What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Homemade Mexican Rice recipe is simple, flavorful, and perfect for any meal. You’ll love how easy it is to make, even on busy days.
- It’s packed with authentic Mexican flavors that everyone will enjoy.
- The ingredients are basic and easy to find at your local store.
- You can customize it to suit your taste, adding veggies or spices for extra flair.
Recipe
Mexican rice, also known as “arroz rojo,” is a flavorful and comforting side dish that complements a variety of Mexican-inspired meals. This easy-to-make recipe uses simple ingredients to create a vibrant and delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
- ½ cup frozen peas (optional)
Instructions:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
- Heat oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the rice and cook, stirring frequently, until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the rice. Cook for 2 more minutes, stirring constantly.
- Stir in the chicken broth, tomato sauce, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- If using peas, stir them in after cooking and let them heat through for 2 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Notes:
- For extra flavor, use homemade chicken broth or add a bouillon cube to the water.
- Adjust the chili powder to suit your spice preference.
Equipment:
- Large skillet or pot with a lid
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Cuisine:
Mexican
Serving:
Serves 4-6
Nutrition
Mexican rice is a flavorful dish packed with essential nutrients. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade Mexican rice with classic dishes like tacos, enchiladas, or carne asada for a hearty meal. For something lighter, I’ll add fresh sides like avocado slices, pico de gallo, or a crisp green salad. Mixing and matching these options makes every meal feel complete and delicious.
Classic Mexican Dishes
When you’re craving something hearty and flavorful to pair with your homemade Mexican rice, you can’t go wrong with classic dishes like enchiladas, tacos, or chiles rellenos. These staples bring bold flavors that complement the rice perfectly. I love how enchiladas, smothered in rich sauce, make every bite satisfying, while tacos offer endless filling options—grilled chicken, juicy carne asada, or seasoned beans. Chiles rellenos, stuffed with cheese and coated in egg batter, add a crispy, savory touch. Each dish feels like a celebration of Mexican cuisine, turning a simple meal into something special. They’re classics for a reason!
Fresh Side Options
Since Mexican rice already packs a punch of flavor, it’s fun to balance it with fresh, light sides that brighten up the meal. I love serving it with a crisp cucumber and jicama salad, tossed in lime and chili powder—it’s crunchy, tangy, and just spicy enough. A simple avocado and tomato salad with cilantro is another favorite, creamy and invigorating. If I’m craving something heartier, charred street corn with cotija cheese adds smoky richness. And don’t forget warm tortillas or buttery refried beans—they round out the meal perfectly. Mix and match these to keep every bite exciting!
