Ingredients
Scale
- For the Rice:
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 3 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- Optional: ½ cup frozen peas or carrots (for color and nutrition)
- Fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Toasting the Rice: Heat the oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the uncooked rice and toast, stirring frequently, until the grains turn golden brown and fragrant (about 5–7 minutes). Be careful not to burn them. Remove the toasted rice and set aside.
- Sautéing the Aromatics: In the same pan, add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Return the toasted rice to the pan and mix well to coat with the aromatics.
- Adding Liquids and Simmering: Pour in the diced tomatoes, broth, cumin, and salt. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to ensure even results.
- Finishing Touches: Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in optional peas or carrots if using. Let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes to steam further. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
- For a vegan option, use vegetable broth and omit animal-based ingredients.
- Gluten-free by default, but ensure all broth and canned ingredients are certified gluten-free if needed.
- Storage tip: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (1/6th of the recipe)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 3 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg