Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick and simple to make
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Flavor-packed with aromatic spices
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Versatile and customizable
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Great for meal prep
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Kid- and crowd-friendly
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Nutritious and wholesome
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Delicious as leftovers
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 cup long-grain white rice
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2 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 bell pepper, diced
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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1 teaspoon chili powder
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Salt, to taste
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½ cup diced tomatoes
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Fresh cilantro, for garnish
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Lime wedges, for serving
Directions
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Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
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Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until translucent.
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Add bell peppers and cook until softened.
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Stir in spices to bloom their flavors.
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Add rice and liquids, including diced tomatoes, and bring to a boil.
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Simmer covered on low heat until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
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Fluff and garnish with cilantro and lime juice.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 20 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
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Add corn, peas, or black beans for texture and protein.
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Mix in shredded cheese for a cheesy version.
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Swap white rice for brown rice (adjust cooking time and liquid).
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Spice it up with jalapeños or hot sauce.
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Stir in lime zest and juice for a cilantro lime version.
Storage/Reheating
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Refrigerate in an airtight container for 4–5 days.
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Freeze up to 3 months. Reheat with a splash of broth or water on the stovetop or microwave.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but increase the cooking time and add more broth.
Can I leave out the tomatoes?
Absolutely, just adjust with a bit more broth.
Is it good for meal prep?
Yes! It holds up well and pairs with many dishes.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger pot and adjust cook time slightly.
How do I make it fluffier?
Rinse the rice well before cooking to remove starch.
Conclusion
Easy Mexican Rice is more than just a side dish—it’s a flavorful addition that elevates any meal. With its simple prep, versatile nature, and bold taste, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Try it once, and it may just become your go-to rice recipe!
Print
Easy Mexican Rice
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Mexican Rice is the ultimate side dish—fluffy, flavorful, and ready in 30 minutes! Made with aromatic spices, bell pepper, garlic, and tomatoes, it’s the perfect Mexican rice recipe to pair with tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meats.
Ingredients
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt, to taste
½ cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
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Rinse the Rice:
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps achieve fluffy rice. -
Sauté Aromatics:
In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and translucent (about 3–4 minutes). -
Add Bell Peppers:
Stir in diced bell peppers and cook for another 2–3 minutes until just tender. -
Bloom the Spices:
Add cumin, chili powder, and salt. Stir for 30 seconds to bloom the spices and enhance their flavor. -
Add Rice & Liquid:
Stir in the rinsed rice, diced tomatoes, and broth. Bring the mixture to a boil. -
Simmer:
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. -
Fluff & Finish:
Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
Notes
Variations:
Cheesy Mexican Rice: Stir in shredded cheddar or a Mexican blend before serving.
Add Protein: Stir in black beans, corn, or shredded chicken.
Brown Rice Version: Use brown rice and increase the liquid to 2½ cups. Simmer for 35–40 minutes.
Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce.
Cilantro Lime Style: Add lime zest and more fresh cilantro for a vibrant flavor twist.
Storage & Reheating:
Refrigerate: In an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freeze: Store in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Add a splash of broth or water and warm on stovetop or microwave until hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minute
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
