Easy Mexican Rice

User Reviews

3.9

87 reviews
Good
  • Prep Time

    5 mins

  • Cook Time

    20 mins

  • Additional Time

    10 mins

  • Total Time

    35 mins

  • Servings

    8

  • Calories

    199 kcal

  • Course

    Side Dish

  • Cuisine

    Mexican

Easy Mexican Rice

Easy Mexican Rice uses long grain white rice toasted in olive oil with spices including onion and garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and tomato bouillon, then cooked in chicken broth with tomato paste. The rice is tender with a flavorful tomato and spice base. It is garnished with fresh cilantro and can be a versatile side for Mexican dishes or other meals where seasoned rice is desired.

Description

Easy Mexican Rice starts by lightly toasting long grain white rice in olive oil to bring out a nutty aroma. A blend of seasonings including onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and tomato bouillon enhances the flavor with warm spices and rich tomato notes. Tomato paste contributes to the depth and color as the rice simmers covered in chicken broth until fully cooked and fluffy. After cooking, it is fluffed with a fork and salted to taste.

The rice has a tender texture and a balanced spice profile, making it a suitable accompaniment for dishes such as tacos, grilled meats, or beans. Fresh cilantro garnish adds a hint of herbal brightness and color contrast.

Tomato bouillon adds a concentrated tomato flavor and includes MSG, so adjustments may be necessary based on personal preferences and salt levels in the broth. Using regular long grain rice is important as Minute rice does not work well with this method.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 2 cups long grain white rice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon tomato bouillon
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • salt to taste
  • cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Add the olive oil to a deep skillet over medium heat and heat until shimmering. Add the rice and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until rice starts to look slightly toasted on the edges.
  2. Add the onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, cumin, tomato bouillon, and tomato paste. Stir to combine and cook for 1 minute more.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover the pan, and cook for 15 minutes over medium-low heat.
  4. After 15 minutes, turn off the heat and leave the pan covered on the stove for 10 minutes.
  5. Remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Taste and season with salt, if needed.

Notes

  • Use regular long grain white rice rather than parcooked varieties like Minute rice for best texture.
  • Tomato bouillon is a concentrated flavor enhancer and may contain MSG; use according to your preference.
  • Adjust salt carefully as the bouillon and broth can add significant saltiness.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro for added color and herbal flavor.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Calories 199kcal (10%) Carbohydrates 39g (13%) Protein 4g (8%) Fat 2g (3%) Saturated Fat 0.4g (2%) Polyunsaturated Fat 0.3g (2%) Monounsaturated Fat 1g (5%) Cholesterol 2mg (1%) Sodium 471mg (20%) Potassium 134mg (3%) Fiber 1g (4%) Sugar 1g (2%) Vitamin A 190IU (4%) Vitamin C 1mg (1%) Calcium 24mg (2%) Iron 1mg (6%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 8Serving

Amount Per Serving

Calories 199 kcal

% Daily Value*

Calories 199kcal 10%
Carbohydrates 39g 13%
Protein 4g 8%
Fat 2g 3%
Saturated Fat 0.4g 2%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.3g 2%
Monounsaturated Fat 1g 5%
Cholesterol 2mg 1%
Sodium 471mg 20%
Potassium 134mg 3%
Fiber 1g 4%
Sugar 1g 2%
Vitamin A 190IU 4%
Vitamin C 1mg 1%
Calcium 24mg 2%
Iron 1mg 6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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Overall Rating

3.9

87 reviews
Good

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