Mexican rice is a staple side dish, bringing bold flavors and a perfect balance of spice to your plate. This version is inspired by the fluffy, flavorful rice served in authentic Mexican restaurants cooked with tomato sauce, garlic, and cumin for that classic taste. The fresh cilantro adds a fragrant touch that enhances every bite.
Whether you’re serving it alongside tacos, grilled meats, or simply enjoying it on its own, this dish is incredibly easy to make at home. It’s budget friendly, kid approved, and perfect for meal prep. The best part? It tastes even better the next day! Try this recipe for your next Taco Tuesday and elevate your homemade Mexican feast.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 cups long-grain rice
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1/4 cup oil
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8 oz tomato sauce
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1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
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3 teaspoons salt
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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4 cups chicken broth
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1/2 teaspoon cumin
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1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Directions:
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Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
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Add the rice and cook until golden brown, stirring frequently.
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Stir in the chicken broth, tomato sauce, salt, garlic, cumin, and black pepper.
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Mix well, cover the pan with a lid, and reduce heat to medium-low.
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Simmer for 35-40 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed.
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Fluff the rice, stir in chopped cilantro, and serve warm.
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(Optional) Sprinkle with Cotija cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 197 kcal per serving | Servings: 10
Restaurant-Style Mexican Rice: A Flavorful and Authentic Side Dish
Mexican cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and rich traditions, and no meal is complete without a delicious side of Mexican rice. This simple yet flavorful dish, also known as arroz rojo (red rice), is a staple in Mexican households and restaurants alike. It’s a versatile side that pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses, from tacos and enchiladas to grilled meats and seafood.
Making restaurant-style Mexican rice at home is easier than you might think. With the right combination of spices, tomato sauce, and broth, you can achieve the same fluffy, flavorful texture that you find in your favorite Mexican restaurants. Whether you’re preparing a feast for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe will impress your guests and elevate your meal.
The History and Origins of Mexican Rice
Mexican rice, often referred to as Spanish rice in the United States, has roots that trace back to the colonial era when the Spanish introduced rice to Mexico. Rice itself was not native to the region, but once it arrived through trade routes, it quickly became a fundamental part of Mexican cuisine. Over time, Mexican cooks developed their own unique way of preparing rice by incorporating tomatoes, garlic, onions, and traditional spices, creating the flavorful dish we now recognize as Mexican rice.
Despite its name, Spanish rice is actually quite different from the rice dishes found in Spain. While Spanish cuisine features paella and saffron infused rice dishes, Mexican rice is known for its deep, rich tomato flavor and aromatic seasonings. The dish has evolved over centuries, with regional variations across Mexico that incorporate ingredients like peas, carrots, jalapeños, and even seafood.
Today, Mexican rice is a beloved staple in Latin American cooking, often served alongside refried beans, grilled meats, and traditional dishes like chiles rellenos and carne asada.
Why This Recipe Works
One of the reasons this restaurant-style Mexican rice recipe stands out is because it captures the same authentic taste and texture found in the best Mexican eateries. Here’s what makes it special:
1. The Perfect Texture
A common mistake when making Mexican rice at home is ending up with mushy or sticky rice. The key to achieving the perfect light, fluffy texture is to toast the rice in oil before adding liquid. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the rice and prevents it from clumping together as it cooks.
2. Deep, Rich Flavor
Instead of using plain water, this recipe calls for chicken broth, which infuses the rice with savory depth. The addition of tomato sauce, garlic, and cumin provides the signature flavor that makes Mexican rice so irresistible.
3. Balanced Seasoning
This dish is perfectly seasoned with salt, garlic, and cumin, giving it a slightly smoky and earthy flavor. Some variations include chili powder or smoked paprika for an extra layer of warmth.
4. Fresh Herbs for Extra Brightness
To bring everything together, freshly chopped cilantro is added at the end, providing a bright, herbaceous contrast to the rich tomato base. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with fresh parsley or green onions.
Pairing Suggestions: What to Serve with Mexican Rice
Mexican rice is incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of main dishes. Here are some delicious pairing ideas:
1. Classic Mexican Dishes
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Tacos – Whether it’s chicken, beef, or vegetarian tacos, Mexican rice is the perfect complement.
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Enchiladas – A side of fluffy rice pairs wonderfully with saucy, cheesy enchiladas.
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Fajitas – Serve alongside sizzling fajitas for a complete Mexican-inspired meal.
2. Grilled Meats and Seafood
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Carne Asada – The smoky, grilled flavors of steak or chicken balance beautifully with the tomato-infused rice.
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Grilled Shrimp – The light, citrusy flavors of shrimp go well with the savory notes of Mexican rice.
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Pollo Asado – A marinated, grilled chicken dish that’s commonly served with rice and beans.
3. Vegetarian and Vegan Pairings
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Black Beans and Avocado – A simple yet satisfying meal when paired with Mexican rice.
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Stuffed Bell Peppers – Fill bell peppers with rice, beans, and vegetables for a hearty vegetarian dish.
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Mushroom Fajitas – The umami-rich flavors of mushrooms work beautifully with the savory rice.
Tips for Making the Best Mexican Rice
To ensure your Mexican rice turns out perfectly every time, follow these expert tips:
Use Long-Grain Rice – Long-grain rice, such as Basmati or Jasmine rice, works best because it stays fluffy and separate after cooking. Avoid short-grain rice, which tends to be stickier.
Toast the Rice First – Sautéing the rice in oil until golden brown is crucial for developing the best flavor and texture. It prevents the rice from becoming soggy.
Use Tomato Sauce, Not Just Tomatoes – While some recipes use diced tomatoes, tomato sauce provides a richer, smoother consistency and ensures even coating.
Let It Rest – Once the rice is fully cooked, allow it to sit covered for a few minutes. This allows the steam to redistribute, making it easier to fluff with a fork.
Customize the Spice Level – If you like heat, consider adding diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a few drops of hot sauce for extra spice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping the Toasting Step – This is a crucial step that enhances the flavor. Un-toasted rice lacks the signature nuttiness.
Not Using Enough Liquid – If the rice isn’t fully cooked, it may be because not enough broth was used. Always follow the correct rice-to-liquid ratio.
Stirring Too Much – Unlike risotto, Mexican rice should not be stirred frequently once the liquid is added. Stirring releases starch, which can make the rice sticky.
Cooking on High Heat – Simmering the rice on low heat ensures even cooking and prevents burning at the bottom of the pan.
Conclusion
Restaurant style Mexican rice is more than just a side dish it’s a flavor packed, essential component of any authentic Mexican meal. Its perfectly seasoned, fluffy texture makes it an excellent accompaniment to a wide range of dishes, from tacos and enchiladas to grilled meats and seafood.
By following this simple recipe, you can bring the taste of an authentic Mexican restaurant into your own kitchen. Whether you’re preparing a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this Mexican rice recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
So next time you’re planning a Mexican-inspired meal, don’t settle for plain white rice elevate your plate with homemade, flavorful Mexican rice!