Mexican Rice Recipe: The Perfect Side Dish for Any Mexican Meal
Fluffy, flavorful, and packed with savory tomato and garlic goodness, this Mexican Rice Recipe is a must-have addition to any Mexican-inspired meal. Whether you're serving enchiladas, tacos, or grilled steak, this classic side dish brings everything together with authentic taste and satisfying texture.
In this post, you'll learn how to make easy, restaurant-style Mexican rice from scratch using simple pantry staples. Let’s dive into the details.
Why You’ll Love This Mexican Rice Recipe
- Easy to make with ingredients you already have
- Full of rich, tomato-infused flavor
- A one-pot, no-fuss side dish
- Naturally vegetarian and easily adaptable
- Perfect for weekly meal prep
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce (or blended fresh tomatoes)
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- Optional: fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish
How to Make Mexican Rice (Step-by-Step)
- Rinse the Rice: Rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents clumping.
- Toast the Rice: In a medium saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Add the rice and stir frequently for 5 to 7 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in Tomato and Seasonings: Add tomato sauce, cumin, and salt. Stir to coat the rice evenly.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the broth, stir, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 18 to 20 minutes. Do not lift the lid while cooking.
- Let It Rest: Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow steam to finish the cooking process.
- Fluff and Serve: Gently fluff with a fork. Top with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This rice pairs perfectly with:
- Chicken or beef tacos
- Grilled steak or carne asada
- Burritos or burrito bowls
- Enchiladas or chimichangas
- Black beans, grilled vegetables, or refried beans
You can also use it as a base for rice bowls or taco salads.
Tips for the Best Mexican Rice
- Use long-grain white rice for the best fluffy texture.
- Toasting the rice is key to avoiding mushiness and developing flavor.
- Broth over water gives deeper flavor. Chicken or vegetable broth both work well.
- Don’t lift the lid during simmering—this traps the steam and ensures even cooking.
- Customize it by adding diced carrots, corn, or peas for extra color and nutrients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly.
Is Mexican rice the same as Spanish rice?
They’re similar, but not exactly the same. Mexican rice is typically made with tomato sauce and garlic, while Spanish rice may use saffron and has a slightly different spice profile.
Can I make this in a rice cooker?
Yes. Toast the rice in a pan first with the garlic and onion, then transfer to a rice cooker along with the tomato sauce and broth. Cook as you would regular white rice.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store cooled rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water.
Can I freeze Mexican rice?
Absolutely. Let it cool completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.
Final Thoughts
This Mexican Rice Recipe is a simple, delicious way to bring authentic flavor to your home kitchen. It’s the perfect side for tacos, enchiladas, grilled meats, or even as a meal base. With just a few ingredients and less than 30 minutes, you can serve a dish that rivals any restaurant version.
Say goodbye to bland, boxed rice and hello to homemade goodness. Give it a try and make your next Mexican dinner unforgettable.