The exact number of calories in 2 tablespoons of Mexican rice is not a fixed figure, and can vary substantially depending on how it's prepared and the ingredients used. For instance, a simple two-tablespoon serving of plain, cooked white rice is approximately 60 calories, but Mexican rice adds a variety of other ingredients that can increase or decrease the overall calorie count. Understanding the factors at play is crucial for anyone monitoring their calorie intake.
The Calorie Confusion: Why the Numbers Vary So Much
The wide range of calorie counts for Mexican rice is mainly due to the preparation method. A low-calorie pre-packaged version is a very different food item than a homemade recipe rich with oil, or a calorie-dense restaurant side dish.
Pre-packaged Mexican Rice
Certain brands offer explicitly low-calorie versions. For example, 'A Dozen Cousins Mexican Red Rice' famously contains only 10 calories for a 2-tablespoon serving. These products are typically formulated with minimal fat and a focus on keeping caloric density low. While convenient, they often lack the flavor depth of a traditionally prepared Mexican rice. Always check the nutrition label, as other brands will differ.
Homemade Mexican Rice
Making Mexican rice at home gives you complete control over the ingredients, but this also means the calories will vary with every recipe. A basic homemade recipe might call for two tablespoons of oil to toast the rice, adding a significant amount of fat and calories that a store-bought brand might omit. Estimates for homemade Mexican rice can be around 110–140 calories per half-cup serving, which translates to a much higher count for 2 tablespoons than the pre-packaged alternative.
Restaurant Mexican Rice
Restaurant-style Mexican rice is often the most calorie-dense version. To achieve that signature rich, flavorful taste, restaurants frequently use generous amounts of oil, butter, and sometimes cheese or other high-fat ingredients. This can push the calorie count per cup significantly higher than a homemade version, sometimes containing 300–400 calories per cup. For individuals counting calories, this is an important distinction to remember when dining out.
Calorie Comparison: Homemade vs. Store-Bought vs. Restaurant
To illustrate the wide variation in calories, here is a comparison based on a typical 2-tablespoon serving size. These are estimates and will vary by recipe and brand.
| Type of Mexican Rice | Estimated Calories per 2 Tbsp | Factors Influencing Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Low-Cal Store-Bought | ~10-20 | Minimal oil, pre-portioned, no added fat |
| Homemade (Typical Recipe) | ~70-90 | Amount of oil used, type of rice, vegetable additions |
| Restaurant-Style | ~90-120+ | Higher fat content from oil and butter, potential cheese additions |
| Plain Cooked White Rice | ~60 | No added fat or ingredients, baseline reference |
How to Reduce Calories in Homemade Mexican Rice
If you enjoy homemade Mexican rice but want a healthier version, several modifications can help control the calorie count without sacrificing flavor.
- Use Less Oil: Cut down the amount of oil used for toasting the rice. You can use a cooking spray instead or toast the rice in a dry pan. As discussed on Eat Thrive Glow, reducing the oil is one of the most effective ways to lower calories.
- Swap White Rice for Brown Rice: Opting for long-grain brown rice adds more fiber and nutrients while keeping the calorie count per portion slightly lower. The added fiber can also help you feel full longer.
- Incorporate More Vegetables: Adding more non-starchy vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, or peas can increase the volume of the dish without significantly boosting calories. This also adds valuable nutrients and fiber.
- Utilize Low-Sodium Broth: Using a low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth enhances the flavor of the rice, allowing you to reduce salt and other sodium-rich ingredients without losing taste.
Healthy Alternatives to Traditional Mexican Rice
For those looking for an even more significant reduction in calories and carbohydrates, several excellent alternatives exist:
- Cauliflower Rice: Riced cauliflower is a popular low-carb, low-calorie alternative that mimics the texture of rice very well. It can be seasoned with traditional Mexican spices to create a flavorful and healthy side dish.
- Mexican Quinoa: Quinoa is a high-protein, high-fiber seed that can be prepared with Mexican flavors. It has a slightly different texture but is a nutritious and filling option.
- Mexican Seasoned Cabbage Rice: A raw vegan alternative made from shredded cabbage offers a very low-calorie, high-fiber option with classic Mexican spices.
Conclusion
When asking "How many calories are in 2 tablespoons of Mexican rice?," it's clear there is no single answer. The calorie count depends entirely on the preparation, with pre-packaged, homemade, and restaurant versions offering vastly different nutritional profiles. Homemade rice provides the most flexibility for calorie control, allowing you to use healthier ingredients like brown rice and less oil. For those seeking the lowest calorie options, store-bought brands or vegetable-based alternatives like cauliflower rice are the best choices.
