Authentic Mexican Rice

Directions

1. 1
   Rinse rice under cold water until water begins to run clear of starch.
2. 2
   In saucepan or large skillet with lid (preferably non-stick) heat oil over medium heat. Add drained rice and fry until lightly browned, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
3. 3
   In the meantime, add next 5 ingredients (not mixed veggies) to a blender and blend until smooth.
4. 4
   When rice is done frying, drain excess oil.
5. 5
   Add tomato puree to rice and continue frying about 5 more minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Add water and stir to separate lumps of rice.
6. 6
   Taste broth to check for salt. It should almost taste too salty because the rice will soak up a lot of salt and still come out bland. Drain can of vegetables (or canned peas and carrots) and add to broth.
7. 7
   Stir.
8. 8
   Bring to a boil. Cover and lower flame to low and cook for 20 minutes or until all broth is absorbed--do not lift lid for 20 minutes. (This was my major mistake when I was learning to make this dish. I would check it halfway through and all the steam would escape. I used to even--GASP!--stir it halfway through! Don't do this unless you want a big gloppy mess for dinner).
9. 9
   Enjoy!