Learn how to make truly authentic Mexican Rice with this simple, family-secret recipe! Requiring just a handful of ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is the perfect addition to your Taco Tuesday or any Mexican-inspired meal. Elevate your Mexican food experience with this flavorful and fluffy rice.
This is hands down the best Mexican Rice recipe you’ll ever try. It’s incredibly easy to make and consistently delicious, making it our go-to side dish for any Mexican feast. We love serving this vibrant rice alongside classic dishes like Refried Beans or Slow Cooker Mexican Beans, Mexican Black Beans, and as a perfect complement to main courses such as Ground Beef Enchiladas, Chicken Tacos, Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas and Carne Asada.
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The Secret to Truly Authentic Mexican Rice
This Mexican Rice Recipe is not just another recipe; it’s a family treasure, one of my most requested dishes. From taquitos to tacos to hearty burritos, this rice is the perfect accompaniment to any Mexican dish. What makes it truly authentic? It comes straight from the heart of a Mexican kitchen – my cousin’s mother-in-law!
Years ago, my cousin generously shared this recipe with me, and it has become a weekly staple in my kitchen ever since. This authentic family recipe has been passed down through generations, originating from her mother-in-law who learned it from her own mother and grandmother. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity: white rice, tomato sauce, garlic, chili powder, and the key ingredient, Caldo de Tomate.
For me, this recipe is the closest you can get to the delicious Mexican rice served in authentic Mexican restaurants. While some might debate what constitutes “authentic,” for our family, this is the real deal!
Simple Ingredients for Perfect Mexican Rice
Let’s gather the few, straightforward ingredients you’ll need to create this flavorful Mexican rice:
- Oil: Versatility is key here. Vegetable oil, canola oil, corn oil, or even olive oil work wonderfully. Choose an oil with a high smoke point suitable for sautéing.
- Long Grain White Rice: Long grain white rice is the foundation of authentic Mexican rice. While Jasmine rice can be used successfully, avoid short grain varieties as their higher starch content can lead to a stickier texture. Brown rice can also be used, with slight modifications detailed in our FAQ section below.
- Tomato Sauce: Adjust the amount of tomato sauce to your preference. For a milder tomato flavor, use 4 ounces; for a richer, saucier rice, go up to 8 ounces.
- Caldo de Tomate: This is the secret ingredient! Caldo de Tomate is a tomato bouillon readily available in the Mexican food aisle of most supermarkets or with the dry soup mixes. If you can’t find it or prefer not to use it, chicken bouillon can be substituted, or you can simply omit it and use chicken broth instead of water for added flavor.
- Water: For an extra layer of flavor, consider substituting low-sodium chicken broth for water, especially if you are omitting the Caldo de Tomate.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mexican Rice
For detailed measurements and instructions, please refer to the recipe card at the end of this post.
Making perfect Mexican rice is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps:
Toasting long grain white rice in hot oil in a skillet, using a wooden spoon to stir
1. Toast the Rice: The first crucial step is toasting the rice. In a deep skillet or large saucepan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the long grain white rice and cook, stirring frequently, for about 3-5 minutes. You’ll notice the rice grains transition from translucent to bright white and then to a light golden hue. This toasting process is key to developing the nutty flavor and preventing mushy rice.
Pouring tomato sauce into the skillet with toasted rice, using a wooden spoon to combine
2. Add Flavor and Liquid: Once the rice is nicely toasted, add the tomato sauce, water (or chicken broth), Caldo de Tomate, minced garlic, and chili powder to the skillet. Stir everything together to ensure the spices are evenly distributed and the tomato sauce is incorporated.
3. Simmer to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet tightly, and let it simmer for 20 minutes. A clear lid is particularly helpful here, allowing you to monitor the liquid absorption without lifting the lid and releasing steam. After 20 minutes, check if the liquid has been fully absorbed and the rice is tender. If there’s still visible liquid, continue to cook, uncovered, for a few more minutes until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is fluffy.
Fluffing perfectly cooked Mexican Rice in a pan with a spoon, showcasing its restaurant-style texture
4. Rest and Fluff: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the steam to further distribute and ensures perfectly fluffy grains. Finally, fluff the rice gently with a fork or wooden spoon before serving.
