Jun 09 2026

Mexican Rice Recipe

Time45m
Serves4

Make Mexican Rice Recipe in just 45m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Rice Preparation

Finishing Touches

Method

Cooking Rice

  1. 1

    Rinse the Rice

    In a fine mesh strainer, rinse the long-grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch.

  2. 2

    Cook the Rice

    In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.

  3. 3

    Fluff the Rice

    Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before adding it to the flavor base.

Preparing Flavor Base

  1. 4

    Sauté Onions and Garlic

    In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

  2. 5

    Add Tomato Paste and Spices

    Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld.

Combining Ingredients

  1. 6

    Incorporate Vegetables

    Add the diced bell pepper, frozen peas, and corn kernels to the skillet. Stir well and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are heated through.

  2. 7

    Combine with Rice

    Add the cooked rice to the skillet, mixing thoroughly with the vegetable and spice mixture. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.

Finishing Touches

  1. 8

    Add Cilantro and Lime

    Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

  2. 9

    Serve

    Serve the Mexican rice warm, garnished with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.

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