Authentic Mexican Rice Recipe

Name: Authentic Mexican Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 Cup Long Grain Rice (rinsed well); 1 tablespoon Oil; 2 Roma Tomatoes (cut in half); ¼ Medium White Onion; 2 Garlic Cloves (whole); ¼ cup Chicken or vegetable broth (or Chicken Bouillon and water); ¼ tsp Salt

Jack Ellison

Update : January 12, 2026

Bowl of authentic Mexican rice served with traditional garnishes

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

why make this recipe

Authentic Mexican Rice is a delightful, flavorful side dish that complements many Mexican meals. Its vibrant color and rich taste make it a favorite for family dinners, parties, and gatherings. This recipe is simple to make and a great way to introduce the savory flavors of Mexican cuisine into your home.

how to make Authentic Mexican Rice

Ingredients:

1 Cup Long Grain Rice (rinsed well and set aside to drain)
1 tablespoon Oil
2 Roma Tomatoes (cut in half)
¼ Medium White Onion
2 Garlic Cloves (whole)
¼ cup Chicken or vegetable broth (or use Chicken Bouillon and water)
¼ tsp Salt

Directions:

Start by rinsing the rice in a fine mesh strainer under cold water for about 30 seconds. This helps remove excess starch. Set the rice aside to drain well.
In a blender, combine the tomatoes, onion, garlic, chicken bouillon, and water. Blend until you get a smooth puree. You want about 1.5 cups of liquid for every cup of rice, so add more water or broth if needed.
In a pot with a lid, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the drained rice and stir it continuously to toast the rice until it turns lightly brown.
Carefully pour in the blended sauce (it may splatter) and stir well. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Once the mixture begins to simmer, place the lid on the pot and let it simmer for 12 minutes.
After 12 minutes, remove the pot from the heat but keep the lid on for an additional 10 minutes. This helps the rice finish cooking.
Finally, remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving.

how to serve Authentic Mexican Rice

This rice is best served warm as a side dish. It pairs wonderfully with tacos, enchiladas, and any grilled meats. You can also garnish it with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for extra flavor.

how to store Authentic Mexican Rice

To store leftover rice, allow it to cool completely. Then, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It should stay fresh for up to 4 days. You can easily reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little water to bring back its moisture.

tips to make Authentic Mexican Rice

Make sure to rinse the rice thoroughly to avoid clumping.
Toasting the rice adds a nice flavor, so don’t skip this step.
Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. You can add a bay leaf or some cumin for extra flavor.

variation

For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add veggies like peas, bell peppers, or corn to the rice for added nutrients and color.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer cooking time. Follow the cooking instructions on the package.

Can I freeze the rice?

Yes, you can freeze cooked rice. Make sure it’s cooled, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 6 months.

How can I make this rice spicier?

Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the blender when making the sauce for a nice kick.