Homemade Mexican Rice Recipe

If you’ve ever wished you could capture the vibrant flavors and cozy aroma of your favorite Mexican restaurant right in your own kitchen, look no further than this Homemade Mexican Rice. With perfectly tender grains kissed by tomato, a gentle touch of cumin, and a hint of garlic, this classic side feels like something magical every time you make it. Whether you serve it next to enchiladas, pile it under saucy beans, or sneak forkfuls straight from the pot (you’ll know why!), Homemade Mexican Rice is a dish you’ll want to revisit time and time again.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Homemade Mexican Rice recipe shines because of its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, each one playing a unique role in crafting the soul-warming flavor and that signature red-gold color. Don’t skip any—even the smallest addition makes a big impact in the finished dish!

• Long-grain white rice: The star of the show, long-grain rice cooks up fluffy and prevents clumping, which is essential for that restaurant-style texture.
• Vegetable oil: Gives the rice its classic golden color and keeps the grains separate while adding a subtle richness.
• Finely chopped onion: Adds a savory foundation and melts beautifully into the rice for extra depth.
• Garlic (minced): Brings just the right amount of aromatic, garlicky punch—don’t be shy!
• Tomato sauce: Delivers color and that unmistakable earthy-sweet flavor that sets Homemade Mexican Rice apart.
• Chicken broth: Infuses the rice with savory flavor and ensures each bite is perfectly seasoned. Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option!
• Cumin: Gives a warm, earthy note that is key for authentic-tasting Mexican rice.
• Salt: Enhances all the other flavors—taste before serving and adjust if you like.
• Chili powder: Adds just a gentle kick and a whisper of warm color.
• Frozen peas and carrots (optional): For pops of color and texture—these are totally classic, but it’s your call!

How to Make Homemade Mexican Rice

Step 1: Toast the Rice

Pour the vegetable oil into a medium saucepan and heat it over medium. Once it’s shimmering, add the long-grain rice. Stir frequently, letting every grain toast until it’s a beautiful light golden color and releases a slightly nutty aroma. This step is the secret to fluffy, never-mushy Homemade Mexican Rice!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Sprinkle in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Gently stir for another one to two minutes—this quick sauté coaxes out rich, savory flavors, building the foundation for your rice and filling your kitchen with the happiest smell ever.

Step 3: Add Tomato Sauce and Seasonings

Pour in the tomato sauce, along with the chicken broth, cumin, salt, and chili powder. Give everything a thorough mix to incorporate those flavors and that signature red hue. This is where Homemade Mexican Rice gets its iconic look and taste.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Raise the heat just until everything starts bubbling, then immediately turn it down to low, cover the pan tightly, and let the rice simmer. After about 18 to 20 minutes, the rice will have absorbed all the liquid and is irresistibly tender.

Step 5: Add Veggies (Optional)

If you love a pop of sweetness and color, gently stir in the peas and carrots during the last five minutes of cooking. They’ll cook through without going mushy and make the whole dish feel extra festive.

Step 6: Rest, Fluff, and Serve

Take the pan off the heat, but keep the lid on for another five minutes. Finally, fluff your Homemade Mexican Rice with a fork to let steam escape and the grains separate—you’re ready to serve!

How to Serve Homemade Mexican Rice

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro or a delicate scatter of sliced green onions brings a lovely freshness to every plate of Homemade Mexican Rice. For a tangy lift, a squeeze of lime juice is wonderful too! Don’t be afraid to add your favorite finishing touch—avocado, jalapeño slices, or even a crumble of queso fresco make each serving special.

Side Dishes

This rice absolutely shines alongside classic Mexican entrees—think enchiladas, tacos, or sizzling fajitas. It also plays nicely with beans (refried or black), grilled chicken, or even just a simple fried egg for a knockout brunch. It’s the kind of side that elevates everything on the table!

Creative Ways to Present

Try spooning Homemade Mexican Rice into individual ramekins for neat little portions, or pack it into a cup and invert onto the plate for restaurant-worthy mounds. Toss leftovers into burrito bowls, or stuff bell peppers for an easy, flavorful main. The options are endless—let your creativity lead the way!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled to room temperature, store any extra Homemade Mexican Rice in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for about four days, making it a meal-prep hero for quick lunches or speedy sides throughout the week.

Freezing

Homemade Mexican Rice freezes surprisingly well! Spread it on a baking sheet to cool quickly, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. Label and freeze for up to three months. To use, thaw overnight in the fridge or gently reheat directly from frozen with a splash of broth or water.

Reheating

Warm leftover rice in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave. Add a little broth or water to revive the texture, cover, and heat until steamy. Fluff again with a fork, and your Homemade Mexican Rice is ready to enjoy, just like the first time!

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Absolutely! Just keep in mind brown rice needs more cooking time and extra liquid. Plan to simmer for closer to 40–45 minutes and add a bit more broth as needed. The result will be just as flavorful!

How do I prevent my rice from getting mushy?

The key is toasting the rice thoroughly at the start and keeping the lid on tightly during simmering. Also, avoid stirring while it cooks—this keeps the grains fluffy and separate.

Is Homemade Mexican Rice spicy?

With just a bit of chili powder, it’s generally mild. If you like heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne or toss in some diced jalapeños with the onions.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian-friendly version that doesn’t sacrifice any flavor.

What type Side Dish

Any smooth, unseasoned tomato sauce works. If you only have tomato paste, thin it with a little water. For a smoky twist, try a fire-roasted tomato sauce—it adds a gorgeous depth!

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Homemade Mexican Rice is a beloved staple—it’s easy, unfussy, and guaranteed to bring a bit of joy to any meal. I hope you have as much fun making (and eating!) this dish as I do. Try it with your favorites or experiment with your own twists, and don’t forget to share the love with family and friends!

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