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Easy Flavor-Packed Mexican Rice Recipe Perfect for Homemade Dinners

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A quick and easy Mexican rice recipe that delivers nostalgic comfort with a toasty rice base, smoky spices, and fresh lime and cilantro for brightness. Perfect for family meals and weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (about 200g), rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce (120ml)
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth (480ml)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • A small handful fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice from half a lime

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain well.
  2. Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and toast, stirring frequently, until light golden brown and nutty, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the rice. Cook for 2-3 minutes until onions are translucent and fragrant.
  4. Stir in tomato sauce, ground cumin, chili powder, and salt. Cook for about 1 minute to deepen flavors.
  5. Pour in broth and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes without lifting the lid.
  6. Check if liquid is absorbed and rice is tender after 15 minutes; cook an additional 3-5 minutes if needed. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes.
  7. Fluff rice with a fork and stir in fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro before serving.

Notes

Toast the rice to develop flavor and prevent blandness. Use a tight-fitting lid to trap steam. Avoid stirring while simmering to prevent mushy rice. Add broth or water if rice seems dry during cooking. For a saucier rice, add extra tomato sauce. Variations include adding jalapeño for heat, swapping brown rice (increase cooking time), or adding vegetables like corn or peas.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican rice, easy rice recipe, homemade Mexican rice, quick side dish, flavorful rice, cilantro lime rice

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