Description
This Homemade Mexican Rice recipe delivers a flavorful and aromatic side dish that complements any Mexican-inspired meal. Toasted rice combined with sautéed onions, garlic, and a blend of spices simmered in tomato sauce and broth creates a perfectly tender and vibrant rice dish. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an ideal accompaniment for tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meats.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 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 the vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the long-grain white rice and stir frequently for 5 to 7 minutes until the rice turns golden and is lightly toasted, enhancing its nutty flavor.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the toasted rice. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring regularly, until the onions are soft and the garlic is fragrant, building a flavorful base for the rice.
- Add Liquids & Spices: Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken or vegetable broth. Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, and salt. Mix everything well to evenly distribute the spices and flavors.
- Cook the Rice: 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 to 20 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb all the liquid and become tender.
- Fluff & Serve: After cooking, remove the rice from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm as a tasty side dish.
Notes
- Use low-sodium broth if you prefer to control the salt content better.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeño during cooking.
- If using diced tomatoes instead of tomato sauce, blend them to a smooth consistency before adding.
- Keep the lid on during simmering to ensure the rice cooks evenly and absorbs the liquid properly.
- This rice pairs well with beans, grilled meats, or as a base for burrito bowls.
