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Easy Flavor-Packed One-Pot Mexican Rice Recipe for Perfect Dinner

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A quick and easy one-pot Mexican rice recipe that combines smoky spices, tomato sauce, and fluffy rice for a flavorful and comforting side dish perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (about 300g), rinsed until water runs clear
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ cup tomato sauce (120ml)
  • 2 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth (600ml), preferably low sodium
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Drain and set aside for about 5 minutes.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat in a large heavy-bottomed skillet or sauté pan.
  3. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent and slightly golden. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the rinsed rice to the pan and stir continuously for 3-5 minutes until the rice is lightly golden and nutty.
  5. Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the rice and onions evenly.
  6. Stir in the tomato sauce, then carefully pour in the broth and give it a gentle stir.
  7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover with a tight-fitting lid. Let it simmer gently for 18-20 minutes without lifting the lid.
  8. After 18 minutes, check the rice for doneness. If still firm, cover and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  9. Remove from heat and let the rice rest for 5 minutes with the lid on. Fluff gently with a fork.
  10. Stir in fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro before serving.

Notes

Toast the rice properly to develop a nutty flavor and prevent mushiness. Avoid lifting the lid during simmering to trap steam for fluffy rice. Use fresh spices for best flavor. If rice is wet after cooking, cook uncovered on low heat for a few minutes to evaporate excess moisture. Lime juice added at the end brightens the flavors. Brown rice can be used but requires 15 extra minutes of cooking and more broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican rice, one-pot recipe, easy dinner, quick side dish, flavorful rice, weeknight meal, family-friendly, gluten-free, vegetarian option

Find it online: https://sofiaspice.com/easy-flavor-packed-one-pot-mexican-rice-recipe-for-perfect-dinner/