If you’re looking to bring a fiesta of flavors to your dinner table, this Authentic Mexican Rice Recipe will quickly become your new staple. It’s vibrant, perfectly spiced, and boasts a beautiful color thanks to fresh tomatoes and a blend of warm seasonings that have been lovingly toasted and simmered to perfection. This rice isn’t just a side dish; it’s a celebration of real Mexican homestyle cooking that’s incredibly satisfying and surprisingly easy to make. Trust me, once you taste this, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients make for the best authentic dishes, and this rice is no exception. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and that signature texture that makes Mexican rice so unforgettable.
- 1/4 onion (roughly chopped): Adds sweetness and a slight bite when blended into the sauce.
- 1 clove garlic (smashed): Brings a warm, aromatic depth to your rice base.
- 1/4 red bell pepper (roughly chopped, optional): Adds a subtle sweetness and gorgeous color to your dish.
- 2 large roma tomatoes: The heart of the sauce, providing fresh acidity and vibrant red color.
- 1/2 cup water: Helps blend the sauce ingredients smoothly.
- 2 teaspoons roasted chicken better than bouillon: Imparts a rich, savory umami that deepens the flavor.
- 2 teaspoons tomato bouillon powder: Enhances the tomato essence and seasoning.
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt (or sea salt; use half if table salt): Balances the flavors and brings out the rice’s natural taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Delivers a warm, earthy spice that’s foundational in Mexican cooking.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: Adds a gentle kick and complexity without overwhelming heat.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Perfect for toasting the rice to golden perfection.
- 1 1/2 cups long grain white rice: The star of the show, known for fluffy, separate grains.
- 3-4 sprigs cilantro (left whole): Used in cooking for fresh, herbal notes; optional for cilantro fans.
How to Make Authentic Mexican Rice Recipe
Step 1: Make the Tomato Sauce
Start by adding the onion, garlic, red bell pepper (if using), roma tomatoes, roasted chicken better than bouillon, tomato bouillon powder, salt, cumin, chili powder, and half a cup of water to your blender. This combination is going to create an incredibly fresh, vibrant sauce that serves as the base for your rice. It’s the secret to that irresistible taste you’ll crave.
Step 2: Blend Until Smooth
Blend the mixture starting on low and gradually ramping up to high for about 30 to 60 seconds. You want everything completely liquified — no chunks! This ensures your rice will cook evenly and soak up every bit of flavor.
Step 3: Adjust and Measure the Liquid
Pour the blended sauce into a large liquid measuring cup, then add more water until you reach exactly 2 and 2/3 cups of liquid. This step is crucial: the right liquid-to-rice ratio means perfectly cooked rice, not mushy or dry. If your blended mixture has extra liquid beyond that, discard the excess.
Step 4: Toast the Rice
Heat your 3-quart saucepan over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Once shimmering, pour in the rice and stir constantly for 4 to 5 minutes. You’ll notice the grains turning golden and translucent while a delightful nutty aroma fills your kitchen. This toasting step is what gives the rice such a wonderful texture and flavor depth.
Step 5: Cool the Rice Briefly
Remove the pan from heat for about a minute while stirring. This cool-down is important because it minimizes dangerous spattering when you add the liquid. Safety first, especially when working with hot oil and sizzling sauce!
Step 6: Pour in the Tomato Sauce Mixture
Carefully pour the 2 and 2/3 cups of tomato sauce mixture into the rice. It will sizzle and spit, but this is exactly what you want — the rice is soaking up those flavors! Stir everything together so the grains are evenly coated.
Step 7: Add Cilantro Sprigs
Drop in your cilantro sprigs, stems and all, to infuse the rice with that fresh, herbaceous note. Don’t worry if you’re not a cilantro fan; this step is optional and can be skipped without a hitch.
Step 8: Bring to a Boil and Then Simmer
Turn the heat back on medium-high and bring the rice to a gentle boil. Give it one last good stir, then reduce the heat to low, cover your pot with a well-fitting lid, and let it simmer. This slow cooking allows the rice to absorb all the rich flavors and perfect moisture.
Step 9: Cook and Finish
Cook covered on low for 25 minutes without lifting the lid. Afterward, remove it from heat, take off the lid, and remove the cilantro sprigs, unless you want to stir them in for a more intense flavor.
Step 10: Fluff the Rice
Fluffing authentic Mexican rice is an art! Use a fork and gently pull from the edges toward the center to evenly distribute the tomato sauce without mashing the grains. Then cover and let the rice rest for 10 minutes to absorb all that beautiful saucy goodness.
Step 11: Final Fluff and Serve
Give the rice one last gentle fluff before digging in. You’ve just made the best Authentic Mexican Rice Recipe that will warm your soul and impress your family!
How to Serve Authentic Mexican Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime over the top can brighten your rice and give it that extra pop. Some love a few slices of avocado or a sprinkle of queso fresco for richness. Don’t forget that a little garnish can make a simple dish feel special.
Side Dishes
This rice pairs beautifully with classic Mexican staples like beans, grilled meats, or sautéed vegetables. For an authentic meal, try it alongside Traditional Tejano Pinto Beans or crispy tacos. It’s the kind of side dish that complements a wide array of proteins and veggies without stealing the spotlight.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Authentic Mexican Rice Recipe molded in small ramekins or mini bowls for a fancy touch at dinner parties. Or layer it in burrito bowls with your favorite toppings for a quick and festive meal. It’s versatile, and it shines whether on a casual weeknight plate or a celebratory spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 5 days. When reheating, sprinkle a little water over it and cover it to keep the rice moist and fluffy. This simple step revives that fresh-cooked texture beautifully.
