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Homemade Restaurant Style Mexican Rice photo

Restaurant Style Mexican Rice

This Restaurant Style Mexican Rice is a flavorful, easy-to-make side dish that brings the magic of the restaurant to your home!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons butter (or ghee)
  • 1 cup long-grain brown rice
  • 1/2 cup sweet onion (diced)
  • 1 clove garlic (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
  • 1/2 cup diced fire-roasted tomatoes (canned, with liquid)
  • 2 tablespoons diced green chiles (canned, with liquid)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 2 cups chicken broth (fat-free)

Equipment

  • Large skillet or pot
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

  1. Gather all your ingredients, dice the onion, mince the garlic, and measure out the spices and canned goods.
  2. In a large skillet or pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter (or ghee) over medium heat. Add the diced sweet onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the 1 cup of long-grain brown rice to the skillet. Stir it into the onion and garlic mixture, allowing the rice to toast slightly for about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir everything together to coat the rice with the spices.
  5. Pour in the diced fire-roasted tomatoes, diced green chiles, and tomato paste. Stir to combine, then add the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
  6. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet or pot. Allow the rice to simmer for about 40-45 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
  7. Remove from heat and let the rice sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Notes

  • For a vegan option, substitute the butter with olive oil or coconut oil.
  • If avoiding nightshades, omit the chili powder and fire-roasted tomatoes.
  • Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.