Ole Fluffy Mexican Rice

Bring vibrant flavors to your table with Ole Fluffy Mexican Rice, a simple yet irresistibly flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meats. Made with golden-toasted long-grain white rice, aromatic garlic and onions, and a medley of spices like ground cumin and chili powder, this recipe delights the senses with every bite. Simmered in a rich combination of chicken broth and tomato sauce, the rice becomes tender and fluffy, while a final touch of frozen peas and carrots adds a pop of color and sweetness. Garnished with fresh cilantro and optional lime wedges for a citrusy zing, this quick 35-minute dish delivers both authenticity and convenience. Perfectly balanced and endlessly versatile, this Mexican rice will steal the spotlight at any meal!

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups long-grain white rice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 0.5 cups white onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 0.5 cups tomato sauce
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 0.25 cups diced tomatoes (optional)
• 0.5 cups frozen peas and carrots
• 0.5 teaspoons ground cumin
• 0.5 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoons salt
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 whole lime wedges (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer under cold water until the water runs clear. This step ensures the rice doesn’t become sticky.

Step 2

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the rice to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, for 5–7 minutes, until the rice turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma.

Step 4

Add the diced onion and cook for another 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.

Step 5

Stir in the tomato sauce, chicken broth, and optional diced tomatoes, ensuring the ingredients are well combined.

Step 6

Add the cumin, chili powder, and salt. Stir well to distribute the spices evenly.

Step 7

Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid.

Step 8

Simmer for 15 minutes, undisturbed, allowing the rice to absorb all the liquid.

Step 9

After 15 minutes, remove the lid and gently stir in the frozen peas and carrots. Cover again and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 10

Turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes to steam and finish cooking.

Step 11

Fluff the rice with a fork and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 12

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for a zesty twist, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1408 grams (1408.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	812

Total Fat 29.70g	38%
Saturated Fat 4.30g	22%
Polyunsaturated Fat 16.90g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 4362mg	190%
Total Carbohydrate 113.90g	41%
Dietary Fiber 8.10g	29%
Total Sugars 12.90g
Protein 23.30g	47%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 168mg	13%
Iron 8mg	44%
Potassium 1126mg	24%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 32.8%

Protein: 11.4%

Carbs: 55.8%