Ingredients
Rice and Seasonings
- 1 cup (175 g) long-grain rice, washed
- 1 tbsp (15 g) vegetable oil or butter
- 1 tbsp (15 g) tomato paste (or tomato passata if unseasoned, or ketchup)
- 1 tsp ancho chili powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (skip if using sautéed fresh garlic)
- 1/4 tsp onion powder (skip if using sautéed fresh onion)
- 1/4 tsp cumin
- 2 cups (250 ml) water
- Salt, to taste
Finishing
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) lime juice (about 1/2 lime)
Instructions
- Toast the rice: Heat a saucepan or skillet over medium heat. Add the vegetable oil or butter and allow it to get hot. If using fresh onion and garlic, sauté them until soft at this stage. Then add the washed long-grain rice to the hot oil and toast it for about one minute while stirring continuously to prevent burning.
- Season the rice: Stir in the tomato paste carefully as it will sizzle. Cook for 30 seconds to let the tomato paste blend with the rice. Then add the water, garlic powder, onion powder (if not using fresh), ancho chili powder, paprika, cumin, and salt to taste. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.
- Cook the rice: Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil uncovered. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and let the rice cook gently until all the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. This usually takes about 15 minutes.
- Finish with lime juice: Remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Drizzle the lime juice over the rice and gently mix to distribute the fresh citrus flavor evenly before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, consider sautéing fresh diced onions and minced garlic instead of using powdered versions.
- Adjust chili powder amounts to your heat preference; ancho chili powder adds mild smokiness without intense heat.
- If using tomato passata or ketchup, ensure it is unseasoned to control the overall salt and flavor balance.
- Serve this seasoned rice as a base for burrito bowls, tacos, or alongside grilled meats and vegetables.
- To make this dish vegan, use vegetable oil and check that tomato paste or passata has no added animal products.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
