This Easy Mexican Rice recipe is so simple, you’ll want to make it every Taco Tuesday or as a side dish for all your Mexican-inspired meals! It’s fluffy, flavorful, and kid-approved.
mexican rice in a bowl
Homemade Mexican rice is a staple in our house. We used to rely on boxed Spanish rice for convenience, but this recipe changed everything. It’s incredibly easy to make and delivers perfect fluffy rice every time. This version skips extra fillings, making it a hit with even the pickiest eaters.
My husband could eat tacos and rice every single day. While I love Mexican food too, I do try to encourage some variety in our date nights! But there’s no denying the comfort and deliciousness of a home-cooked Mexican meal, and this rice recipe is always on the menu.
Simple Ingredients for Delicious Mexican Rice
This recipe uses pantry staples to create a flavorful and vibrant side dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Long-grain white rice: Jasmine rice works beautifully for a fluffy texture, but regular long-grain rice is also great.
- Chicken broth or stock: While water works in a pinch, chicken broth adds depth of flavor.
- Tomato sauce: An 8-ounce can is all you need.
- Chili powder: Essential for that classic orange hue and subtle warmth (don’t worry, it’s not spicy!).
- Ground cumin: The key ingredient that distinguishes Mexican rice from Spanish rice.
- Garlic salt: Enhances the overall savory flavor.
- Vegetable or canola oil: Used for toasting the rice, a crucial step for achieving optimal texture.
Feel free to customize your rice by adding peas, diced tomatoes, or green chiles. Some people even substitute salsa for tomato sauce for a zestier kick. A squeeze of lime juice after cooking also adds a bright, citrusy note.
How to Make Easy Mexican Rice: A Step-by-Step Guide
This foolproof method ensures perfect results every time:
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Toast the Rice: In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the rice and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until the grains become translucent.
Pouring broth into rice pot -
Combine Ingredients: Add the chicken broth, tomato sauce, chili powder, garlic salt, and cumin to the pot. Stir well to combine.
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Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
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Simmer and Rest: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and simmer for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove from heat and let the rice stand, covered, for 5 minutes to allow it to steam and finish cooking. Fluff with a fork before serving.
Tips for Perfect Fluffy Mexican Rice
- Quality Rice: Use a mid-range brand of long-grain rice for best results.
- Adjust Cooking Time: If your rice is crunchy, increase the simmering time slightly. 20 minutes is usually perfect, but stovetops and pots can vary.
- Toast Thoroughly: Ensure the rice is translucent before adding the liquid. This step enhances the nutty flavor and prevents mushiness.
- Don’t Peek: Resist the urge to lift the lid while the rice simmers. This releases steam and can affect the cooking process.
- Rest and Fluff: Allowing the rice to rest before fluffing is crucial for achieving a light and airy texture.
Dishes to Pair with Your Easy Mexican Rice
This versatile side dish complements a wide variety of Mexican-inspired meals:
- Tacos
- Burritos
- Enchiladas
- Fajitas
- Chili con Carne
- Grilled Chicken or Fish
This simple recipe delivers authentic Mexican flavor with minimal effort. Enjoy!