Freezing
Freeze leftover rice in a well-sealed ziplock bag for up to 6 months. When you want some, no need to thaw completely — just open the bag slightly to vent and microwave at 50% power for a couple of minutes. Then add a splash of water, cover, and heat thoroughly. Easy and convenient for busy days!
Reheating
To warm up your rice, sprinkle it with water, cover (microwave-safe cover or plate), and microwave in short bursts to prevent drying out. Alternatively, reheat gently on the stovetop in a pan with a little oil or butter, stirring occasionally to keep it fluffy and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without cilantro?
Absolutely! The cilantro adds brightness but is completely optional. If you’re not a fan, simply skip adding the sprigs while cooking; the rice will still be delicious and packed with flavor.
What if I don’t have roasted chicken better than bouillon?
You can substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth, but keep in mind this might slightly change the flavor depth. The bouillon adds a concentrated savory note that really boosts the overall taste.
Is this rice spicy?
The chili powder adds warmth and a subtle kick but nothing overwhelming. If you want more heat, feel free to add extra chili powder or a pinch of cayenne. Otherwise, it’s mild and perfect for various palates.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
You can, but cooking times and liquid ratios will change. Brown rice requires more water and a longer cooking time, so if you want to experiment, adjust accordingly and keep in mind texture will be firmer.
Why do you toast the rice before cooking?
Toasting the rice in oil enhances its flavor and gives it that irresistible nutty aroma. It also helps the grains stay separate and fluffy after cooking rather than sticky or clumpy.
Final Thoughts
This Authentic Mexican Rice Recipe is a game changer in the kitchen, turning simple ingredients into a dish bursting with flavor and color. It’s perfect for any occasion and sure to become a family favorite. Grab your ingredients, follow these steps, and get ready to enjoy your new go-to rice recipe that’s truly worth sharing!
Print
Authentic 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
Description
This Authentic Mexican Rice recipe delivers perfectly toasted, fluffy rice infused with a rich, spiced tomato sauce and fresh cilantro. Combining simple ingredients like tomatoes, onions, garlic, and aromatic spices, this savory side dish is a staple in Mexican cuisine and pairs beautifully with beans, meats, or vegetables. The method involves toasting the rice on the stovetop before simmering it gently in a flavorful tomato broth, resulting in a fragrant and vibrant dish ideal for family meals or celebrations.
Ingredients
For the Tomato Sauce
- 1/4 onion (roughly chopped)
- 1 clove garlic (smashed)
- 1/4 red bell pepper (roughly chopped, optional)
- 2 large roma tomatoes (roughly chopped)
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 teaspoons roasted chicken better than bouillon
- 2 teaspoons tomato bouillon powder
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt (or sea salt, use half if using table salt)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
For the Rice
- 1/2 cup water (plus more as needed)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 and 1/2 cups long grain white rice
- 3–4 sprigs cilantro (left whole)
Instructions
- Make the tomato sauce: In a blender, combine the chopped onion, smashed garlic, chopped red bell pepper (optional), chopped roma tomatoes, roasted chicken better than bouillon, tomato bouillon powder, kosher salt, cumin, chili powder, and 1/2 cup water.
- Blend: Start the blender on low speed, gradually increase to high, and blend for 30-60 seconds until the mixture is smooth and free of chunks.
- Add water: Pour the blended tomato mixture into a large liquid measuring cup. Add additional water until the total liquid reaches 2 and 2/3 cups, discarding any excess if necessary to maintain the proper liquid-to-rice ratio. Set aside.
- Toast the rice: Heat a 3-quart saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil and let it shimmer. Add the dry white rice and stir continuously to coat the grains evenly with oil.
- Continue to toast: Keep stirring the rice for 4-5 minutes until the grains become golden and translucent and emit a popcorn-like aroma.
- Cool briefly: Remove the pan from the heat for about one minute while stirring to prevent splattering when adding liquid.
- Add tomato sauce mixture: Carefully pour in the 2 and 2/3 cups of tomato sauce mixture. Stir the rice and sauce together and return the pan to medium-high heat.
- Add cilantro: Place 3-4 whole sprigs of cilantro into the rice mixture to infuse flavor (optional).
- Bring to boil: Allow the mixture to come to a boil over medium-high heat. Stir once more, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer: Cover the saucepan with a well-fitted lid and cook on low heat for 25 minutes without lifting the lid.
- Remove from heat and remove cilantro: After 25 minutes, take the pot off the heat, remove the lid, and discard the cilantro sprigs or stir them in if preferred.
- Fluff rice: Using a fork, gently fluff the rice by pulling the wetter top layer towards the drier bottom around the edges without over-stirring to avoid mushiness. Replace the lid and let the rice rest for 10 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Final fluff: Remove the lid and fluff the rice again carefully. Taste and enjoy this flavorful, tender Mexican rice.
- Storage: Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. Sprinkle with water and cover before microwaving to reheat evenly.
- Freezing instructions: Cool the rice completely, then transfer to a ziplock freezer bag and seal tightly. Freeze for up to 6 months. Reheat from frozen by microwaving partially uncovered at 50% power for 1-2 minutes to loosen grains, then sprinkle water, cover, and continue cooking until hot.
Notes
- Cilantro is optional and can be omitted for those who dislike its flavor.
- Ensure the correct liquid-to-rice ratio (2 and 2/3 cups liquid to 1 and 1/2 cups rice) to achieve fluffy rice.
- Toasting the rice before cooking adds a nutty flavor and prevents sogginess.
- When reheating leftover rice, add water and cover to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
- Use kosher or sea salt for best flavor accuracy; reduce salt if using table salt.
- Vegetable oil can be substituted with another neutral oil if preferred.