Optional additions: For extra flavor and nutrition, feel free to stir in frozen vegetables like peas and carrots during the last few minutes of cooking. You can also add cooked chicken or other proteins for a heartier dish, similar to a Mexican rice casserole. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a fresh finish.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mexican Rice
What is the difference between Mexican Rice and Spanish Rice?
While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, Mexican Rice and Spanish Rice are distinct dishes. Although they share some ingredients, traditional Spanish Rice typically includes saffron threads, giving it a characteristic yellow color and unique flavor profile. Mexican rice, on the other hand, relies on tomatoes and spices like chili powder for its signature taste and reddish hue.
Whether you call it Mexican Rice or Spanish Rice, the most important thing is that you call it delicious!
What spices are essential for flavorful rice?
White rice, on its own, has a mild flavor. Spices are crucial for adding depth and character. For restaurant-style Mexican rice, garlic, tomato bouillon, and chili powder are key. For a classic rice pilaf, try chicken broth, onion, and garlic. And for authentic Spanish Rice, saffron is a must-have.
What can I substitute for Caldo de Tomate?
Caldo de Tomate is a key ingredient for authentic flavor, but if it’s unavailable, chicken bouillon can be used as a substitute. However, it will slightly alter the tomato-forward taste. Alternatively, you can use chicken broth instead of water and omit the bouillon altogether. For the most authentic restaurant-style Mexican Rice, we highly recommend using Caldo de Tomate if possible.
Remember to taste and adjust seasoning, especially salt, if you skip the bouillon, as Caldo de Tomate contributes saltiness to the dish.
Why is my rice undercooked after 20 minutes?
Cooking times can vary slightly depending on stovetops and cookware. If your rice is still undercooked after 20 minutes, it’s likely that the heat wasn’t quite high enough to maintain a steady simmer. Simply allow it to cook a bit longer until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender. If there’s still liquid remaining, you can also remove the lid, increase the heat to medium, and let the excess liquid evaporate while stirring gently until the rice is cooked through.
Is this recipe truly authentic?
Authenticity in cooking is often a matter of regional and family traditions. Just like barbecue sauces vary across different regions of the United States, Mexican Rice recipes differ throughout Mexico. This recipe is considered authentic based on family tradition and the flavor profile commonly found in Mexican restaurants. While it may not be identical to every family’s recipe, it captures the essence of authentic Mexican rice.
Which type of rice is best for Mexican Rice?
Long-grain white rice is the traditional and best choice for authentic Mexican Rice recipes. However, Jasmine rice can also be used successfully, offering a slightly different aroma and texture. Basmati rice, more commonly used in Indian cuisine, can also work well. Brown rice can be substituted for a healthier option, but it requires approximately 1/3 cup more liquid and an additional 10-20 minutes of cooking time.
Can I double this Mexican Rice recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe can easily be doubled to serve a larger crowd. Ensure you use a pot or skillet large enough to accommodate the increased volume, ideally a 5-quart or larger. Simply double all the ingredients, following the same cooking instructions. The cooking time should remain approximately 20 minutes.
Storage Tips for Mexican Rice
Can you freeze Mexican Rice? Yes! Leftover Mexican Rice freezes beautifully. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 5-6 days or in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Refrigerating: Allow the cooked rice to cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Thaw frozen rice completely before reheating. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or chicken stock to rehydrate the rice and restore its fluffy texture.
Top Tips and Tricks for Perfect Mexican Rice
- Use a Non-Stick Pan: For hassle-free cooking and easy cleanup, use a good quality nonstick sauté pan. A non-stick pan prevents the rice from sticking to the bottom and ensures even cooking. The higher sides of a sauté pan also minimize spillage while stirring. Avoid using stainless steel pans for cooking rice, as they are more prone to sticking.
- Resist Lifting the Lid: Steam is essential for cooking rice to perfection. As the rice steams, the grains absorb the liquid, becoming plump and fluffy. Lifting the lid releases this crucial steam, potentially resulting in undercooked or unevenly cooked rice.
