Mexican Rice
Mexican Rice is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the earthiness of rice with the freshness of vegetables and spices. The roasted tomato adds depth, while optional peas and carrots bring a pop of color and sweetness. Perfect as a side or main dish for families and gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp. vegetable oil ⓘ
- 1 c. long or medium grain rice ⓘ
- 1 small onion, finely chopped ⓘ
- 1 large clove garlic, peeled and finely diced ⓘ
- 1 ripe, medium-small tomato, roasted or boiled, cored and peeled or 1/2 (15 oz.) can tomatoes, drained ⓘ
- 1 1/2 c. broth (preferably chicken) or water ⓘ
- salt (about 1/2 tsp. if using unsalted broth or water) ⓘ
- 1 c. fresh or defrosted frozen peas (optional) ⓘ
- 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped into 1/4-inch dice (optional) ⓘ
- several sprigs fresh cilantro for garnish ⓘ
Instructions
- Measure the oil into a 1 1/2 to 2-quart saucepan set over medium heat.
- Add the rice and onion and cook, stirring regularly, until both are lightly browned, 7 to 10 minutes.
- Mix in the garlic and cook for one minute longer.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider toasting the rice in the oil until golden before adding the onion. If you don’t have fresh tomatoes, canned tomatoes work well. You can also substitute brown rice for a healthier option, but adjust the cooking time as needed. For added color and nutrition, mix in bell peppers or corn.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mexican Rice as a side dish alongside grilled meats or tacos for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Pico De Gallo for a fresh contrast. For a vegetarian option, top with black beans and avocado. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out, then microwave in short intervals, stirring until heated through. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Rice contains roughly 614 calories, with 18g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (266% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (218% of the Daily Value), and iron (84% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1064mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this rice dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Mexican Rice in advance. Simply cool it completely after cooking, then store it in the refrigerator. This dish also freezes well, so you can make a larger batch and store it for quick meals. Just ensure to reheat thoroughly.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, vegetable broth is a great substitute for chicken broth in this recipe. Alternatively, you can use water if you don’t have broth on hand, although it may result in a milder flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to your Mexican Rice, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when cooking the onions. You can also serve it with a side of spicy Mexican Salsa to enhance the flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).