Easy Mexican Rice Recipe

Introduction

Easy Mexican Rice is a flavorful and vibrant side dish that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner or festive gathering. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have tender, savory rice infused with classic Mexican spices in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 1 ½ cups chicken stock or broth
• 8 oz. can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin

Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse the rice thoroughly in a mesh strainer under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming mushy.
2. Step 2: Heat the vegetable oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until the rice becomes translucent.
3. Step 3: Pour in the chicken stock or broth, tomato sauce, chili powder, garlic salt, and ground cumin. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Step 4: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the rice simmer for 20 minutes without lifting the lid so the liquid can absorb and the rice cooks fully.
5. Step 5: Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit covered for 2-3 minutes. Then gently fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth without changing the flavor balance.
• Add finely chopped fresh cilantro or squeeze fresh lime juice over the rice before serving for extra brightness.
• For a spicier kick, include a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños when sautéing the rice.

Storage

Store leftover Mexican rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water to restore moisture before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust cooking time to about 40-45 minutes and increase broth to 2 ½ cups for best results.

What can I serve with Mexican rice?

Mexican rice pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, beans, tacos, enchiladas, or as a base for a burrito bowl.

Easy Mexican Rice Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 149 reviews

This easy Mexican Rice recipe offers a flavorful and colorful side dish, made with long-grain rice cooked in a savory blend of tomato sauce, chicken stock, and spices. It’s perfect for complementing Mexican meals or serving as a tasty standalone dish, ready in just 25 minutes and serving eight.

• Author: Stella
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 1 ½ cups chicken stock or broth
• 8 oz. can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin

Instructions

1. Rinse the Rice: Rinse the rice thoroughly in a mesh strainer under cold running water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch to prevent the rice from becoming mushy when cooked.
2. Sauté the Rice: Heat the vegetable oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently until the rice grains turn translucent, which enhances flavor and texture.
3. Add Seasonings and Liquid: Pour in the chicken stock, tomato sauce, chili powder, garlic salt, and ground cumin. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly in the saucepan.
4. Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated and the tomato sauce starts to blend into the rice.
5. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan tightly, and let the rice simmer gently for 20 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this time to allow proper absorption of liquids and full cooking of the rice.
6. Rest and Fluff: After simmering, remove the pan from heat and let it sit covered for 2 to 3 minutes to finish steaming. Then uncover and fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains before serving.

Notes

• Rinsing the rice is crucial to prevent clumping and to get fluffy, separated grains.
• Use chicken stock for more depth of flavor, or substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• Adjust chili powder to your preferred spice level.
• This rice pairs well with Mexican dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meats.
• Keep the lid on while simmering to ensure the rice cooks evenly and all liquid is absorbed.

Keywords: Mexican rice, easy rice recipe, side dish, tomato rice, seasoned rice, quick Mexican side