When it comes to international cuisine, few dishes evoke the warm, vibrant spirit of Mexico like a steaming hot bowl of flavorful rice. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a hearty main course, Mexican rice is a versatile and delicious option that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With its rich blend of spices, herbs, and bold flavors, this beloved staple has earned its place at the center of many a festive table.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Mexico, exploring 18 mouthwatering rice recipes that showcase the country’s incredible diversity and creativity. From classic comfort foods to innovative twists and modern takes, these flavorful Mexican rice dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings and inspire your cooking. So grab your apron and let’s get started!
Authentic Mexican Red Rice
This classic Mexican dish is a staple at any fiesta or family gathering. With its vibrant red color and rich, smoky flavor, it’s the perfect accompaniment to your favorite tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add rice, water, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
5. Stir in tomato paste and chopped tomatoes (or crushed canned tomatoes). Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Mexican Rice with Poblano Peppers
This vibrant and flavorful dish combines the warmth of poblanos with the freshness of green rice, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. The smoky peppers add depth to the creamy rice, while the cilantro adds a bright pop of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 large poblano pepper, roasted and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the rice and stir to coat with the oil and mix with the onion mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the water, chopped cilantro, and roasted poblano pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Fluff with a fork and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Mexican Rice Casserole
A flavorful and satisfying casserole that combines the comfort of rice with the bold flavors of Mexico, perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the cumin, then add the cooked rice, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and shredded cheese. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with crushed tortilla chips.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Mexican Rice with Black Beans
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot dish that combines the comfort of rice with the richness of black beans, all in a single pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cumin, then add the rice, diced tomatoes, water, and black beans.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Spicy Chipotle Mexican Rice
This flavorful rice dish combines the smoky heat of chipotle peppers with the bold flavors of Mexico, making it a perfect side for your next fiesta or taco night.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with oil and mix with the onion mixture.
5. Add the chipotle pepper, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
6. Add the water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Mexican Rice Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the comfort of Mexican rice with the sweetness of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked Mexican rice (with onions, garlic, and spices)
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey, browned and drained
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, ground beef or turkey, diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
7. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Easy Restaurant-Style Mexican Rice
Looking for a flavorful and authentic Mexican rice dish? This simple recipe yields a deliciously aromatic side that’s sure to please your family and friends. With just a few basic ingredients and some easy steps, you’ll be enjoying a restaurant-quality Mexican rice in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cumin powder and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add rice to the pan, stirring constantly, until coated with oil mixture (about 1-2 minutes).
5. Gradually add water to the pan, bringing to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
7. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and season with salt, pepper, and chopped cilantro (if using).
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes total.
Mexican Rice with Corn and Peas
A flavorful and colorful side dish that combines the sweetness of corn and peas with the warmth of Mexican spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with onion. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add water, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is cooked.
6. Stir in corn kernels and peas during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
7. Turn off heat and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cilantro Lime Mexican Rice
Add a burst of fresh flavor to your Mexican dishes with this simple and delicious Cilantro Lime Mexican Rice recipe. With its vibrant green color and tangy lime zest, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the rice is lightly toasted.
6. Add the water and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed.
8. Stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Mexican Rice and Chicken Skillet
This hearty one-pot dish combines flavorful chicken, savory rice, and a blend of spices to create a satisfying meal for any occasion. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add cumin, chili powder, and paprika to the skillet; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
5. Return chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Vegetarian Mexican Rice Bake
A flavorful and satisfying vegetarian dish that combines the bold flavors of Mexico with the comfort of a warm casserole.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (vegetarian)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, black beans, corn kernels, red bell pepper, onion, and garlic.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with shredded cheese and chopped cilantro.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Rice Soup with Avocado
This hearty soup combines creamy avocado with flavorful Mexican rice and vegetables, making it a perfect comfort food for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 ripe avocados, sliced
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add bell pepper and cook until tender.
3. Stir in cooked rice, chicken broth, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes.
6. Serve hot, topped with sliced avocado and garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Fried Rice with Shrimp
Add a twist to traditional fried rice by incorporating the bold flavors of Mexico and succulent shrimp. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup cooked shrimp
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lime, cut into wedges (optional)
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add mixed vegetables, cumin, and chili powder; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add cooked shrimp; stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Stir in cooked rice; break up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until rice is heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with lime wedges and cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Slow Cooker Mexican Rice
This recipe yields a flavorful and aromatic Mexican-style rice dish cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. Perfect for a crowd or as a side dish, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Add rice, water, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. When cooked, fluff with a fork to separate grains.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 2-5 hours
Mexican Rice Salad with Lime Dressing
A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional rice salad, this Mexican-inspired dish is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as cherry tomatoes, cucumber, carrots, and bell peppers)
– 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, mixed vegetables, and black beans.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top and season with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time: 5 minutes, refrigeration time: 30 minutes)
Mexican Rice and Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers
Elevate your meal with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the simplicity of Mexican rice with the sweetness of bell peppers. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked Mexican rice (see below for recipe)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mexican Rice Recipe:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook Mexican rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with cooked rice, ground beef mixture, and shredded cheese.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mexican Rice Pudding (Arroz con Leche)
This creamy dessert is a popular treat in Mexico, typically served warm or at room temperature. With the comforting flavors of cooked rice, sweetened condensed milk, and spices, this pudding is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice (preferably leftover)
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt, to taste
– Raisins or chopped nuts, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cooked rice, whole milk, and sweetened condensed milk.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the pudding has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to taste.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Let cool to room temperature before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican Rice with Chorizo and Tomatoes
This flavorful rice dish combines the spicy kick of chorizo sausage with sweet caramelized tomatoes, all wrapped up in a savory Mexican-inspired package. Perfect as a side or main course for your next fiesta!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb Mexican chorizo sausage, sliced
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chorizo sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Remove the chorizo from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the tomatoes are caramelized.
6. Add the cooked chorizo back into the skillet and stir to combine with the tomato mixture.
7. Add the uncooked rice to the skillet, stirring to coat the rice with the tomato-chorizo mixture.
8. Add the water to the skillet and bring to a boil.
9. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Looking for delicious and authentic Mexican rice recipes? Look no further! This collection features 18 mouth-watering recipes that are perfect for any occasion. From classic dishes like Authentic Mexican Red Rice to innovative creations like Spicy Chipotle Mexican Rice, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for cheesy, meaty, or veggie-packed options, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Try making a One-Pot Mexican Rice with Black Beans for a quick and easy dinner, or go all out with a Cheesy Mexican Rice Casserole for a show-stopping main course.
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