This Mexican Rice Recipe (Easy and Flavorful) is the perfect side dish to elevate any meal. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, this rice dish complements a variety of cuisines. Whether you’re hosting a fiesta or enjoying a casual dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Its simplicity and bold taste make it a go-to choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Mexican rice recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Base: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients adds a delicious depth, transforming plain rice into a savory delight.
- Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with tacos, grilled meats, or as part of a hearty bowl; it fits perfectly with many meals.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level or add vegetables based on your preference for endless variations.
- Healthy Option: Made with wholesome ingredients, this rice dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready will help you whip up this flavorful dish in no time.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large saucepan
- Fine mesh sieve
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large saucepan: A spacious pan allows even cooking of the rice and prevents sticking.
- Fine mesh sieve: Washing the rice thoroughly will remove excess starch, resulting in fluffier grains.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: These tools help in safely stirring without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
This easy Mexican rice recipe turns your basic white rice into a vibrant and flavorful side dish. Watch the video below to see how I make it!
For the Rice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- ½ red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 small jalapeno (seeded and finely diced)
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Kosher salt (to taste)
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
For Garnish
- Optional: finely chopped cilantro for garnish
How to Make Mexican Rice Recipe (Easy and Flavorful)
Step 1: Wash the Rice
Thoroughly wash and drain the rice using a fine mesh sieve. This step helps remove excess starch for fluffier rice.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions, minced garlic, red bell pepper, and jalapeno. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until the onions become translucent.
Step 3: Toast the Rice
Add the long grain white rice to the pan. Sauté for about 2 minutes until it’s lightly toasted and golden brown.
Step 4: Add Flavors
Stir in cumin, kosher salt, tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 5: Cook the Rice
Bring the mixture to a boil. Then cover the pan, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked through.
Step 6: Fluff and Serve
Remove from heat once done cooking. Use a fork to fluff up the rice gently.
Step 7: Garnish
Garnish with finely chopped cilantro before serving immediately for added freshness.
How to Serve Mexican Rice Recipe (Easy and Flavorful)
Serving your Mexican rice recipe can elevate your meal and impress your guests. There are many ways to enjoy this vibrant side dish, making it a versatile addition to any table.
With Grilled Proteins
- Chicken Fajitas – Pair the rice with seasoned grilled chicken for a colorful and hearty meal.
- Steak Tacos – Serve alongside steak tacos for a fulfilling combination of flavors.
- Shrimp Skewers – The lightness of shrimp complements the richness of the rice perfectly.
As Part of a Burrito Bowl
- Burrito Bowl Base – Use Mexican rice as a base for burrito bowls topped with beans, salsa, and avocado.
- Layered Salad – Create a layered salad with rice, lettuce, pico de gallo, and cheese for a fresh twist.
In Tacos or Enchiladas
- Stuffed Tacos – Fill soft or hard taco shells with Mexican rice along with your favorite toppings.
- Enchilada Filling – Combine the rice with shredded chicken or cheese for a delicious enchilada filling.
How to Perfect Mexican Rice Recipe (Easy and Flavorful)
To ensure your Mexican rice turns out perfect every time, follow these simple tips that will enhance its flavor and texture.
- Bold Flavors – Use fresh ingredients like garlic and onion to enhance the overall taste.
- Proper Toasting – Toasting the rice lightly before adding liquids helps in achieving a nutty flavor.
- Right Ratios – Stick to the right ratio of liquid to rice; typically, 1 cup of rice requires 1.5 cups of broth.
- Let It Rest – Allow the cooked rice to sit covered for a few minutes off the heat before serving to let flavors meld.
Best Side Dishes for Mexican Rice Recipe (Easy and Flavorful)
Complementing your Mexican rice recipe with the right side dishes can create an unforgettable dining experience. Here are some great options:
- Black Beans – A classic pairing that adds protein and fiber to your meal.
- Guacamole – Creamy and rich, guacamole balances the flavors nicely.
- Corn Salsa – Fresh corn salsa adds sweetness and crunch that contrasts beautifully with the rice.
- Pico de Gallo – A fresh tomato salsa that brings brightness and acidity to your plate.
- Grilled Vegetables – Charred veggies like zucchini or bell peppers complement the dish’s flavors well.
- Quesadillas – Cheese quesadillas make for an easy-to-prepare side that everyone loves!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Mexican rice can be simple, but certain mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Using unwashed rice – Not washing the rice can result in a sticky texture. Always rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- Overcooking the rice – Leaving the rice on the heat too long can make it mushy. Follow cooking times closely and check for doneness a few minutes early.
- Neglecting seasoning – Skipping spices or salt can lead to bland flavor. Be sure to taste and adjust seasoning as needed throughout the cooking process.
- Not letting it rest – Serving rice immediately can result in clumping. Allowing it to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps separate the grains.
- Ignoring broth options – Using only water instead of broth can lessen the taste. Opt for vegetable or chicken broth for a more flavorful dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Mexican rice in an airtight container.
- It will last in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Make sure the rice is completely cooled before sealing it in a container.
Freezing Mexican Rice Recipe (Easy and Flavorful)
- Place the cooled rice in freezer-safe bags or containers.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Label containers with dates for easy tracking.
Reheating Mexican Rice Recipe (Easy and Flavorful)
- Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rice in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes, adding a splash of broth if dry.
- Microwave – Transfer the rice to a microwave-safe bowl, add a tablespoon of water, cover, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop – In a saucepan over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water. Stir in the rice and cook until heated through, about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making this easy and flavorful Mexican rice recipe.
How Do You Make Mexican Rice?
To make Mexican rice, sauté onions and peppers, add rinsed white rice, then mix with tomato sauce and broth before simmering until tender.
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead?
Yes, you can use brown rice; however, you will need to adjust cooking times as brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice.
What Other Ingredients Can I Add?
Consider adding corn, peas, or diced tomatoes for variations. You can also spice it up with additional herbs or chili powder.
How Long Does This Mexican Rice Recipe Last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, this Mexican rice will last about 4 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit any non-vegan garnishes.
Final Thoughts
This easy Mexican rice recipe is not only flavorful but also versatile enough to complement many dishes. It’s perfect as a side or even as a base for burrito bowls. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own! Enjoy this delightful dish that brings vibrant flavors right to your table!
Mexican Rice Recipe (Easy and Flavorful)
Elevate your meals with this vibrant Mexican rice recipe, a perfect side dish that combines simplicity with bold flavors. In just 30 minutes, you can transform basic white rice into a savory delight, enriched with spices, fresh vegetables, and a hint of tomato. This versatile dish pairs beautifully with tacos, grilled meats, or even as a base for burrito bowls. Its customizable nature means you can adjust the spice levels or add your favorite veggies to create your own version. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or enjoying a casual weeknight dinner, this easy Mexican rice will impress everyone at the table.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- ½ red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 small jalapeno (seeded and finely diced)
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Kosher salt (to taste)
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- Optional: finely chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Wash the rice thoroughly using a fine mesh sieve to remove excess starch.
- In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté diced onions, minced garlic, red bell pepper, and jalapeno until onions are translucent.
- Add rinsed rice and toast lightly for about 2 minutes until golden brown.
- Stir in cumin, salt, tomato sauce, and broth; mix well.
- Bring to a boil, cover and reduce heat to low; simmer for about 15 minutes or until rice is tender.
- Remove from heat and fluff gently with a fork.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Adjust spice levels by adding more jalapenos or chili powder if desired. For added nutrition, consider mixing in vegetables like corn or peas. Allow the rice to rest covered for a few minutes after cooking for better texture.
