Description
This homemade Mexican rice recipe delivers a flavorful and aromatic side dish that’s perfect for any Mexican meal. Toasted long-grain white rice is cooked with sautéed onions and garlic, simmered in a rich tomato sauce and broth blend, infused with cumin, chili powder, and paprika, resulting in fluffy, vibrant rice with a subtle spicy kick and fresh cilantro garnish.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice and Aromatics
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Seasonings
- 1 cup tomato sauce (or diced tomatoes, blended)
- 1 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Toast the Rice: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 cup of long-grain white rice and stir frequently for 5-7 minutes until the rice turns golden and is lightly toasted, which enhances flavor and texture.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add 1/4 cup finely chopped onion and 2 cloves minced garlic to the toasted rice. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and the mixture becomes fragrant.
- Add Liquids & Spices: Pour in 1 cup of tomato sauce (or blended diced tomatoes) and 1 1/2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth. Stir in 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, 1/4 teaspoon paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Mix everything well to combine all the flavors evenly.
- Cook the Rice: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a lid and let it simmer gently for 18-20 minutes until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Fluff & Serve: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the rice sit covered for 5 minutes to steam. Then, fluff the rice gently with a fork. Garnish with 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro if desired, and serve warm as a perfect side dish.
Notes
- Adjust salt according to taste and dietary needs.
- Using vegetable broth makes this dish vegetarian and suitable for vegans; chicken broth provides a richer flavor.
- For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños while cooking.
- Ensure the rice is evenly toasted to achieve the best texture and flavor.
- Letting the rice rest after cooking helps it stay fluffy and prevents clumping.
