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
-
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
