How to Make Authentic Mexican Rice: A Simple and Flavorful Recipe

Mexican rice is a staple side dish in many Mexican households, beloved for its fragrant aroma, savory taste, and versatility. This dish pairs perfectly with a wide variety of main courses, from tacos and enchiladas to grilled meats and seafood. The key to making authentic Mexican rice lies in toasting the rice before cooking it, a technique that helps create a golden, fluffy texture and infuses the rice with a rich flavor.

In this recipe, we’ll walk you through how to make this classic Mexican rice dish with a few simple ingredients. From the essential spices to the method of cooking, you’ll learn how to achieve the perfect balance of flavor and texture every time. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a festive gathering, this Mexican rice will quickly become a crowd favorite!

Ingredients for Mexican Rice

To make this flavorful Mexican rice, you’ll need a few basic ingredients, many of which are staples in Mexican cooking. The combination of cumin, garlic, and tomato sauce gives the rice its distinct, comforting flavor.

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups long grain rice (uncooked)
1 tsp ground cumin
1 1/2 tsp garlic powder

1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
4 cups water (or 32 oz chicken stock for added flavor)
1/2 medium onion, sliced

1 tbsp lard or vegetable cooking oil (lard adds a traditional flavor but vegetable oil works well too)
1 tbsp salt (adjust to taste)
Cilantro (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Authentic Mexican Rice

The process of making Mexican rice is easy and straightforward, but the key to success is in the technique. By toasting the rice first and adding the seasonings at the right time, you ensure that each grain of rice is infused with flavor. Here’s how to make it step by step.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients. In Mexican cooking, a combination of key ingredients like cumin, garlic, onion, and tomatoes can transform a simple dish into something extraordinary. Having everything prepared ahead of time will help things move along smoothly.

Prepare Your Ingredients: Slice the onion and have the rest of the ingredients ready to go.

Step 2: Cook the Onion in Oil or Lard

In a large frying pan, heat your oil or lard on high heat. Lard adds a distinct flavor to the dish, but vegetable oil can be used as a substitute if you prefer a lighter option.

Cook the Onion: Once the oil is hot, add the sliced onion to the pan. Cook the onion for about a minute until it starts to soften and become fragrant.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

This is the step that sets Mexican rice apart. Toasting the rice helps develop a nutty flavor and gives the rice a golden color.

Toast the Rice: Add the uncooked long-grain rice to the pan with the onion. Stir the rice frequently to ensure it toasts evenly. Continue cooking until the rice turns golden brown. This step should take about 3-5 minutes and will fill your kitchen with a delicious aroma.

Step 4: Prepare the Liquid Mixture

While the rice is toasting, mix together the water, tomato sauce, garlic powder, and ground cumin. This mixture is the base for the flavor of the rice. Some people use chicken stock for an added depth of flavor, but this recipe uses water and tomato sauce, which creates a simple yet flavorful result.

Prepare the Water Mixture: In a separate measuring cup or bowl, combine the 4 cups of water (or chicken stock), the garlic powder, ground cumin, and 6 oz of tomato sauce. You can use the entire can of tomato sauce if you prefer a stronger tomato flavor, but we’ve found that 6 oz is the perfect amount for a balanced taste.

Step 5: Add the Liquid Mixture to the Toasted Rice

Once the rice is nicely toasted, it’s time to add the flavorful liquid mixture.

Add the Liquid: Pour the prepared water mixture into the pan with the toasted rice and onions. Stir quickly to ensure the rice is evenly coated.

Step 6: Cover and Simmer

After adding the liquid, cover the pan with a lid immediately to capture all the flavors. This step is essential to keep the steam inside, ensuring the rice cooks evenly and absorbs all the seasonings.

Cover and Let It Cook: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the rice simmer for 10 minutes without removing the lid. This will allow the rice to absorb the liquid and begin cooking.

Step 7: Add Salt and Optional Cilantro

After 10 minutes, uncover the pan and check the rice. Now, it’s time to add the salt. Be sure to sprinkle the salt evenly around the pan, but avoid stirring the rice at this point to keep it fluffy. You can also add a few sprigs of cilantro for added flavor and aroma. The cilantro will infuse the rice with a fresh, herbal note as it cooks.

Add Salt and Cilantro: Sprinkle the tablespoon of salt over the rice and add cilantro, if desired. Cover the pan again.

Step 8: Let the Rice Simmer to Perfection

Let the rice simmer on low heat for another 15-20 minutes, checking occasionally to make sure it doesn’t dry out. If the rice looks too dry, you can add a bit more water. The rice should be tender but not mushy.

Simmer Until Tender: After 25-30 minutes of cooking, remove the lid and check the rice. The grains should be fluffy and tender, with no liquid remaining in the pan.

Tips for Perfect Mexican Rice

Making perfect Mexican rice takes a bit of practice, but these tips will help you achieve great results every time.

Toast the Rice Thoroughly: The toasting step is crucial to developing the rice’s flavor. Make sure the rice is golden brown before adding the liquid, but avoid burning it.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and cumin can elevate the flavor of your rice, though using the powdered versions is fine for convenience. If you want an extra boost, try grinding your own cumin seeds for a fresher taste.
Don’t Stir Once the Liquid is Added: After adding the liquid to the rice, resist the urge to stir. Stirring too much can make the rice sticky and clumpy. Let it cook undisturbed to keep the texture fluffy.
Adjust the Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the amount of cumin, garlic powder, or tomato sauce according to your taste. Some people like their rice spicier, so you can also add chili powder or diced green chilies for a kick.
Add Extra Veggies: If you like, you can stir in some frozen mixed vegetables or corn for added color and flavor. This will give the rice a more hearty, colorful look.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require more cooking time. You’ll also need to adjust the amount of water to accommodate the longer cooking process.

Can I make this recipe with chicken stock instead of water?

Yes, using chicken stock will add a richer, deeper flavor to the rice. Many people prefer this variation for extra flavor, especially if they plan to serve the rice with chicken dishes.

How do I store leftover Mexican rice?

Store any leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water and heat it in the microwave or on the stove until hot.

Can I freeze Mexican rice?

Yes, you can freeze Mexican rice. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, microwave it with a splash of water, or heat it on the stove.

Why is my Mexican rice mushy?

If your rice turns out mushy, it could be due to adding too much liquid or stirring the rice too much while it’s cooking. Try reducing the liquid slightly and letting it cook undisturbed for better results.

Conclusion

With its rich, savory flavor and fluffy texture, authentic Mexican rice is a versatile and beloved dish that complements nearly any Mexican meal. By following the simple steps and tips in this recipe, you’ll be able to create the perfect batch of rice that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or serving it at a fiesta, this Mexican rice will undoubtedly become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!