Here we go.
The aroma of simmering spices wafts through the air as you prepare to dive into a plate of perfectly fluffy Mexican rice. With its vibrant colors, zesty flavors, and delightful textures, this dish isn’t just a side—it’s a fiesta on your plate! Whether it’s taco night or just another Tuesday that needs some pizzazz, Mexican rice brings warmth and joy to any meal. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Growing up, our family gatherings always revolved around delicious food. I can still picture my abuela standing over the stove, her laughter mixing with the sizzling sounds of onions and garlic as she stirred her legendary Mexican rice. It wasn’t just about the food; it was about connection, and every bite transported me back to those cherished moments filled with love and laughter. delicious vegan taquitos Get ready to recreate those memories with this amazing dish that promises to be a showstopper at your next gathering!
Why You'll Love This mexican rice
- This amazing mexican rice offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Ingredients for mexican rice
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious mexican rice:
- Long Grain White Rice: This type of rice cooks up fluffy and separates beautifully, making it perfect for absorbing flavors.
- Vegetable Oil: A splash of vegetable oil helps sauté the onions and garlic until they’re fragrant and golden.
- Onion: Diced onion adds depth to the flavor profile; you can use yellow or white varieties based on your preference.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the dish with aromatic goodness that’s hard to resist.
- Tomato Sauce: Use canned tomato sauce for a quick flavor boost; it provides moisture and rich color to your rice.
- Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to enhance the taste without overwhelming saltiness.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens up the dish with its refreshing flavor; feel free to adjust based on your taste.
- Spices (Cumin & Chili Powder): These spices add warmth and depth, creating that signature Mexican flavor profile we all love.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make mexican rice
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious mexican rice:
Step 1: Rinse the Rice
Begin by rinsing one cup of long-grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch for fluffier grains.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, add two tablespoons of vegetable oil. Once hot, sauté half an onion (diced) and three cloves of minced garlic until they’re soft and fragrant—about three minutes should do!
Step 3: Toast the Rice
Add the rinsed rice into the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir continuously for about two minutes until the rice turns slightly golden. This step adds a nutty flavor that’s simply irresistible!
Step 4: Add Liquid Ingredients
Pour in one cup of chicken broth and one cup of tomato sauce along with half a teaspoon each of cumin and chili powder. Stir well to combine all those delightful flavors.
Step 5: Simmer Until Fluffy
Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover tightly with a lid and let simmer for about twenty minutes or until all liquid is absorbed.
Step 6: Fluff & Garnish
Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional five minutes. Finally, fluff the rice with a fork, stir in freshly chopped cilantro, and serve warm alongside your favorite dishes!
Now that you’ve mastered this fantastic Mexican Rice recipe, you can enjoy it as a standalone meal or pair it with anything from grilled meats to roasted veggies! Just imagine that first bite—fluffy grains bursting with flavor—ahh! Your taste buds will thank you! grilled chicken kebabs.
You Must Know About mexican rice
- This amazing mexican rice offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting mexican rice Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add the rice to toast slightly. Pour in broth, followed by your favorite spices and veggies. Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer until fluffy perfection emerges.
Add Your Touch to mexican rice
Feel free to swap white rice for brown or jasmine for a different texture. Toss in black beans for protein, or sprinkle with cilantro and lime juice for a fresh kick. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating mexican rice
Store your leftover mexican rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, just add a splash of water and microwave or warm on the stove until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips for mexican rice
- This amazing mexican rice offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Use a good-quality broth instead of water to enhance the flavor of your mexican rice significantly.
Letting the cooked rice rest covered for 10 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Avoid lifting the lid while cooking; this keeps all that delicious steam trapped inside, ensuring perfectly fluffy grains.
I remember hosting taco night when I first mastered this recipe; my friends devoured every last grain of my mexican rice!
FAQs About mexican rice
What is mexican rice?
Mexican rice, also known as Spanish rice, is a flavorful side dish that often accompanies various Mexican meals. It typically consists of long-grain white rice cooked with ingredients such as tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices. The dish is usually sautéed in oil before adding the liquid to enhance its flavor and texture. sausage and peppers Mexican rice is beloved for its vibrant color and aromatic qualities, making it a staple at many Mexican restaurants and homes alike.
How do you make authentic mexican rice?
To create authentic Mexican rice, start by rinsing long-grain white rice to remove excess starch. Sauté chopped onions and garlic in oil until fragrant. Add the rinsed rice, stirring until lightly toasted. Then, incorporate diced tomatoes (fresh or canned), chicken broth, and seasonings like cumin and chili powder. spicy chili oil ramen Cover and simmer until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Fluff with a fork before serving to enhance its texture.
What can I serve with mexican rice?
Mexican rice pairs well with an array of dishes. You can serve it alongside classic meals like enchiladas, tacos, or grilled meats such as carne asada or pollo al pastor. Additionally, it complements beans, guacamole, and fresh salads beautifully. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of corn or a zesty salsa to elevate the flavors further.
Can you make mexican rice in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Mexican rice in advance! Cook the dish according to your recipe and allow it to cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about four to five days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of broth can help revive its moisture for optimal texture.
Conclusion for mexican rice
In summary, Mexican rice is a delicious and versatile dish that enhances any meal with its rich flavors and vibrant appearance. By using simple ingredients like long-grain white rice and fresh vegetables, you can create a delightful side that complements various main courses. Whether it’s served with tacos or grilled meats, Mexican rice remains a favorite at family gatherings and festive occasions. Enjoy this culinary staple in your kitchen!

Mexican Rice
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Mexican rice is a colorful and flavorful dish that adds a touch of fiesta to any meal. This easy-to-make recipe features fluffy long-grain white rice simmered in zesty tomato sauce and aromatic spices, making it the perfect side for tacos, grilled meats, or even as a standalone vegetarian delight. With its customizable ingredients, this dish ensures warmth and happiness at your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water until clear.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat vegetable oil. Sauté onion and garlic for about 3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the rinsed rice and toast for 2 minutes until slightly golden.
- Stir in chicken broth, tomato sauce, cumin, and chili powder; mix well.
- Bring to a boil, cover with a lid, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
- Let sit covered for an additional 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork and stirring in cilantro.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg