Simple Mexican Rice Recipe
One staple that graces every Mexican table, from humble family dinners to grand celebrations, is Mexican Rice. This flavorful side dish is the perfect companion to your favorite tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meats.
This recipe is pretty easy and you can make this fiesta of flavors at home for a fun addition to your TexMex meals. Let’s get cooking!
What to Pair Mexican rice with
What you need to make Mexican rice
1 cup of long-grain white rice – The star of our show!
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil – For that perfect golden touch.
1 small onion, finely chopped – Adds a lovely sweetness.
2 cloves of garlic, minced – Because garlic makes everything better.
1 cup of tomato sauce – Gives our rice that beautiful color.
2 cups of chicken broth – Adds depth of flavor.
1 teaspoon of salt – To enhance all those wonderful flavors.
1 teaspoon of cumin – For a warm, earthy touch.
1 cup of frozen peas and carrots – Optional, but adds color and nutrition.
How to make Mexican rice
Heat the Oil:
In a large saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the rice. Stir constantly to coat the rice evenly with oil and to prevent it from burning. Cook until the rice turns a beautiful golden brown. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Add Aromatics:
Add the finely chopped onion to the saucepan. Cook until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Incorporate the Sauce:
Pour in the tomato sauce and stir to combine. Let the mixture cook for about 1 minute, allowing the tomato sauce to infuse the rice with its rich flavor.
Simmer with Broth:
Add the chicken broth, salt, and cumin. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid and let the rice simmer gently for 20 minutes.
Add Vegetables:
If you’re adding peas and carrots, stir them in after the rice has been cooking for 15 minutes. Replace the lid and continue cooking for the remaining 5 minutes.
Fluff and Serve:
Once the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed, remove the saucepan from the heat. Let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
Tips for Perfect Mexican Rice
Don’t skip browning the rice: This step adds a nutty flavor and helps the rice maintain its structure.
Use good-quality chicken broth: It makes a big difference in flavor. You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Customize your veggies: Feel free to add corn, bell peppers, or any other veggies you love.
How to store leftover Mexican rice
Once your rice is cooled and in an airtight container, place it in the refrigerator. Leftover Mexican Rice will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days when stored properly in the fridge.
You can freeze Mexican rice in air-tight containers for storage for 1-2 months.
Pairing Suggestions
Mexican Rice pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:
Tacos: Whether you prefer beef, chicken, or veggie tacos, Mexican Rice is a perfect side. Make your own taco seasoning for more flavor.
Enchiladas: Add a side of refried beans, and you’ve got a feast!
Grilled Meats: Serve it alongside grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp for a satisfying dinner.
There you have it—a simple yet delicious recipe for Mexican Rice that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. It’s versatile, flavorful, and brings a taste of Mexico to your kitchen. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don’t forget to share your creations with us!