- Tomato Sauce Adjustment: This recipe is updated to use a slightly reduced amount of tomato sauce compared to some older versions. While the original recipe called for an 8-ounce can, some cooks found it resulted in rice that was a bit too saucy. You can use anywhere from 4 to 8 ounces of tomato sauce, depending on your preferred level of tomato flavor and sauciness. For a milder tomato flavor, start with 4 ounces (½ cup). Freeze any leftover tomato sauce for future use.
- Vegetable Additions: Enhance your Mexican rice by adding cooked vegetables. Frozen peas and carrots are excellent choices and can be stirred in along with the water. Frozen vegetables are preferable to fresh vegetables, which can become overcooked and mushy during the rice cooking process.
- Fresh Tomato Garnish: For added color and freshness, stir in diced Roma tomato just before serving.
- Spice it Up with Serrano Peppers: For a touch of heat without overpowering the flavor, finely chopped Serrano peppers can be added. Sprinkle them on top of the rice just before covering the pan to simmer.
- Long-Grain Rice Variety: While long-grain white rice is recommended, you can experiment with different long-grain varieties. Jasmine rice is a popular alternative that many prefer for its aroma and slightly softer texture.
Authentic Mexican Rice recipe beautifully plated on a white platter with a sprig of parsley, ready to serve
Delicious Dishes to Serve with Mexican Rice
While Mexican Rice is a fantastic side dish on its own, it can also be incorporated into various main courses. Consider adding it to:
- Burrito bowls
- Stuffed bell peppers
- Chicken and rice casseroles
- Alongside grilled meats like carne asada or chicken fajitas
Explore More Mexican Recipes
Planning a Mexican fiesta? Mexican cuisine is a favorite! Discover more delicious Mexican inspired recipes including Crock Pot Chicken Tacos, Crock Pot Carnitas, Baked Salsa Chicken, and the famous homemade Guacamole!
For starters or snacks, try Mango Salsa or Shrimp Ceviche. For a unique Mexican dish, try Mexican Sopes.
Looking for more side dish options? Black Beans and Rice or Cilantro Lime Rice are excellent choices.
Even for breakfast, Mexican flavors shine with Chilaquiles! And don’t forget to pair your meal with refreshing Margaritas!
Recipe
Close-up shot of flavorful Mexican Rice in a bowl, highlighting its texture and color
Authentic Mexican Rice Recipe
4.67 from 910 votes
By Kristin Maxwell
The best Mexican rice recipe that delivers fluffy and richly flavored rice every time!
Prep Time 5 minutes mins
Cook Time 22 minutes mins
Total Time 27 minutes mins
Servings 6 servings
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Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 cup Long-grain white rice
- 4-8 ounces Canned tomato sauce (Use at least 4 or up to 8 ounces of tomato sauce, depending on preference)
- 2 cups Water
- 1 teaspoon Minced garlic (about 2 cloves)
- 2 teaspoons Caldo de Tomate tomato bouillon
- 1 teaspoon Chili powder
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Instructions
- Heat oil in a 3-quart sauté pan over medium heat. Add rice and stir to coat. Cook, stirring frequently, for 3-5 minutes, until rice begins to turn a golden color.
- Add chili powder, Caldo de Tomate (tomato bouillon), and minced garlic. Stir to combine and coat the rice.
- Pour in water and tomato sauce and stir to combine all ingredients.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until all water has been absorbed.
- Turn off the heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes to steam.
- Fluff rice gently with a fork and serve hot.
Recipe Notes
- Tomato Sauce Variation: Use 4 ounces (½ cup) tomato sauce for a milder flavor, or up to 8 ounces (1 cup) for a saucier rice. Freeze any leftover sauce for future use.
- Rinsing Rice: Rinsing the rice is optional and not necessary for this recipe.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to add cooked vegetables like peas and carrots before covering and simmering the rice.
Nutrition
Calories: 160kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 3gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 1mgSodium: 283mgPotassium: 105mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 181IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 13mgIron: 1mg
Nutritional Disclaimer: Kristin Maxwell of “Yellow Bliss Road” is not a registered dietitian or nutritionist, and any nutritional information provided is an estimate for informational purposes only. For accurate calorie counts and nutritional values, it is recommended to use a trusted online nutritional calculator with specific ingredient brands. Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and preparation methods.
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