Mexican-Style Fluffy Rice

Ingredients

• 2 cups (400g) long-grain white rice 2 cups (400g) long-grain white rice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 42g, 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
2. 2.
   In a large skillet or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
3. 3.
   Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and sauté until they become translucent.
4. 4.
   Stir in the rice and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice grains are coated with oil and slightly toasted.
5. 5.
   Add the cumin powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices.
6. 6.
   Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir gently to combine.
7. 7.
   Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let the rice simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
8. 8.
   Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam.
9. 9.
   Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Rice — Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch and achieve a fluffier texture.
• Cumin powder — Toast the cumin powder in a dry skillet for a few seconds before adding it to the dish to enhance its aroma.
• Tomatoes — Use ripe and juicy tomatoes for the best flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely chopped jalapeño pepper.
• To make it a complete meal, add cooked vegetables or protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp.
• Use a fork to fluff the rice gently to avoid crushing the grains.

Serving advice

Mexican-Style Fluffy Rice is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of Mexican main courses such as enchiladas, tacos, or grilled meats. Serve it hot and garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

Presentation advice

Transfer the rice to a serving dish and garnish with a sprinkle of paprika and a few slices of fresh bell pepper for a vibrant and appetizing presentation.