Easy Mexican Rice Recipe

Introduction

Easy Mexican Rice is a flavorful and simple side dish that pairs perfectly with tacos, grilled meats, or beans. With a few pantry staples, you can create a vibrant, comforting rice full of warm spices and tomato goodness.

Ingredients

• 2-3 tablespoons canola or olive oil
• 1 ½ cups long grain white rice
• ½ cup finely diced onion
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups chicken broth (or water)
• ¾ cup tomato sauce
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin (or taco seasoning)
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
• Optional: Chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the rice and cook, stirring constantly, until the rice is lightly golden brown.
2. Step 2: Push the rice to one side of the skillet, add the diced onion, and cook until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Step 3: Mix the rice with the onion and garlic, then add the chicken broth, tomato sauce, ground cumin, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Step 4: Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the rice simmer for 25-35 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
5. Step 5: Remove from heat and fluff the rice with a fork. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Adding a diced jalapeño with the onion adds a nice spicy kick.
• Try substituting tomato sauce with diced tomatoes for a chunkier texture.

Storage

Store leftover Mexican rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to retain moisture.

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 will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust simmer time accordingly and check for doneness.

What can I serve with Mexican rice?

Mexican rice is a versatile side that complements dishes like tacos, enchiladas, grilled chicken, or beans for a complete meal.

Easy Mexican Rice Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 82 reviews

This Easy Mexican Rice recipe delivers a flavorful, fluffy side dish perfect for complementing any Mexican meal. Made with sautéed rice, onions, garlic, tomato sauce, and seasoned with cumin and salt, it’s a straightforward skillet-cooked dish that brings great taste with minimal effort.

• Author: Windy
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Rice and Seasoning

• 2–3 tablespoons canola or olive oil
• 1 ½ cups long grain white rice
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin (or taco seasoning)
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt

Vegetables and Flavorings

• ½ cup finely diced onion
• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
• ¾ cup tomato sauce

Liquids

• 3 cups chicken broth (or water)

Garnish (Optional)

• Chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat Oil and Toast Rice: In a large skillet, heat the canola or olive oil over medium heat. Add the long grain white rice and cook, stirring constantly, until the rice turns a light golden brown, which enhances the flavor.
2. Cook Onion and Garlic: Push the toasted rice to one side of the skillet. Add the finely diced onion to the empty side and cook until it softens. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma.
3. Combine Ingredients: Mix the toasted rice and softened onion and garlic together. Pour in the chicken broth (or water), tomato sauce, ground cumin, and kosher salt. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
4. Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet tightly and let the rice simmer gently for 25 to 35 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Fluff and Season: Remove the skillet from heat. Use a fork to fluff the rice gently, separating the grains. Taste and season with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper if desired. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving if you like.

Notes

• You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or water for a milder flavor.
• For spicier rice, add a pinch of chili powder or diced jalapeño along with the onion.
• If you want a vegetarian or vegan version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Be sure to keep the heat low during simmering and cover the skillet tightly to prevent the rice from drying out.
• Leftover rice can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated with a splash of water.

Keywords: Mexican rice, easy rice recipe, side dish, skillet rice, tomato rice, cumin rice