Description
This easy Mexican Rice recipe offers a flavorful and fluffy side dish perfect for complementing any Mexican meal. Made with white rice sautéed in oil, tomato paste, and a blend of spices including chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder, it’s enhanced with chicken bouillon for a savory depth. Cooked slowly on the stovetop until tender, it features a wonderfully crispy bottom layer and is garnished with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice and Cooking Base
- 4 tbsp vegetable or canola oil
- 2 cups white rice (uncooked)
Seasonings and Liquids
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 4 cups warm water
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 4 tsp chicken bouillon (Caldo de pollo)
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Add your oil over medium-high heat in a Dutch oven or skillet with a heavy lid.
- Sauté the rice: Once the oil is hot, add the rice and stir frequently. Sauté the rice for 3-4 minutes until it turns golden, ensuring even cooking and toasting.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Slowly pour in half of the warm water, then add tomato paste, chili powder, chicken bouillon, garlic powder, ground cumin, and salt. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Add remaining water and bring to boil: Pour in the remaining warm water and increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer covered: Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet or Dutch oven tightly to trap steam for cooking the rice evenly.
- Cook the rice: Allow the rice to cook undisturbed for 20 minutes until tender and the water is fully absorbed.
- Release steam carefully: Remove the heat and carefully lift the lid slightly to allow steam to escape away from your arm and body, preventing burns.
- Fluff and serve: Fluff the rice gently with a fork and scrape the bottom if you desire the crispy layer of rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
- Use a heavy skillet or Dutch oven for even heat distribution.
- Warm your water before adding to ensure consistent cooking temperature.
- Do not lift the lid during cooking to prevent steam loss.
- Adjust seasoning to taste; add more chili powder for extra spice.
- The crispy bottom layer is a regional favorite and adds texture to the dish.
