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Best Ever Mexican Rice 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.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 23 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