Easy Mexican Rice Recipe: Quick & Flavorful Dinner Idea

Mexican rice is a tasty and colorful side dish. It goes well with many meals. You can make it at home easily. This recipe is simple and uses common ingredients.

What Is Mexican Rice?

Mexican rice is cooked rice with tomato and spices. It has a nice red color. The rice is soft and full of flavor. It is a staple in Mexican food.

People sometimes call it Spanish rice. But real Spanish rice is a bit different. Mexican rice uses tomato sauce or fresh tomatoes for color and taste. It also has garlic, onion, and sometimes vegetables.

Ingredients Needed

Here is what you need to make easy Mexican rice:

• White rice: Use long grain rice for best results.
• Tomato sauce: Gives color and flavor.
• Chicken broth or water: To cook the rice.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and aroma.
• Garlic: For a nice savory touch.
• Carrot: Optional, for color and nutrition.
• Peas: Optional, adds texture and color.
• Oil: To toast the rice and cook the vegetables.
• Salt and chili powder: For taste and mild spice.

Step-by-Step Easy Mexican Rice Recipe

Step 1: Prepare The Ingredients

Wash the rice until the water is clear. This removes extra starch. Chop the onion and garlic finely. If using carrot and peas, chop carrot small.

Step 2: Toast The Rice

Heat oil in a pan on medium heat. Add the rice to the pan. Stir often and cook until the rice turns light golden brown. This step gives a nutty flavor. Be careful not to burn it.

Step 3: Cook The Vegetables

Add chopped onion and garlic to the rice. Stir and cook until the onion is soft. Add carrot now if you use it. Cook for 2 minutes.

Step 4: Add Tomato Sauce And Spices

Pour tomato sauce into the pan. Add chili powder and salt. Stir well to mix everything. Cook for 2 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 5: Add Broth And Cook Rice

Pour chicken broth or water into the pan. The liquid should cover the rice by about one inch. Stir once and bring to a boil. Then lower heat and cover the pan with a lid.

Step 6: Simmer Until Done

Let the rice cook on low heat for 15 to 20 minutes. Do not lift the lid while cooking. After time is up, check if rice is soft. If needed, cook a few minutes longer.

Step 7: Add Peas And Fluff Rice

Add peas in the last 5 minutes of cooking. When done, turn off heat and let rice rest for 5 minutes. Fluff rice with a fork before serving.

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Tips for Perfect Mexican Rice

• Use fresh tomato sauce or canned for best flavor.
• Rinse rice well to avoid sticky texture.
• Toast rice until golden, not brown or black.
• Use chicken broth for richer taste or water for lighter.
• Do not stir rice while cooking to keep grains separate.
• Cover the pan tightly to trap steam and cook rice evenly.
• Rest rice after cooking to let steam finish the cooking.

Why Make Mexican Rice at Home?

Mexican rice from scratch tastes better than store mixes. You control the ingredients and spices. It is fresh and healthy. Plus, it is cheaper and fun to make.

This rice works well with tacos, burritos, or grilled meats. You can add it to a lunch box or family dinner. It is colorful and inviting on any plate.

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Comparison Table: Mexican Rice vs Spanish Rice

Serving Suggestions

Mexican rice pairs well with many dishes. Here are some ideas:

• Serve with grilled chicken or steak.
• Use as a side for beans and salsa.
• Add to burritos or tacos for extra flavor.
• Mix with vegetables for a rice bowl.
• Top with fresh cilantro and lime juice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Ingredients Do I Need For Mexican Rice?

You need white rice, tomato sauce, chicken broth, garlic, onion, chili powder, and salt for Mexican rice. Optional ingredients include peas and carrots.

What Gives Mexican Rice Its Flavor?

Mexican rice gets its flavor from sautéed white rice, tomato sauce, garlic, onion, chicken broth, and spices like chili powder. These ingredients create a savory, slightly tangy taste. Cooking rice in broth enhances the rich, authentic flavor, making it a perfect side dish for Mexican meals.

What Is The 5 5 5 Rule For Rice?

The 5 5 5 rule for rice means cooking rice with 5 cups water, 5 minutes boiling, and 5 minutes resting. It ensures perfect texture and fluffiness.

What’s The Difference In Mexican Rice And Spanish Rice?

Mexican rice uses tomato sauce, garlic, and chicken broth for a savory flavor. Spanish rice features saffron, giving it a golden color and a sweet, aromatic taste. Spanish rice has a firmer texture and suits slow-cooked dishes better than Mexican rice.

Conclusion

Making Mexican rice at home is easy and fun. You only need a few simple ingredients. The process is quick and gives a tasty, colorful dish.

Try this recipe to enjoy authentic Mexican flavors. It will brighten your meals and impress your family. Once you try, you will want to make it again and again.