If you have ever craved the comforting, vibrant side dish that steals the show at any Mexican meal, then you’re in for a treat with this Homemade Mexican Rice Recipe. Bursting with rich flavors from toasted rice to a hint of smoky spices and a splash of tomato goodness, this recipe is straightforward yet incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a kitchen newbie, this dish brings together simple ingredients to create that authentic taste that pairs beautifully with tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meats. Trust me, once you try making this at home, restaurant-style Mexican rice will never feel out of reach again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Homemade Mexican Rice Recipe calls for ingredients that are pantry staples but pack a punch in flavor and color. Each component plays a crucial role, from giving the rice a perfectly toasted texture to infusing it with warm, earthy spices that make every bite delicious.
- Long-grain white rice: The base of the dish, chosen for its fluffy texture when cooked.
- Vegetable oil: Helps toast the rice evenly, adding a subtle nutty flavor.
- Yellow onion, finely chopped: Brings sweetness and depth to the dish.
- Garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant punch that complements the spices.
- Tomato sauce: Provides vibrant color and tangy richness.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Tenderizes the rice and infuses it with savory undertones.
- Ground cumin: Imparts a warm, earthy flavor classic to Mexican cuisine.
- Chili powder: Adds mild heat and complexity without overpowering.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
- Black pepper: Gives a slight bite balancing the spices.
- Frozen peas (optional): Introduces a pop of sweetness and texture.
- Chopped carrots (optional): Adds color vibrancy with a touch of natural sweetness.
- Chopped cilantro for garnish: Brings fresh herbal notes and brightens the presentation.
How to Make Homemade Mexican Rice Recipe
Step 1: Toast the Rice to Perfection
Start by heating the vegetable oil over medium heat in a large skillet or saucepan. Once warm, add the long-grain white rice and stir it frequently. This step is crucial as it gives the rice a fantastic golden-brown color and a toasty aroma that forms the flavor foundation for the entire dish. Keep stirring for about 5 to 7 minutes until you see the rice take on that light caramelized hue.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Next, toss in the finely chopped yellow onion and cook it for 2 to 3 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. This sweetness from the onion balances out the acidity of the tomato sauce later on. Then, add the minced garlic and cook just 30 seconds more until fragrant, making sure not to let it brown or burn.
Step 3: Add Tomato Sauce and Spices
Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth, followed by the ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper for that authentic smoky and mildly spicy flavor profile. Stir everything gently so the rice is evenly coated, then bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let the rice simmer for 18 to 20 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender. If you’re including peas and carrots, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking so they stay vibrant and slightly crisp.
Step 5: Fluff and Garnish
Remove the pan from heat but keep it covered for an additional 5 minutes—this resting time lets the steam finish cooking the rice perfectly. Finally, fluff the rice gently with a fork and sprinkle chopped cilantro on top to add a fresh, bright note that lifts the entire dish.
How to Serve Homemade Mexican Rice Recipe
Garnishes
While cilantro is a classic topping, you can also elevate your presentation with a lime wedge on the side for a zesty kick, or scatter some diced fresh tomatoes or sliced green onions to add a burst of color and freshness that complements the warm rice beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Mexican rice shines as a side alongside grilled chicken, carne asada, or your favorite bean dishes. It also pairs wonderfully with cheesy enchiladas, crispy tacos, or even as part of a vegetarian plate alongside sautéed peppers and guacamole for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve the rice in small individual bowls garnished with avocado slices and a drizzle of crema or sour cream. You could also use it as a base for a Mexican rice bowl topped with beans, grilled veggies, and your favorite proteins for a balanced and colorful dinner. The options are endless and easy to customize!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Homemade Mexican Rice Recipe, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll keep well for up to 4 days, making it a handy staple for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Freezing
To freeze, allow the rice to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or large freezer bag. It can last up to 2 months this way. When you’re ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat your homemade Mexican rice gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, fluffing in between to avoid clumping, and enjoy the vibrant flavors like it’s freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but keep in mind it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Brown rice also has a chewier texture, so the outcome will be a bit different but still delicious.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! Simply swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth to make this Homemade Mexican Rice Recipe vegetarian-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
What can I do if I like spicier rice?
Feel free to add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat. You could also toss in some finely chopped jalapeños during the onion and garlic step to amplify the spice level.
Can I make this rice recipe in a rice cooker?
While the stovetop method is recommended for toasting the rice and deepening flavor, you can adapt this recipe for a rice cooker by skipping the toasting step and simply combining the ingredients. Keep in mind the flavor won’t be quite the same without that toasted rice aroma.
What are some good protein options to serve with this rice?
This rice pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, beef, pork carnitas, shrimp, or vegetarian options like black beans or grilled tofu. It acts as a flavorful and colorful base for just about any protein!
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Mexican Rice Recipe is more than just a side dish — it’s a celebration of bold flavors, simple ingredients, and the warmth of sharing good food with others. Once you master this recipe, you’ll have a trusted go-to for any Mexican-inspired meal that feels authentically delicious and inviting. Give it a try and see how easy it is to add that vibrant touch to your dinner table every time.
Print
Homemade Mexican Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Homemade Mexican Rice recipe is a flavorful and authentic side dish perfect for any Mexican-inspired meal. Made with long-grain white rice toasted to a golden brown, sautéed onions and garlic, and simmered in a seasoned tomato and chicken broth mixture, it offers a deliciously aromatic profile. Optional peas and carrots add color and texture, while chopped cilantro provides a fresh finishing touch. Easy to prepare on the stovetop, this recipe yields a light, fluffy rice that pairs wonderfully with tacos, grilled meats, or beans.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Vegetables
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots
Garnish
- Chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Toast the Rice: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the long-grain white rice and cook, stirring frequently, until it turns golden brown, about 5 to 7 minutes. Toasting the rice enhances its nutty flavor and improves texture.
- Sauté Aromatics: Stir in the finely chopped onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Liquids and Spices: Pour in the tomato sauce and low-sodium chicken broth into the skillet. Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well to combine the flavors evenly.
- Simmer the Rice: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, and let simmer for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been fully absorbed.
- Add Optional Vegetables: If you choose to include peas and carrots, stir them into the rice during the last 5 minutes of cooking to heat through without overcooking.
- Rest and Fluff: Remove the skillet from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes to finish steaming. Then, fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the rice before serving to add freshness and vibrant color. Serve warm as a side dish to complement your meal.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- To achieve a more authentic flavor, blend fresh tomatoes with onion and garlic instead of using tomato sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Make sure to toast the rice thoroughly to develop the signature flavor and help prevent clumping.
