Easy Mexican Rice
User Reviews
3.9
Easy Mexican Rice
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.
Ingredients
- 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
- 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.
- Add the onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, cumin, tomato bouillon, and tomato paste. Stir to combine and cook for 1 minute more.
- 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.
- After 15 minutes, turn off the heat and leave the pan covered on the stove for 10 minutes.
- 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 DetailsNutrition 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.