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Easy Mexican Rice Recipe

No need for hard cooking tricks. Our guide helps you make perfect Mexican rice. It's fluffy, full of flavor, and sure to wow anyone. It works for beginners and experienced cooks alike, always delivering great results.
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Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 200 g long-grain white rice
  • 30 g olive oil or vegetable oil
  • 1 small onion finely chopped (50 g)
  • 2 cloves garlic minced (10 g)
  • 400 g canned diced tomatoes or fresh, if preferred
  • 250 ml chicken or vegetable broth
  • 5 g ground cumin
  • 5 g chili powder
  • 2 g salt or to taste
  • 1 g black pepper
  • 15 ml lime juice freshly squeezed, about half a lime
  • 15 g fresh cilantro chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

  • Large skillet or saucepan with a lid
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Blender or food processor (if using fresh tomatoes)

Method
 

  1. Toast the Rice – In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the rice and cook, stirring frequently, until lightly golden and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics – Add the diced onion and cook until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  3. Add the Tomato Sauce & Spices – Pour in the tomato sauce, cumin, chili powder, and salt, stirring to coat the rice in the seasoning.
  4. Simmer with Broth – Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the rice cook for about 15–18 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
  5. Fluff & Serve – Once cooked, turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and stir in chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice before serving.
  6. Why Restaurants Can't Resist Mexican Rice