Description
Easy Mexican Style Rice is a flavorful and colorful one-pot side dish that complements countless meals. Made with long grain white rice, tomato sauce, sautéed vegetables, and warming spices, this dish delivers rich flavor with minimal effort. It’s perfect for pairing with tacos, grilled meats, or even as a base for burrito bowls. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or prepping for a gathering, this rice is reliable, tasty, and always satisfying.
Ingredients
1 cup long grain white rice
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 cup white onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
1 cup tomato sauce
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon salt (to taste)
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
Instructions
1. Rinse the rice under cold water using a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. In a heavy-bottomed skillet or saucepan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and stir continuously for 4–5 minutes until lightly golden.
3. Stir in chopped onion, garlic, green and red bell peppers. Cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.
4. Add ground cumin, chili powder, and salt. Mix well to coat the rice and vegetables with the spices.
5. Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth. Stir to combine thoroughly.
6. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 18–20 minutes without lifting the lid.
7. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5–10 minutes to steam and settle.
8. Uncover and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Garnish with chopped cilantro and diced tomatoes, if using.
9. Serve warm as a side dish or base for other meals.
Notes
Vegetarian option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Rinsing the rice is key for fluffy texture.
Let the rice rest after cooking to absorb final steam and settle.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 215
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: rice, Mexican side dish, tomato rice, easy rice recipe