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Mexican Rice Recipe 1
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Mexican Rice Recipe

This authentic Mexican rice recipe offers a fluffy, flavorful side dish with a rich tomato base and aromatic spices, perfect for pairing with a variety of Mexican-inspired meals.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: Easy, Gluten-Free, Quick, Vegan
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 large tomato chopped (or 1/2 cup canned pureed tomatoes)
  • 1 3/4 cups vegetable broth or water
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for heat
  • 1 teaspoon salt to taste (about 1 teaspoon)
  • Fresh cilantro chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • Lime wedges optional, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Rinse the Rice

  • Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky or clumpy. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Rice and Aromatics

  • Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the rice and cook, stirring frequently, until it turns a light golden brown. This toasting step adds a nutty flavor and helps keep the grains separate. Next, add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Spices

  • Stir in the chopped or pureed tomatoes, ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and the spices to bloom, releasing their full aroma.

Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer

  • Pour in the vegetable broth or water and give everything a good stir. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid and let it simmer gently for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been fully absorbed.

Step 5: Rest and Fluff

  • Once done, remove the pot from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to steam and become perfectly fluffy. Finally, fluff the rice gently with a fork.

Step 6: Serve

  • Garnish the rice with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness. Enjoy alongside your favorite Mexican dishes!

Equipment

  • Medium Saucepan
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Fork

Notes

Use long-grain rice for best results. Toast the rice before cooking to add depth and prevent mushiness. Simmer gently with the lid on to cook evenly. Adjust spices to your preference. Fresh tomatoes provide a brighter flavor than canned. Variations include adding vegetables, fresh herbs, jalapeños, cheese, or substituting brown rice with adjusted cooking times.