Mexican Rice Recipe (Easy and Flavorful) Recipe
This easy and flavorful Mexican Rice recipe combines aromatic spices, fresh vegetables, and tender long grain white rice cooked to perfection. A vibrant side dish that pairs wonderfully with Mexican meals, featuring a balance of savory tomato sauce and subtle heat from jalapeno pepper.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely diced
Rice and Seasonings
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Kosher salt, to taste
Liquids
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
Optional Garnish
- Finely chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Wash rice: Thoroughly rinse the rice under cold water using a fine mesh sieve until the water runs clear, then drain well to remove excess starch.
- Cook veggies: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions, minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, and jalapeno pepper. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn translucent and the mixture becomes fragrant.
- Toast rice: Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and continue to sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice grains are lightly toasted and take on a golden brown color.
- Simmer: Stir in the cumin, kosher salt, tomato sauce, and broth. Mix everything well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the saucepan with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
- Fluff and garnish: Remove the saucepan from heat. Use a fork to fluff the rice gently to separate the grains. Garnish with finely chopped cilantro if desired, then serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a spicier version, leave some seeds in the jalapeno or add a pinch of chili powder.
- Use chicken broth for a richer taste or vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian.
- Be sure to cover the pan tightly while simmering to prevent steam from escaping and ensure the rice cooks evenly.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated with a splash of water to restore moisture.
- Cilantro garnish is optional but adds a fresh, herbal note.
