Description

This Easy Mexican Rice recipe features fluffy, flavorful rice cooked with aromatic spices, tomato sauce, and a hint of cumin and chili powder. Perfect as a side dish or a base for your favorite Mexican-inspired meals, it combines simple ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques to deliver authentic taste in just 35 minutes.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup long-grain white rice
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup tomato sauce
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ cup frozen peas (optional)
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Toast the Rice: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the rice and toast, stirring frequently, for 5–7 minutes until the grains turn lightly golden, enhancing their nutty flavor.
Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent, building the base flavor.
Add Liquids and Spices: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and tomato sauce. Stir in cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Bring the mixture to a boil to combine all flavors.
Simmer the Rice: Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the rice simmer gently for 15–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Add Peas (Optional): If using frozen peas, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking to heat through without losing their texture.
Rest the Rice: Remove the skillet from the heat. Keep it covered and let the rice sit undisturbed for 5 minutes to finish steaming and to allow flavors to meld.
Finish and Serve: Fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains. Stir in the chopped fresh cilantro, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm as a delicious side dish.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Adjust chili powder quantity based on your preferred spice level.
To add more color and texture, consider mixing in diced bell peppers or corn along with the peas.
If you prefer a bit of tanginess, a squeeze of fresh lime juice served on the side complements this dish well.
This rice can be made ahead and reheated; add a splash of broth or water when reheating to maintain moisture.