Mexican Rice Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This Mexican rice recipe is a crowd-pleaser, packed with flavor and easy to make. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up a dish that tastes like it came straight from your favorite restaurant.

• Bold flavors: The blend of tomatoes, garlic, and spices gives this rice a rich, savory taste that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect texture: Fluffy grains with just the right amount of bite make every forkful satisfying.
• Versatile side: It pairs beautifully with tacos, enchiladas, or even as a standalone dish for a quick meal.

Recipe

Mexican rice, also known as Spanish rice, is a flavorful and versatile side dish that complements a variety of meals. This recipe is easy to prepare and uses simple ingredients to create a dish that’s both aromatic and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup frozen peas (optional)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the rice and cook, stirring frequently, until it turns golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in the broth, tomato sauce, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
6. If using peas, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
7. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with cilantro, and serve.

Notes:

• For a spicier version, add a diced jalapeño with the onion and garlic.
• Confirm the rice is fully cooked before adding the peas to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Time:

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Serving: 4-6

Nutrition

This Mexican rice recipe is not only flavorful but also packed with essential nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content per serving:

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my Mexican rice with simple side dishes, like warm tortillas or a crisp salad, to keep things fresh and balanced. For protein, I often go for grilled chicken, seasoned beef, or black beans if I want a vegetarian option. Trust me, these combos make the meal feel complete without extra fuss.

Side Dishes

A bowl of fluffy Mexican rice pairs perfectly with so many tasty dishes, and I’ve got plenty of favorites to share. One of my go-tos is roasted veggies, like bell peppers and zucchini, because their caramelized edges add depth. Using simple culinary techniques, like tossing them in olive oil and seasoning with cumin, brings out amazing flavor profiles. I also love refried beans, creamy and warm, which contrast beautifully with the rice’s texture. A zesty avocado salad with lime dressing is another winner, adding freshness. Pairing these sides makes the meal feel complete and keeps every bite exciting.

Protein Options

While side dishes bring variety to the table, protein options take the meal to the next level, making it hearty and satisfying. I love pairing Mexican rice with chicken options like grilled chicken thighs or shredded rotisserie chicken—it’s quick, flavorful, and always a hit. For a vegetarian twist, I turn to bean varieties like black beans or pinto beans, which add creaminess and a boost of protein. Sometimes, I’ll even mix both for a hearty combo. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just yourself, these protein choices make the meal feel complete and keep everyone coming back for more.