Easy Mexican Rice
Easy Mexican Rice is a flavorful and vibrant dish that brings the taste of Mexico right to your plate. It combines simple ingredients to create a delicious side that pairs well with many meals.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 3 cups chicken stock
- 3 Roma tomatoes, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups long white rice
- 1 ½ cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, corn, and carrot) (optional) Optional
- ¼ cup finely chopped cilantro
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
Instructions
Stovetop Preparation
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft.
- Stir in the garlic and jalapeno, cooking until fragrant.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they begin to break down.
- Mix in the tomato paste, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a boil.
- Add the rice and frozen mixed vegetables (if using). Stir well.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in the cilantro and lime juice.
Rice Cooker Preparation
- Follow the same steps to prepare the mixture up to the chicken stock.
- Transfer everything to the rice cooker.
- Add rice and frozen vegetables (if using).
- Cook according to your rice cooker’s instructions.
Notes
Rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch, which helps prevent it from becoming sticky. Adjust the spice level by leaving some seeds in the jalapeno or using a milder pepper if you prefer less heat. For extra flavor, try adding spices like cumin or chili powder.