Description
This Authentic Mexican Rice recipe offers a flavorful and vibrant side dish made with fluffy long-grain white rice, sautéed onions and garlic, a spiced tomato base, and melted Mexican Blend cheese. Infused with cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder, and optionally enhanced with chipotle pepper and fresh cilantro, this dish delivers the perfect balance of savory, smoky, and tangy elements. It’s easy to prepare on the stovetop and makes a perfect accompaniment to any Mexican-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice
- 1½ cups long-grain white rice
Aromatics and Fats
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ yellow onion, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
Tomato Base
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chiles (with juice)
Additional Ingredients
- ½ cup Mexican Blend cheese
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced (optional)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (plus more for garnish)
- Juice of ½ lime
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: Cook the rice according to package directions to ensure it is fluffy and perfectly cooked. Once done, set it aside for later use.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil, butter, and diced onions. Stir frequently and cook until onions are softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Prepare the Flavorful Tomato Base: Add the canned diced tomatoes with their juices to the skillet along with ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Stir to combine and cook for 1 minute to meld the flavors. Then remove the skillet from the heat to avoid overcooking the tomatoes.
- Combine and Incorporate Final Ingredients: Transfer the cooked rice into the skillet containing the tomato mixture. Add the Mexican Blend cheese, minced chipotle pepper if using, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Stir well until the cheese melts and all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Garnish and Serve: Plate the Mexican rice and garnish with additional chopped fresh cilantro for color and freshness. Serve warm as a delicious side dish to your meal.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add more chipotle pepper or include the adobo sauce from the can.
- Use low-sodium canned tomatoes if you want to control salt content.
- To make the dish vegan, omit the butter and cheese; substitute with vegan butter and dairy-free cheese.
- Leftover rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Feel free to garnish with lime wedges for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
