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Easy Mexican Rice

Easy Mexican Rice
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Easy Mexican Rice is a quick, flavorful, and comforting side dish featuring fluffy long grain white rice cooked in a rich tomato base with aromatic spices. Perfect for busy weeknights, this versatile recipe pairs beautifully with tacos, grilled meats, and vegetarian dishes, offering classic Mexican flavors with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Base 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 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt, to taste

Optional Garnishes and Variations

  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • Diced jalapeño or pinch of cayenne powder (for spicy twist)
  • 1/2 cup peas, corn, or diced bell peppers (for veggie boost)
  • Shredded cheddar or queso fresco, to taste (for cheesy upgrade)
  • Fresh lime juice, for serving

Instructions

  1. Toast the Rice: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the rice and toast, stirring frequently, until it turns light golden brown. This adds a nutty flavor and helps prevent mushiness.
  2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add finely chopped onion to the skillet and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook about 30 seconds until fragrant, avoiding burning.
  3. Add Liquid and Seasonings: Pour in tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes along with chicken or vegetable broth. Stir in cumin, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Bring mixture to a gentle boil.
  4. Simmer the Rice: Reduce heat to low, cover skillet with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 18 to 20 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid frequently to ensure even cooking and proper absorption of the liquid.
  5. Fluff and Serve: Remove skillet from heat and let rice sit covered for 5 minutes. Uncover and fluff with a fork. Stir in chopped cilantro if using. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use fresh cumin and chili powder for best flavor.
  • Toasting rice is essential for texture and depth.
  • Keep the lid closed while simmering for optimal cooking.
  • Taste and adjust salt or spices after cooking, if needed.
  • Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth to make it vegetarian or vegan.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican rice, easy side dish, quick rice recipe, flavorful rice, tomato rice, family-friendly rice

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/easy-mexican-rice/