This Authentic Mexican Rice is fluffy, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned, making it the ideal side dish for your favorite Mexican meals. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll create a restaurant-quality dish right at home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic Flavor: Made with tomato sauce and authentic spices for a rich, traditional taste.
- Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for pairing with tacos, burrito bowls, and more.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples for an easy, affordable dish.
- Customizable: Adjust the spiciness, add veggies, or even incorporate proteins.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (Jasmine rice works well)
- 4-8 ounces canned tomato sauce (use more or less based on preference)
- 2 cups water (or low-sodium chicken broth for added flavor)
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic (about 2 cloves)
- 2 teaspoons Caldo de Tomate (tomato bouillon, or substitute chicken bouillon)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
Directions
Step 1: Brown the Rice
Heat the oil in a 3-quart sauté pan over medium heat. Add the rice and stir to coat. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice turns bright white and then golden.
Step 2: Add Seasonings
Stir in the chili powder, Caldo de Tomate, and minced garlic. Mix well to coat the rice evenly with the seasonings.
Step 3: Add Liquid
Pour in the water and tomato sauce. Stir to combine, ensuring the rice is submerged.
Step 4: Cook
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan with a lid and let the rice simmer for 20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed.
Step 5: Rest and Fluff
Turn off the heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Servings: 6
Variations
- Add Veggies: Toss in frozen peas and carrots before covering the pan for a burst of color and flavor.
- Spicy Rice: Add chopped serrano peppers or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
- Protein Boost: Mix in shredded chicken, cooked shrimp, or beans for a heartier dish.
- Tomato Options: Adjust the amount of tomato sauce to make it saucier or drier based on your preference.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerating: Let the rice cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Place cooled rice in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 6 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to restore moisture.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between Mexican rice and Spanish rice?
Mexican rice is tomato-based and often softer, while Spanish rice may include saffron, giving it a distinct yellow hue and firmer texture.
2. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes! Brown rice works well but will require more liquid and a longer cooking time (about 40-45 minutes).
3. What can I use as a substitute for Caldo de Tomate?
Chicken bouillon or vegetable bouillon can be used instead. Adjust seasoning to taste.
4. Why didn’t my rice cook properly in 20 minutes?
This could be due to uneven heat or not enough liquid. Cover and simmer for a few extra minutes, adding a small splash of water if needed.
5. Is this rice really authentic?
This recipe reflects the flavors of traditional Mexican rice but is adaptable to fit personal preferences and ingredient availability.
Top Tips
- Use a good-quality nonstick sauté pan to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Resist lifting the lid while cooking to maintain the steam needed for perfectly fluffy rice.
- If using tomato sauce, adjust the quantity to your desired sauciness level.
Conclusion
This Authentic Mexican Rice Recipe is a must-have for your recipe collection. It’s the perfect balance of flavor and simplicity, making it a crowd-pleasing addition to any meal. Serve it alongside tacos, enchiladas, or enjoy it as a base for burrito bowls. Your family and friends will love it!
Print
Authentic Mexican Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Learn how to make Authentic Mexican Rice that’s fluffy, flavorful, and perfect as a side dish or a base for your favorite Mexican-inspired meals! With simple ingredients like long-grain rice, tomato sauce, and spices, this recipe is quick, easy, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients
For the Rice:
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (e.g., Jasmine rice)
- 4–8 oz canned tomato sauce (adjust based on preference)
- 2 cups water
- 1 tsp minced garlic (about 2 cloves)
- 2 tsp Caldo de Tomate (tomato bouillon)
- 1 tsp chili powder
Instructions
1. Toast the Rice:
- Heat oil in a 3-quart sauté pan over medium heat.
- Add the rice and stir to coat in the oil.
- Cook, stirring frequently, for 3-5 minutes until the rice turns golden.
2. Add Spices:
- Stir in chili powder, Caldo de Tomate, and minced garlic until evenly combined.
3. Combine Liquids:
- Pour in water and tomato sauce, stirring to mix thoroughly.
4. Simmer the Rice:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan.
- Simmer for 20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed.
5. Rest and Fluff:
- Turn off the heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Notes
- Tomato Sauce: Use 4 oz for a lightly sauced rice or 8 oz for a richer tomato flavor. Freeze any leftover sauce for later use.
- Vegetables: Add frozen peas and carrots before covering for additional color and nutrition.
- Rinsing Rice: Rinsing is optional and not required for this recipe.
- Optional Add-ins: For added flavor, include chopped serrano peppers or fresh Roma tomatoes before serving.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *