Description
This homemade restaurant-style Mexican rice recipe delivers a flavorful and vibrant side dish that pairs perfectly with your favorite Mexican meals. The rice is sautéed to a golden brown with onion and garlic, then simmered in a savory tomato and broth mixture, resulting in fluffy, tender grains infused with aromatic spices and a hint of sweetness from peas and carrots.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed and drained
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Liquid and Seasoning
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
Optional Add-ins
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat, preparing the pan for toasting the rice.
- Toast the rice: Add the rinsed and drained cup of long-grain white rice to the saucepan and cook, stirring frequently, until the rice turns a light golden brown, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step enhances the rice’s nutty flavor.
- Sauté aromatics: Stir in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent, releasing rich aromas that infuse the rice.
- Add liquids and seasoning: Pour in 1 3/4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth along with 1/4 cup tomato sauce. Add 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer rice: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a lid and simmer the rice gently for 15 to 20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.
- Add vegetables: If using, stir in 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots during the last 5 minutes of cooking to warm them through without overcooking.
- Rest the rice: Turn off the heat and allow the rice to sit, covered, for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps absorb any remaining moisture and enhances the flavors.
- Fluff and serve: Fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving. Optionally garnish with fresh cilantro to add a bright, fresh note to your dish.
Notes
- Rinsing the rice removes excess starch and prevents it from becoming sticky.
- To make this dish vegan, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- You can add finely chopped fresh cilantro on top for extra flavor and color.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili powder or diced jalapeño while sautéing the onion and garlic.
- Allowing the rice to rest off the heat helps achieve fluffy texture without burning or sticking at the bottom.
