Description
This Authentic Mexican Rice Recipe features perfectly cooked long-grain white rice combined with a savory tomato and spice base, enriched with Mexican blend cheese, chipotle pepper, fresh cilantro, and a zesty lime finish. The dish is a flavorful and vibrant side that’s easy to prepare and ideal for complementing any Mexican meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice and Aromatics
- 1½ cups long-grain white rice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ yellow onion, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Tomato and Spice Mixture
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chiles (with juice)
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
Finishing 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 long-grain white rice according to the package directions until fluffy and tender. This creates the perfect base for the dish. Once done, set the rice aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil and unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and sauté, stirring frequently, until onions are softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Prepare the Flavorful Tomato Base: Stir in the canned diced tomatoes with green chiles (including the juice), ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder into the skillet. Cook for 1 minute to blend the flavors, then remove the skillet from the heat to avoid overcooking.
- Combine and Incorporate Final Ingredients: Add the cooked rice to the skillet with the tomato and spice mixture. Stir in the Mexican Blend cheese, minced chipotle pepper if using, chopped fresh cilantro, and lime juice. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients and allow the cheese to melt into the rice.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the Mexican rice to a serving dish and garnish with additional chopped fresh cilantro. Serve warm and enjoy the vibrant and flavorful side dish.
Notes
- The chipotle pepper in adobo sauce adds smokiness and heat; omit if you prefer a milder dish.
- Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best citrus flavor.
- Mexican Blend cheese can be substituted with shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack.
- For a vegan version, replace butter with extra olive oil and omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
- Ensure to rinse rice before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
