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Easy Restaurant-Style Fluffy Mexican Rice (Arroz Mexicano)

A close-up of a white plate piled high with vibrant orange Mexican rice recipe, mixed with green peas and diced carrots.
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Learn how to make authentic Mexican rice at home. This easy recipe delivers fluffy, flavorful rice similar to what you find at your favorite restaurants, perfect for any weeknight dinner or gathering.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 1/2 medium white onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 cup frozen peas and carrots mix (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add the rice to the pan and cook, stirring frequently, until the grains turn light golden brown, about 5 to 7 minutes. This toasting step is key for fluffy Mexican rice.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the pan and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and tomato sauce. Stir in the salt, cumin, and chili powder. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  6. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan tightly with a lid, and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
  7. Remove the pan from the heat and let it stand, covered, for an additional 10 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this resting time.
  8. Gently fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the frozen peas and carrots mix if using. Serve immediately as a perfect Taco Tuesday side dish.

Notes

  • For an authentic flavor, use low-sodium chicken broth.
  • If you prefer a richer color, add 1/4 cup of tomato paste along with the tomato sauce.
  • This recipe is naturally gluten free.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.unfoldrecipes.com/easy-restaurant-style-mexican-rice-recipe/