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Fluffy Authentic Mexican Rice Recipe Easy Homemade Side Dish Perfect for Dinner

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A simple, flavorful, and fluffy Mexican rice recipe that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, beans, or salads. This easy homemade side dish is quick to prepare and brings authentic taste to your dinner table.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice (about 285 g), rinsed until water runs clear
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (can substitute canola or avocado oil)
  • 1 small white onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce (240 ml) or blended fresh tomatoes
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth (600 ml), homemade or low-sodium store-bought
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (preferably Mexican oregano)
  • A handful of fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well (about 3 minutes).
  2. Heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the drained rice and stir constantly with a wooden spoon or spatula until the grains turn light golden brown and smell nutty, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add the finely chopped white onion and minced garlic to the toasted rice. Stir and cook until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Pour in 1 cup of tomato sauce and stir to coat the rice evenly. Add salt, ground cumin, and dried oregano. Stir well to combine.
  5. Carefully pour in 2 1/2 cups of broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low. Cover tightly with a lid and simmer undisturbed for 18-20 minutes. Do not lift the lid during cooking.
  6. Turn off the heat and keep the lid on. Let the rice rest for 10 minutes to finish cooking and become fluffy.
  7. Remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Stir in chopped fresh cilantro if desired. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Notes

Rinsing the rice removes excess starch and prevents clumping. Toasting the rice until golden brown is key for nutty flavor and fluffy texture. Avoid lifting the lid during simmering and resting to keep rice fluffy. Use fresh or quality broth for best flavor. For gluten-free, ensure broth and tomato products are gluten-free. Variations include adding vegetables or spices for extra flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican rice, fluffy rice, easy side dish, homemade Mexican rice, authentic Mexican rice, dinner side, quick rice recipe

Find it online: https://emmayum.com/fluffy-authentic-mexican-rice-recipe-easy-homemade-side-dish-perfect-for-dinner/