Easy Mexican Rice Recipe (with Video)

Easy Mexican Rice Recipe: Mexican rice is a flavorful and colorful dish that complements many Mexican meals. Whether you’re making tacos, enchiladas, or fajitas, this rice brings a touch of authenticity and taste to your plate. Despite being commonly called “Spanish Rice,” it is distinctly Mexican, with origins in Latin American cuisine. The rich, slightly tangy, and savory flavors come from tomatoes, garlic, onions, and spices, making it a must-have for any Mexican feast.

If you’ve ever struggled with making the perfect fluffy and flavorful Mexican rice, don’t worry! This guide will take you through a foolproof step-by-step method to get restaurant-style rice at home.

Ingredients for Mexican Rice

To make authentic Mexican rice, you’ll need a few basic pantry ingredients.

Basic Ingredients:

• 1 cup white rice (long-grain preferred)
• 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor:

• 1/2 cup peas and carrots (for a traditional touch)
• 1 jalapeño, diced (for some heat)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (for garnish)
• Juice of half a lime (for a tangy kick)

Tools Needed to Cook Mexican Rice

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools:

Cooking Essentials:

• A medium-sized saucepan with a lid
• A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• A cutting board and knife for chopping vegetables

Optional Tools for Convenience:

• A blender or food processor (if you prefer a smoother tomato sauce)
• A measuring cup and spoons for precise ingredient portions

Preparing the Ingredients

Washing and Soaking the Rice

For the fluffiest Mexican rice, it’s essential to rinse the rice thoroughly. This removes excess starch, which can cause the rice to become sticky instead of light and fluffy.

1. Place the rice in a fine-mesh strainer.
2. Rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear.
3. Drain well and let it sit for a few minutes to dry slightly.

Chopping Vegetables

• Finely chop the onion and garlic.
• If using fresh tomatoes instead of tomato sauce, blend them into a puree.
• Dice any additional vegetables or jalapeños you want to include.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Mexican Rice

Step 1: Toasting the Rice

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the rinsed and drained rice.
3. Stir constantly for 4-5 minutes until the rice turns a light golden brown.
4. This step enhances the flavor and prevents mushy rice.

Step 2: Adding the Tomato Sauce and Spices

1. Once the rice is golden, add the chopped onions and garlic.
2. Sauté for 2 minutes until the onions turn translucent.
3. Stir in the tomato sauce, salt, cumin, chili powder, and paprika.
4. Mix well to coat the rice evenly.

Step 3: Simmering to Perfection

1. Pour in 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer for 18-20 minutes.
4. Do not stir while the rice is cooking, as this can make it sticky.

Step 4: Fluffing and Serving

1. After 20 minutes, turn off the heat and let the rice sit for 5 minutes with the lid on.
2. Remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork.
3. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice before serving.

Tips for Perfect Mexican Rice

• Toast the rice well before adding liquids for extra flavor.
• Use the right ratio of liquid to rice (2:1) to prevent sogginess.
• Let the rice sit after cooking to absorb excess moisture.
• Avoid stirring while cooking to keep it fluffy.

Variations of Mexican Rice

• Vegan Mexican Rice – Use vegetable broth and add extra veggies.
• Spicy Mexican Rice – Add more chili powder or diced jalapeños.
• Mexican Brown Rice – Substitute white rice with brown rice and increase the cooking time.

What to Serve with Mexican Rice

• Tacos (Chicken, beef, or vegetarian)
• Burritos or Enchiladas
• Grilled Chicken or Steak
• Black Beans and Guacamole

How to Store and Reheat Mexican Rice

Storage:

• Let the rice cool completely before storing.
• Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Reheating:

• Microwave: Add a splash of water, cover, and microwave for 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over low heat with a bit of oil or water, stirring occasionally.

FAQs about Easy Mexican Rice Recipe

1. What ingredients do I need for easy Mexican rice?

You’ll need long-grain white rice, vegetable oil, onion, garlic, chicken or vegetable broth, tomato sauce, and traditional spices like cumin, chili powder, and salt. Optional add-ins include peas, carrots, and fresh cilantro for garnish.

2. How do I cook the rice to avoid it becoming mushy?

The key to fluffy Mexican rice is to sauté the rice in oil until it’s lightly toasted before adding the liquids. This helps each grain of rice stay separate and not clump together.

3. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice can be used for a healthier option, but keep in mind it will need a longer cooking time and slightly more liquid compared to white rice. Adjust the cooking time according to the type of brown rice you use.

4. How much liquid do I need for this recipe?

Typically, the ratio is about 2 cups of liquid (broth plus tomato sauce) for every 1 cup of rice. This ratio ensures the rice is cooked properly without being too dry or too soggy.

5. Can I make this rice in a rice cooker?

Yes, you can make Mexican rice in a rice cooker. Follow the same initial steps to sauté the rice and aromatics, then transfer everything to the rice cooker, add the liquid, and cook according to your machine’s instructions.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Mexican rice recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels on your broth and tomato sauce to make sure they don’t contain any hidden gluten.

7. What dishes pair well with Mexican rice?

Mexican rice pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, burritos, or alongside grilled chicken or fish. It’s also great under a hearty pour of chili or served with beans for a complete meal.

8. How should I store leftover Mexican rice?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can reheat it in the microwave, adding a few drops of water to help rehydrate the rice.