1.5 cups long-grain white rice – rinsed until water runs clear, drained
3 tbsp neutral oil
0.75 cups yellow onion – finely chopped
3 cloves garlic – finely minced
0.5 tsp ground cumin
1 cups tomato sauce (canned)
2 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
1 tsp kosher salt
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
fresh cilantro – chopped (for serving)
Instructions
Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer under cool water until the water runs mostly clear, 30–60 seconds. Drain well.
Heat the oil in a medium saucepan (with a tight-fitting lid) over medium heat. Add the drained rice and cook, stirring frequently, until the grains turn opaque and lightly golden, 5–7 minutes.
Stir in the onion and cook until softened and translucent, 3–4 minutes. Add the garlic and cumin and cook until fragrant, 30–60 seconds.
Stir in the tomato sauce and cook 1 minute to reduce splattering. Pour in the chicken broth, add the salt and black pepper, and stir to combine. Bring to a gentle boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender, 15–20 minutes. Do not lift the lid while simmering.
Remove from the heat and let rest, covered, for 10 minutes to finish steaming. Uncover and fluff the rice with a fork. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro if using.