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Restaurant Style Mexican Rice

Close-up of a white bowl filled with perfectly cooked, fluffy Mexican rice.

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Learn how to make fluffy, flavorful Mexican rice just like you get at your favorite taqueria. This easy one-pot recipe is perfect for taco night and can be made ahead.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the rice and stir constantly for 3-5 minutes, until the rice is lightly golden brown.
  2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the saucepan. Cook for 1-2 minutes more, until the onion is softened and fragrant.
  3. Stir in the tomato sauce, chicken broth, salt, cumin, and oregano. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan tightly, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
  5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
  6. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Notes

  • For make-ahead convenience, prepare the rice up to 2 days in advance. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth, or in the microwave.
  • You can substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth for a vegetarian option.
  • For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño with the onions.

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