Description
This Homemade Mexican Rice recipe offers a flavorful and easy-to-make side dish with perfectly toasted rice, aromatic spices, and a rich tomato base. Ready in just 30 minutes and serving 4, it’s a delicious complement to your favorite Mexican-inspired meals.
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 Spices
- 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)
Garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Toast the Rice: Heat the vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the rice and stir frequently to toast it until golden brown and lightly toasted, about 5-7 minutes. This step develops a nutty flavor and ensures the grains stay separate.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the toasted rice and cook for 2 minutes until the mixture becomes fragrant and the onions soften slightly.
- Add Liquids & Spices: Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken or vegetable broth. Then, add the ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, and salt. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cook the Rice: Increase heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid. Let the rice simmer gently for 18 to 20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Fluff & Serve: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Then fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro if desired, and serve warm as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- For a vegetarian or vegan option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Adjust the chili powder amount to control the spiciness to your preference.
- If using diced tomatoes instead of tomato sauce, blend them to ensure a smooth consistency.
- Letting the rice rest after cooking helps it finish steaming and results in fluffier rice.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
