Description
This Easy Mexican Style Rice is a flavorful and aromatic side dish perfect for complementing any Mexican-inspired meal. Cooked with tomato sauce, garlic, onions, and seasoned with cilantro, it offers a deliciously simple way to elevate your dinner table in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice and Vegetables
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids
- 1 cup tomato sauce or diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
Seasoning and Oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons cilantro or parsley, optional, chopped
Instructions
- Heat the oil and toast the rice: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the long-grain white rice and stir frequently until the rice becomes golden and releases a fragrant aroma, about 3-5 minutes.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the rice. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and soft, approximately 3 minutes.
- Add tomato sauce and broth: Stir in the tomato sauce or diced tomatoes until mixed well. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the rice: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let the rice cook gently. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes or until the rice has absorbed the liquid completely and is tender.
- Fluff and garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and use a fork to fluff the rice gently. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley if desired, and serve warm as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- For a vegetarian or vegan option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Ensure the rice to broth ratio is accurate to avoid mushy or undercooked rice.
- If using diced tomatoes, drain excess liquid for a less watery texture or use tomato sauce for a smoother consistency.
- The cilantro or parsley garnish is optional but adds fresh flavor and color.
- Toasting the rice before adding liquid enhances the nutty flavor and improves texture.
