Mexican Rice Recipe

Introduction

Mexican Rice is a flavorful and easy side dish that complements any Mexican-inspired meal. Made with simple ingredients like rice, salsa, and spices, it’s a perfect way to add color and zest to your dinner table.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long grain white rice
• 2 cups low sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup jarred tomato salsa
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (reduce to 1/4 teaspoon for milder flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium skillet, stir together the rice, broth, salsa, garlic powder, cumin, salt, chili powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
2. Step 2: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until about half of the liquid is absorbed.
3. Step 3: Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low, and simmer until the rice is tender, about 8-10 more minutes, stirring occasionally.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, try adding a diced jalapeño or a handful of fresh cilantro before serving.
• You can substitute the salsa with fresh diced tomatoes and a splash of lime juice for a fresher taste.
• If you prefer a smokier flavor, use chipotle salsa or add a pinch of smoked paprika.

Storage

Store leftover Mexican Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, sprinkle a little water over the rice and warm it in a covered skillet or microwave until heated through.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly and check for tenderness before finishing.

Is this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Use vegetable broth to keep the dish vegetarian or vegan. Confirm that your salsa does not contain any animal products.

Mexican Rice Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 57 reviews

This flavorful Mexican Rice recipe combines long grain white rice with savory spices and zesty tomato salsa, cooked in broth to create a deliciously tender and aromatic side dish perfect for any Mexican-inspired meal.

• Author: Lena
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Rice and Liquid

• 1 cup long grain white rice
• 2 cups low sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup jarred tomato salsa

Spices

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (reduce to 1/4 teaspoon for milder flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium skillet, stir together the rice, broth, salsa, garlic powder, cumin, salt, chili powder, onion powder, and black pepper until evenly mixed.
2. Simmer to Absorb Liquid: Place the skillet over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Then reduce the heat to medium and continue to simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until about half of the liquid has been absorbed.
3. Cover and Cook Until Tender: Cover the skillet, reduce heat to medium-low, and let the rice cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed.

Notes

• Use low sodium broth to control saltiness, but adjust seasoning to taste.
• For a milder dish, reduce the chili powder to 1/4 teaspoon as suggested.
• Try using vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
• Let the rice rest covered off heat for a few minutes before serving for best texture.

Keywords: Mexican rice, side dish, easy rice recipe, Mexican cuisine, tomato salsa rice