Best Ever Mexican Rice Recipe

Introduction

This Best Ever Mexican Rice is a flavorful, vibrant side dish that perfectly complements any Mexican meal. With toasted rice, savory tomato, and a hint of lime, it’s both easy to make and deliciously satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• Juice of 1 lime
• Fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Gather all ingredients on the counter.
2. Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Step 3: Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Add rinsed rice to the pan, stirring to coat in oil. Toast for about 2-3 minutes.
5. Step 5: Pour in tomato sauce and vegetable broth, then stir in cumin powder. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat.
6. Step 6: Cover and simmer on low for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
7. Step 7: Remove from heat, add fresh lime juice, and fluff with a fork before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, cook the rice with 1 finely chopped jalapeño along with the onions.
• Use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth for a richer taste.
• Add a handful of frozen peas or corn for some color and texture.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro just before serving for a bright, fresh finish.

Storage

Store leftover Mexican rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep it moist.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust cooking time to about 40-45 minutes, and use 2 ½ cups of broth for best results.

How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the pan?

Make sure to toast the rice evenly without burning and use enough oil. Also, avoid stirring once the liquid is simmering, and keep the heat low while the rice cooks.

Best Ever Mexican Rice Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.4 from 116 reviews

This Best Ever Mexican Rice recipe delivers a flavorful, vibrant side dish perfect for any Mexican or Tex-Mex meal. The rice is sautéed with onion and garlic, then simmered in a tomato and cumin-infused vegetable broth. Finished with fresh lime juice and optional cilantro, this dish is a delicious and easy addition to your dinner table.

• Author: Leo
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• Juice of 1 lime
• Fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions

1. Gather Ingredients: Collect all the required ingredients and place them on your counter for easy access.
2. Sauté Onions: Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, ensuring not to brown it.
4. Toast Rice: Add the rinsed long-grain white rice to the pan. Stir well to coat the rice evenly in oil and cook for 2-3 minutes to toast it slightly.
5. Add Liquids and Spices: Pour in the tomato sauce and vegetable broth, then stir in the cumin powder. Bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Simmer Rice: Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Finish and Serve: Remove from heat, stir in fresh lime juice, fluff the rice gently with a fork, and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

• Rinse the rice under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent sticking.
• Use low-sodium vegetable broth to control the salt content and keep the dish healthier.
• For added depth of flavor, you can lightly toast the cumin powder in the pan before adding liquids.
• Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbal note but can be omitted if preferred.
• If you desire a spicier version, add a pinch of chili powder or chopped jalapeño along with the cumin.

Keywords: Mexican rice, side dish, easy Mexican recipe, cumin rice, tomato rice, vegetarian Mexican dish