Description
This easy Mexican rice recipe is a flavorful and vibrant side dish made by toasting rice with aromatic onions and garlic, then simmering it in a tomato and spice-infused broth. Perfect for pairing with Mexican meals or enjoying on its own, it’s quick to prepare in about 30 minutes and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice & Broth
- 1 cup white long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
Aromatics & Sauce
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce or 1 cup diced tomatoes (adjust liquid if using diced)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or olive)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Diced jalapeños or hot sauce (for extra spice, optional)
- Chopped bell peppers, corn, or peas (for extra veggies, optional)
- Shredded cheese (to stir in before serving, optional)
- Brown rice (substitute, adjust cooking time and broth accordingly)
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and translucent. This step builds the flavor base for the dish.
- Toast the Rice: Add the white rice to the skillet and stir to coat the grains evenly with oil and aromatics. Toast the rice for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until it becomes slightly golden. This enhances texture and flavor.
- Add Tomato and Spices: Pour in tomato sauce or diced tomatoes along with ground cumin and chili powder. Stir well to combine, allowing the rice to absorb the tomato base and spices.
- Pour in Broth and Simmer: Add chicken or vegetable broth to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat. Fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate grains. Stir in chopped fresh cilantro for a fresh finish before serving. Optionally add diced jalapeños, extra veggies, or shredded cheese as desired.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce during cooking or as a garnish.
- Extra vegetables like chopped bell peppers, corn, or peas can be stirred in for added color and nutrition.
- Use brown rice as a healthier alternative but increase cooking time and broth volume accordingly.
- Leftover rice can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated gently with a splash of broth or water.
