Mexican Rice Recipe

Discover This Mexican rice recipe creates a flavorful side dish. It’s simple to make, perfect for any meal.

What is Mexican Rice Recipe?

Mexican rice, also called Spanish rice, is a popular side dish. It is a staple in many Mexican meals. Typically, it’s made with white rice, tomatoes, onion, and garlic. Broth, or water, is also used to cook the rice. Additionally, it is seasoned with spices like cumin. Furthermore, it gets its color from tomato paste or sauce. Basically, Mexican rice is savory and flavorful, complementing many main courses.

Key Mexican Rice Components

The main components of Mexican rice are quite simple. First, long-grain white rice is usually used. Then, there are tomatoes for flavor and color. Onions and garlic provide an aromatic base. Moreover, chicken broth is often used for cooking the rice. Also, spices like cumin and chili powder add depth. Indeed, the combination of these components creates the classic Mexican rice taste.

Rice Selection for Mexican Rice Recipe

Long-grain white rice is the usual choice for Mexican rice. Specifically, its texture is ideal for this dish. However, you can also use medium-grain rice. Nevertheless, do not use short-grain rice as it can get too sticky. Therefore, the long-grain rice makes the rice fluffy and separate.

The Importance of Aromatics

Onion and garlic are very important for flavor in Mexican rice. They give a base layer of taste. Specifically, sautéing them before adding the rice and other liquids unlocks their flavor. Consequently, they make the dish taste more savory and balanced.

Liquid Options for Cooking

Chicken broth is the traditional liquid for cooking Mexican rice. However, vegetable broth can also be used. Alternatively, water can be used as well. Furthermore, broth adds depth and flavor to the dish. Generally, the liquid choice impacts the final taste profile.

Mexican Mexican Rice Recipe: Ingredients

Component	Quantity	Notes
Long-grain white rice	1 cup	Uncooked
Chicken broth	2 cups	or vegetable broth
Tomato sauce	1/2 cup
Onion	1/2 medium	diced
Garlic	2 cloves	minced
Olive oil	1 tablespoon
Cumin	1 teaspoon	ground
Chili powder	1/2 teaspoon
Salt	1/2 teaspoon	or to taste

Mexican Mexican Rice Recipe: Directions

First, heat the olive oil in a medium-sized pot or saucepan over medium heat.

Then, add the diced onion and cook until it turns clear. This takes about 3-5 minutes.

Next, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Don’t let it burn.

After that, add the uncooked rice to the pot. Stir it to coat the rice with the oil and onion. Cook for 2-3 minutes.

Then, add the tomato sauce, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Stir well to combine all components together.

Bring the mixture to a boil. After it boils, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid.

Simmer for 15-20 minutes. Do not remove the lid while cooking. The rice should absorb all the liquid.

Once the liquid is absorbed, remove from heat. Allow it to sit, covered, for 5 more minutes. This will allow it to steam.

Finally, fluff the rice with a fork before serving. Serve hot as a side dish.

Mexican Rice Prep Time & Kcal

Metric	Value	Notes
Prep Time	10 minutes	Includes chopping the onion and garlic.
Cook Time	25 minutes	Cooking time for the rice.
Total Time	35 minutes	The combined time.
Kcal	Approx. 200 kcal per serving	Approx value and varies by serving size.

Freshly made Mexican rice recipe in a bowl. — A bowl of fluffy, flavorful Mexican rice

Cooking the Rice

Cooking the rice properly is key to success. Initially, sautéing the rice in oil helps create a nutty taste. Then, the correct water to rice ratio ensures perfect cooking. Specifically, simmering on low heat is important. Indeed, do not lift the lid while cooking for proper steaming. Ultimately, this will result in fluffy, well-cooked Mexican rice.

Achieving Perfect Texture

For the perfect texture, do not stir the rice while simmering. This will prevent the rice from becoming sticky. Therefore, allow the liquid to slowly absorb and cook the rice. Furthermore, letting the rice sit, covered, for a few minutes is essential. Consequently, this allows for the rice to fully steam and achieve the best texture.

Flavor Adjustments

Mexican rice can be adjusted to suit your taste. For example, add a pinch of cayenne for a bit of heat. Alternatively, use different tomatoes for a unique flavor. In addition, experiment with other spices to personalize the taste. Specifically, taste the dish and adjust based on what you like.

Serving Suggestions for Mexican Rice

Mexican rice is a great side dish for many meals. It pairs well with many Mexican and Tex-Mex options. For example, it is great with tacos, enchiladas, and burritos. Furthermore, it is also a good option with grilled meat or chicken. Indeed, it makes a satisfying addition to any meal.

Pairing with Main Dishes

Mexican rice compliments many main dishes. Particularly, it tastes great with dishes like grilled chicken or steak. It also tastes great with various bean dishes. Moreover, it makes a great side for any protein-rich entree. Ultimately, it is a perfect option for any main course.

Garnishes and Toppings

You can add garnishes to elevate your Mexican rice. Specifically, add fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness. Also, a sprinkle of cheese adds a savory flavor. Additionally, a squeeze of lime provides a bright citrusy touch. Indeed, these simple additions enhance the dish.

Using as a Base for Bowls

Mexican rice also makes a great base for burrito bowls. For example, top it with your favorite beans, meat, vegetables, and sauce. Furthermore, it is an easy and satisfying way to build a complete meal. Basically, it provides the ideal foundation for a flavorful bowl.

Mexican Rice Variations

There are many fun ways to make Mexican rice. For example, you can use different kinds of tomatoes. You can add peas or corn for added nutrients. Moreover, you can experiment with unique spice options. Specifically, all these variations allow you to get a new taste.

Adding Vegetables

Adding vegetables is a simple way to add color and nutrients. Specifically, peas, corn, or carrots work very well. Additionally, you can add chopped bell peppers or zucchini. Therefore, these can add sweetness and texture to the dish.

Different Tomato Options

Tomatoes add great flavor to Mexican rice. You can use fresh diced tomatoes, or canned diced tomatoes. Also, you can use tomato sauce or paste. Each option provides a slightly different flavor profile.

Exploring Different Spices

While cumin and chili powder are typical, you can use others. Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika. Furthermore, oregano adds a savory taste. Alternatively, use a dash of cayenne for extra heat. Indeed, these different spices add layers of flavor.

Tips for the Best Mexican Rice

Always use good quality components for the best taste. Be sure to cook the rice over low heat. Don’t remove the lid while simmering to ensure proper steaming. Always allow the rice to sit, covered, for a few minutes. Thus, these tips will make your Mexican rice perfect.

Sautéing the Rice

Sautéing the rice before cooking is very important. Specifically, this gives it a nutty flavor. It also coats the grains in oil, which stops it from getting too sticky. Consequently, this step gives the rice an improved texture and taste.

Low Simmer is Key

Low heat is essential for cooking Mexican rice. Specifically, high heat can cause the rice to burn. Simmering slowly helps the rice to cook evenly. Indeed, this low heat is needed for perfect texture.

Do Not Lift the Lid

While cooking the rice, keep the lid on the pot. Specifically, lifting the lid will let out steam. This will slow down the cooking process. Therefore, resist the temptation to open the pot during simmering.