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How to Make Authentic Mexican Rice At Home

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Ingredients
 

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce or 2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • 1/4 cup frozen peas and carrots optional
  • Fresh cilantro chopped (for garnish)
  • Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

Prepare the Rice:

  • Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.

Cook the Rice:

  • Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
  • Add the rinsed rice and stir. Cook, stirring frequently, until the rice is lightly golden and toasted, about 5 minutes.

Sauté the Aromatics:

  • Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until it starts to soften, about 3 minutes.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Liquids and Seasonings:

  • Stir in the tomato sauce, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer the Rice:

  • Reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Add Vegetables:

  • If using peas and carrots, stir them in about 5 minutes before the rice is done to heat through and blend with the other ingredients.

Fluff and Serve:

  • Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then fluff it with a fork.
  • Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.