Description
A flavorful and easy-to-make Mexican rice recipe featuring toasted long-grain white rice cooked in a savory blend of tomato sauce, spices, and broth, enhanced with fresh cilantro and optional peas for added texture and nutrition. Perfect as a side dish to complement Mexican-inspired meals.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- Toast the Rice: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the rice and stir continuously for 5 to 7 minutes until the rice turns a light golden color, which enhances its flavor.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add Liquids and Spices: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and tomato sauce. Stir in the cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer the Rice: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid. Let the rice simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Add Peas: If using frozen peas, add them during the last 5 minutes of cooking to allow them to warm through without overcooking.
- Rest the Rice: Remove the skillet from heat and keep it covered. Let the rice sit for 5 minutes to finish steaming and settle.
- 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 according to taste, and serve warm.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- You can add diced bell peppers or corn for extra color and flavor.
- Adjust the chili powder quantity based on your preferred spice level.
- Fresh tomatoes can be used in place of tomato sauce by blending and cooking them down.
- Toasting the rice before cooking enhances flavor and prevents mushiness.
