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Authentic Mexican Rice Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 774 reviews

This Authentic Mexican Rice recipe delivers fluffy, flavorful rice infused with tomato sauce, garlic, and chili powder. Perfect as a side dish for any Mexican meal, this simple stovetop method creates a wonderfully aromatic and vibrant rice that complements a wide variety of dishes.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil or vegetable oil
  • 1 cup Long-grain white rice
  • 4–8 ounces Canned tomato sauce (Use at least 4 or up to 8 ounces)
  • 2 cups Water
  • 1 teaspoon Minced garlic (about 2 cloves)
  • 2 teaspoons Caldo de Tomate (tomato bouillon)
  • 1 teaspoon Chili powder

Instructions

  1. Heat Oil and Toast Rice: Heat oil in a 3-quart saute pan over medium heat. Add the rice and stir to combine. Cook, stirring frequently, for 3-5 minutes until the rice begins to turn a golden color, enhancing its nutty flavor.
  2. Add Seasonings: Stir in the chili powder, Caldo de Tomate (tomato bouillon), and minced garlic, ensuring all ingredients are well combined with the toasted rice to build layers of flavor.
  3. Add Liquids: Pour in the water and tomato sauce, stirring thoroughly to integrate the sauce evenly throughout the rice mixture.
  4. Simmer Rice: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid. Let it simmer gently for 20 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
  5. Rest Rice: Turn off the heat and allow the rice to rest, still covered, for 5-10 minutes. This step helps the rice firm up and fully develop its texture.
  6. Fluff and Serve: Using a fork, fluff the rice to separate the grains, then serve immediately as a delicious side dish.

Notes

  • Adjust the tomato sauce quantity between 4 to 8 ounces depending on how rich and moist you prefer the rice to be.
  • Using Caldo de Tomate provides authentic tomato and savory depth; if unavailable, substitute with vegetable or chicken bouillon, but flavor will differ.
  • Be sure to toast the rice until golden for the best nutty taste and texture.
  • Letting the rice rest after cooking prevents it from becoming mushy.

Keywords: Mexican rice, Authentic Mexican rice, tomato rice, easy side dish, Latin American rice recipe

Find it online: https://ricoloranz.com/authentic-mexican-rice-recipe/