Best Mexican Rice Recipe – Simple and Delicious

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Mexican rice is a cornerstone of vibrant, flavorful meals. Whether served alongside tacos, enchiladas, or grilled chicken, this dish brings a rich, aromatic touch to your table. If you’ve ever wondered how to make authentic, restaurant-style Mexican rice at home, you’re in the right place. With this Best Mexican Rice Recipe, you can enjoy a perfectly seasoned, fluffy side dish that’s both simple and delicious.

Ingredients for the Best Mexican Rice

Here’s everything you’ll need to get started:

IngredientQuantity
Vegetable oil3 tablespoons
Long-grain rice (uncooked)1 cup
Garlic salt1 teaspoon
Ground cumin1/2 teaspoon
Chopped onion1/4 cup
Chicken broth2 cups
Tomato sauce1/2 cup

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Gather Your Ingredients

  • Start by assembling all the ingredients. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.

2. Heat the Oil

  • Heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Ensure the oil is hot but not smoking.

3. Toast the Rice

  1. Add the uncooked long-grain rice to the hot oil.
  2. Season with 1 teaspoon garlic salt and 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin.
  3. Stir constantly until the rice becomes puffed and golden brown. This step enhances the flavor and ensures a nutty aroma.

4. Add the Onion

  • Stir in the chopped onion and cook for about 2 minutes or until softened. The onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the dish.

5. Combine the Liquids

  1. Pour in the 2 cups of chicken broth and 1/2 cup of tomato sauce.
  2. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.

6. Simmer the Rice

  1. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the rice simmer for 20-25 minutes.
  2. Avoid lifting the lid during this time to ensure even cooking.

7. Fluff and Serve

  • Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. Serve warm as a side dish or base for your favorite Mexican recipes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Authentic Flavor: The perfect balance of garlic, cumin, and tomato makes this rice a classic accompaniment to any Mexican dish.
  • Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible to all cooking skill levels.
  • Customizable: Adjust the spices or add veggies like peas and carrots for a personal touch.
  • Versatile: Use it as a side dish, stuffing for burritos, or even as a filling for stuffed peppers.

Nutritional Information

NutrientPer Serving (1 Cup)
Calories200
Total Fat7g
Saturated Fat1g
Cholesterol5mg
Sodium450mg
Total Carbohydrates30g
Dietary Fiber1g
Sugars2g
Protein4g

Tips for Perfect Mexican Rice

1. Toast the Rice Thoroughly

  • Don’t rush the toasting step. Properly browned rice is key to achieving the nutty flavor that defines great Mexican rice.

2. Use Good Quality Broth

  • Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content while enhancing the flavor.

3. Keep the Lid On

  • Avoid opening the lid while the rice simmers to ensure it cooks evenly and absorbs all the liquid.

4. Add Vegetables

  • Stir in frozen peas, diced carrots, or corn during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added color and nutrition.

5. Make It Vegan

  • Swap chicken broth with vegetable broth for a delicious vegan version.

FAQs About Mexican Rice

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

Yes, but adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice takes longer to cook and requires more broth.

2. How do I store leftover rice?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.


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3. Can I freeze Mexican rice?

Absolutely! Freeze in a resealable bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

4. What if my rice turns out mushy?

This usually happens when there’s too much liquid or the lid is removed during cooking. Measure carefully and keep the lid on until done.

5. Can I make this recipe spicier?

Yes! Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the rice for an extra kick.

6. What pairs well with Mexican rice?

Tacos, enchiladas, grilled chicken, and refried beans are all excellent pairings.

Creative Ways to Serve Mexican Rice

1. In Burrito Bowls

  • Use Mexican rice as a base and layer with beans, grilled vegetables, and your favorite protein.

2. As a Stuffing

  • Fill bell peppers or zucchini with Mexican rice for a hearty, flavorful meal.

3. With Breakfast

  • Serve alongside eggs and avocado for a savory morning treat.

4. In Soups

  • Stir cooked Mexican rice into tomato-based soups or stews for added texture and flavor.

Your Turn to Cook!

This Best Mexican Rice Recipe is your ticket to recreating authentic, flavorful rice at home. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, hosting a party, or just craving comfort food, this recipe will not disappoint. So grab your ingredients, heat up your pan, and start cooking. A delicious bowl of Mexican rice awaits!

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Best Mexican Rice Recipe – Simple and Delicious


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  • Author: Melany
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Transform your meals with this Best Mexican Rice Recipe, a flavorful and aromatic side dish that pairs perfectly with tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meats. With a simple blend of spices, broth, and tomato sauce, this dish is the epitome of restaurant-style rice made effortlessly at home. Perfectly seasoned and fluffy, it’s a must-have addition to any meal.


Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce

Instructions

 Prepare Your Ingredients

  • Gather and measure all the ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process.

2. Heat the Oil

  • Heat vegetable oil in a large saucepan over medium heat until shimmering.

3. Toast the Rice

  • Add the uncooked rice to the hot oil. Sprinkle with garlic salt and ground cumin.
  • Stir frequently, toasting the rice until it turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma.

4. Add Onion

  • Stir in the chopped onion and sauté for 2 minutes or until softened, enhancing the flavor base.

5. Add Liquids

  • Pour in the chicken broth and tomato sauce. Stir to combine, and bring the mixture to a boil.

6. Simmer

  • Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and let the rice simmer for 20-25 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this time.

7. Fluff and Serve

  • Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains, then serve warm as a side dish or base for your favorite Mexican-inspired meals.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
  • Toasting the rice thoroughly is key to achieving the authentic flavor and texture of Mexican rice.
  • Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican

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