Authentic Mexican Fluffy Rice (Print-Friendly Version)

Classic Mexican-style rice cooked with tomato, garlic, and chili for a fluffy, savory dish.

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
02 - 1 cup long-grain white rice
03 - 4-8 ounces canned tomato sauce
04 - 2 cups water
05 - 1 teaspoon minced garlic (about 2 cloves)
06 - 2 teaspoons Caldo de Tomate (tomato bouillon)
07 - 1 teaspoon chili powder

# Steps:

01 - Heat oil in a 3-quart saute pan over medium heat. Add rice and stir to combine. Cook, stirring frequently, for 3-5 minutes, until rice begins to turn golden.
02 - Add chili powder, Caldo de Tomate, and minced garlic. Stir to combine.
03 - Pour in water and tomato sauce. Stir to combine.
04 - Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 20 minutes, or until all water has been absorbed.
05 - Turn off the heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes. Fluff rice with a fork and serve.

# Notes:

01 - You can use 4 ounces (½ cup) tomato sauce for a drier consistency, or up to 8 ounces (1 cup) if you prefer it saucier. Leftover sauce can be frozen for future use.
02 - Rinsing the rice is optional, as it is not essential to the recipe.
03 - Cooked vegetables like peas and carrots can be added before covering and cooking the rice for added flavor and nutrition.