Easy Mexican Rice
The ultimate comfort food, Easy Mexican Rice is a flavorful and easy dish perfect for any occasion. Bursting with rich flavors, it's a satisfying side that pairs well with your favorite entrees. Make it tonight and experience a taste of Mexico!
Equipment
- Skillet
- Large Pot
- Saucepan
- Chef's Knife
- Cutting Board
- Mixing Bowl
- Wooden Spoon
Ingredients
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 1/2 onion diced
- 1 cup white rice medium or long grain uncooked
- 1 tsp garlic salt or 1/2 tsp garlic powder + 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 10 oz Mexican Diced Tomatoes diced tomatoes with green chiles
- 1/2 lime juiced
- 1 1/2 cups Chicken broth
- 2 tbsp freshly chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to sauté but not smoking. Once it's shimmering, add the onion. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. You’re looking for a tender texture with a slight sweetness.
- Next, stir in the white rice, making sure to coat each grain in the oil. Let the rice toast slightly, around 2 to 3 minutes, until it turns a light golden color. This step adds a nutty flavor that enhances the overall dish.
- As the rice toasts, sprinkle in the garlic salt and cumin. Keep stirring to combine everything. The aroma will be intoxicating as the spices bloom and envelop the rice.
- Once the rice is toasted and the spices are well incorporated, add the Mexican diced tomatoes along with their juices, the freshly squeezed lime juice, and the chicken broth. Give everything a good stir to mix.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, watching it bubble up. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a fitting lid to trap the steam inside, which is crucial for cooking the rice evenly.
- Let it simmer for about 20 minutes without lifting the lid. This allows the rice to absorb all the flavors and the liquid. You’ll know it’s ready when the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed.
- After 20 minutes, remove the skillet from the heat. Fluff the rice with a fork, breaking up any clumps. Stir in the freshly chopped cilantro for that final touch of freshness. This is where the dish truly comes alive!
- Serve the rice warm, either as a side dish or as part of a larger meal. It’s perfect with grilled meats or as a base for burrito bowls.
- Enjoy every bite of your Easy Mexican Rice! It’s comforting, full of flavor, and a dish everyone will love.
Notes
If you can't find the 14oz can of Mexican Diced Tomatoes, use a can of regular diced tomatoes and a 4oz can of diced green chilies. (use as much or as little of the chilies as you prefer).