! A flavorful, easy-to-make rice dish with spices, perfect as a side or main dish. Enjoy restaurant-style rice!

Print

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 tablespoon neutral oil (vegetable or canola)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Pinch of oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon powder
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/3 cup tomato sauce
• 2 cups warm chicken broth (up to 2 1/2 cups if needed)

Instructions

1. Toast the Rice: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the rice and toast it, stirring frequently until it turns golden brown.
2. Add Tomato Sauce: Pour in 1/3 cup of tomato sauce. Stir well to coat the rice evenly and let it sizzle for about 1-2 minutes.
3. Mix the Spices: Add garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cumin, chicken bouillon, and salt. Stir well to combine the rice and spices.
4. Pour the Broth: Slowly add 2 cups of warm chicken broth. Stir to combine the rice and broth.
5. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes without stirring.
6. Check for Doneness: After 10 minutes, check if the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender. If not, add more broth (up to 1/2 cup) and cook for another 5 minutes.
7. Fluff and Serve: Turn off the heat, let the rice sit for a few minutes, then fluff with a fork and serve. Enjoy!

Nutrition Information:

Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 180Total Fat: 3gSodium: 680mgCarbohydrates: 36gFiber: 1gSugar: 3gProtein: 4g

Conclusion

I hope you’ll give this Moe’s Seasoned Rice Recipe a try in your kitchen! It’s become my go-to rice dish because it’s so simple yet packed with flavor. The best part is watching people’s faces light up when they taste it – they can’t believe it’s homemade!

Remember, the key is toasting the rice and letting it cook without peeking. Share your cooking pictures with us on comment box, and let me know if you added your own twist to the recipe. Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest, Happy cooking!