Authentic Mexican Rice Recipe

Discover the taste of home with this authentic Mexican rice recipe, a beloved tradition passed down through generations. This vibrant and flavorful side dish is surprisingly easy to make and will transport your taste buds straight to Mexico. Learn the secrets to perfectly cooked, fluffy rice bursting with rich tomato flavor.

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Calories 325.9 kcal
Protein 9g
Rating 4.3 (25 Reviews)
Authentic Mexican Rice

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Authentic Mexican Rice

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • Vegetable Oil
  • Tomatoes
  • Onion
  • Garlic Cloves
  • Chicken Bouillon Cube
  • 2 teaspoons salt (or to taste)
  • Mixed Vegetables
  • 1 3/4 cups water

How to Make Authentic Mexican Rice

  1. Rinse 1 cup of long-grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large saucepan or skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add the drained rice and fry until lightly browned, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
  4. While the rice is frying, combine 1 medium chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon oregano, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper in a blender. Blend until smooth.
  5. Once the rice is lightly browned, drain off any excess oil.
  6. Add the blended onion-garlic mixture and 1 (28-ounce) can of crushed tomatoes to the rice. Fry for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
  7. Add 1 3/4 cups of water and stir to break up any clumps of rice.
  8. Add 2 teaspoons of salt (or to taste). Remember, it should taste almost too salty at this stage.
  9. Drain a 15-ounce can of mixed vegetables and add them to the saucepan.
  10. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
  11. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  12. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed. Do not lift the lid during this time.
  13. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving. Enjoy your delicious Authentic Mexican Rice!

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

31 g

Sugar

4g

Fat

6g

Carbs

17g