Homemade Mexican Rice

There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of perfectly cooked Mexican rice. Whether served alongside tacos, enchiladas, or enjoyed on its own, this vibrant dish is a staple in many households. Homemade Mexican rice is not only easy to make, but it also fills your kitchen with delightful aromas that will transport you straight to a bustling Mexican restaurant. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can whip up a batch that will impress your family and friends alike.

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This recipe for Homemade Mexican Rice is dependable for several reasons. Firstly, it uses simple, accessible ingredients that you can find at any grocery store. Secondly, the cooking method is straightforward and allows for flexibility, giving you the freedom to adjust flavors according to your taste. Lastly, the outcome is consistently delicious, with each grain of rice infused with rich flavors from the tomatoes, garlic, and spices. You’ll never want to buy pre-packaged rice again!

What You’ll Need

• 4 Roma tomatoes, scored and quartered (see note 1)
• 1 onion, peeled and quartered
• 1/3 cup olive oil or vegetable oil
• 2 cups long-grain white rice (see note 2)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth or water
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste or one cube Consomate tomato bouillon (see note 3)
• Salt to taste
• Minced fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish (see note 4)
• Lime wedges for serving

Equipment & Tools

• Large skillet: Ideal for even cooking and toasting the rice.
• Wooden spoon: For stirring and mixing your ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient portions.
• Sharp knife: For easily chopping the vegetables.

Homemade Mexican Rice Cooking Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Begin by scoring the Roma tomatoes with a small knife to allow them to break down easily while cooking. Quarter the tomatoes and place them in a blender or food processor. Add the quartered onion to the mix. Blend until you achieve a smooth consistency.

Step 2: Sauté the Rice

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the long-grain white rice. Sauté the rice for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until it becomes lightly golden. This step enhances the flavor and texture of the rice.

Step 3: Add the Aromatics

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Step 4: Incorporate the Tomato Mixture

Pour the blended tomato and onion mixture into the skillet with the rice and garlic. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and let them cook together for another 2-3 minutes. The vibrant color will start to deepen.

Step 5: Add the Liquid

Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and add the tomato paste or Consomate bouillon. Stir to dissolve the tomato paste, and season with salt to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 6: Simmer the Rice

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the rice simmer for about 20 minutes. Do not lift the lid while it cooks, as this will release the steam necessary for fluffy rice.

Step 7: Fluff and Serve

After 20 minutes, remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid. Finally, fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with minced cilantro or parsley. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an added zest.

If You’re Out Of…

• Roma tomatoes: Substitute with canned diced tomatoes for convenience.
• Long-grain white rice: Jasmine or basmati rice can be used as an alternative.
• Chicken broth: Vegetable broth or water will work perfectly in a pinch.
• Olive oil: Avocado oil or any neutral oil will suffice.

Cook’s Notes

• For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cumin or chili powder when sautéing the garlic.
• Feel free to add vegetables such as peas or bell peppers for a colorful twist.
• This recipe can easily be doubled or halved depending on your needs.
• For a vegan option, simply replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit any animal-based ingredients.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

Homemade Mexican Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of water to the rice and microwave until heated through. For longer storage, you can freeze the rice in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Make sure to label the bags with the date for your convenience!

Questions People Ask

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but the cooking time will increase. Brown rice typically requires about 40-45 minutes to cook. Make sure to adjust the liquid ratio accordingly, as brown rice absorbs more liquid than white rice.

What can I serve with Mexican rice?

Homemade Mexican Rice pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes such as tacos, burritos, grilled chicken, or black beans. It also makes a great base for a hearty salad.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth or water. Always check the labels on any store-bought ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary requirements.

Can I make this rice in a rice cooker?

Absolutely! You can easily adapt this recipe for a rice cooker. Simply follow the same steps for sautéing, then transfer everything to the rice cooker along with the broth and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions for white rice.

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have your step-by-step guide to creating Homemade Mexican Rice, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get started! This dish not only serves as a delightful accompaniment to your favorite meals but also stands on its own as a flavorful, wholesome option. As you experiment with the recipe, feel free to make it your own by adding spices or ingredients that resonate with your palate. Enjoy the warm, inviting flavors of this classic dish, and savor the comfort that comes from cooking at home. Happy cooking!