Go Back
+ servings
Mexican Rice Recipe
Print Recipe
5 from 8 votes

Mexican Rice Recipe

This Mexican rice recipe is easy to make, packed with flavor with toasted rice, tomato, chilies and spices, the perfect side dish for your favorite meals.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: rice
Servings: 4
Calories: 337kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 1-2 jalapeno peppers chopped (optional - use serrano for spicier)
  • 3 cloves garlic chopped
  • 2 medium tomatoes chopped (or use a 15-ounce can tomatoes, drained - I prefer fire-roasted tomatoes)
  • 1 teaspoon Mexican oregano
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1.5 cups long grain or medium grain rice rinsed
  • 2 cups chicken broth warmed
  • Chopped cilantro for serving

EXTRAS

  • 1/2 cup frozen corn thawed
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas thawed

Instructions

  • Add the chicken broth to a small pot and heat to warm it.
  • To a food processor or blender, add the tomatoes, onion, chili peppers, garlic, Mexican oregano, cumin, and salt and pepper to taste. Puree until smooth. Set aside.
  • Heat the oil in a large pan to medium heat and add the rice. Cook 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is lightly toasted and golden brown.
  • Stir in the pureed tomatoes-chili mixture and cook 2-3 minutes to let the flavors bloom.
  • Stir in the chicken broth and optional extras (peas, corn). Bring the rice to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to a simmer.
  • Cook, covered, for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice absorbs all of the liquid. Do not stir while cooking. If the rice gets too dry, add a few tablespoons of extra chicken broth or water.
  • Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes.
  • Fluff with a fork and garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve.

Video

Notes

Spice It Up. For a spicier version, use hotter chilies and add chili powder to your mix of seasonings. Also, hot sauce is a great addition.
Other Seasonings. Consider adding 1 teaspoon achiote powder (or ground achiote) for additional red color. Other popular spices are turmeric, cayenne, and other herbs.

Nutrition

Calories: 337kcal | Carbohydrates: 71g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 46mg | Potassium: 505mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 705IU | Vitamin C: 24mg | Calcium: 59mg | Iron: 2mg