Are you looking for a flavorful and aromatic addition to your meals? Look no further than Mexico’s national treasure: Mexican rice! This beloved staple has been a cornerstone of Latin American cuisine for centuries, and its popularity only continues to grow. With its perfect balance of spices, herbs, and textures, it’s no wonder that Mexican rice is a favorite among foodies and home cooks alike.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 deliciously spiced Mexican rice recipes that are sure to spice up your culinary repertoire. From classic dishes like Authentic Mexican Red Rice and Easy One-Pot Mexican Rice, to innovative creations like Cheesy Mexican Rice Casserole and Spicy Chipotle Mexican Rice, there’s something for everyone in this mouthwatering collection. So why wait? Dive into the world of flavorful Mexican rice and discover a whole new level of culinary excitement!
Authentic Mexican Red Rice
Authentic Mexican Red Rice Recipe
This classic recipe adds a pop of color and flavor to any Mexican dish with its vibrant red hue and slightly smoky taste. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious side dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan 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 rice, water, tomato paste, smoked paprika (if using), and salt.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Fluff with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Easy One-Pot Mexican Rice
Easy One-Pot Mexican Rice Recipe
Summary: This simple recipe yields a flavorful and aromatic one-pot dish perfect for accompanying your favorite Mexican-inspired meals. With minimal prep time and cooking effort, you’ll have a delicious side dish ready to go 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 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
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. Stir in the uncooked rice, frozen peas and carrots, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly.
5. Add the diced tomatoes and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
6. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cheesy Mexican Rice Casserole
A flavorful and easy-to-make casserole that combines the comfort of creamy cheese with the bold flavors of Mexico. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 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
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 cook until translucent.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Rice with Black Beans
This flavorful dish combines the savory taste of Mexican rice with the nutritious goodness of black beans, making it a perfect addition to any meal. With its rich aroma and vibrant colors, this recipe is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until water runs clear.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cumin; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add rice to the saucepan, stirring to coat with oil mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add water to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
6. Stir in black beans and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Mexican Rice
Elevate your mealtime with this simple and delicious slow cooker recipe that combines the comfort of rice with the bold flavors of Mexico. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine rice, water, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir to combine, then cover the slow cooker.
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in diced tomatoes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Vegetarian Mexican Rice Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with sautéed vegetables, creamy black beans, and savory Mexican rice, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small zucchini, diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: avocado slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced tomatoes for topping
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and zucchini; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cumin and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked black beans to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetable mixture.
5. Serve the rice bowl filled with the vegetable and black bean mixture. Top with your desired toppings, if using.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Rice Stuffed Peppers
Add a flavorful twist to traditional stuffed peppers with this Mexican-inspired recipe. This dish combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory flavors of Mexican rice and spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked Mexican rice (see note)
– 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Shredded cheddar cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef or turkey until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture, followed by Mexican rice.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes; remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Spicy Chipotle Mexican Rice
Elevate your Mexican dishes with this flavorful and spicy rice recipe, infused with the bold flavors of chipotle peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and combine with water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the chopped chipotle pepper, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and add to the skillet. Stir until well combined with the spice mixture.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Rice and Chicken Skillet
A flavorful one-pot dish that combines juicy chicken breast with sautéed onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, and aromatic Mexican rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked Mexican rice (see note)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add onion and bell peppers; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet; cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in cooked rice and diced tomatoes. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Return chicken to the skillet; stir to combine. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Lime Cilantro Mexican Rice
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your meal with this simple and delicious recipe. This Lime Cilantro Mexican Rice is perfect as a side dish or as a base for your favorite Mexican-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with oil and mix with onion.
5. Add the water, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Fluff with a fork and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Mexican Rice with Ground Beef
This classic recipe combines flavorful ground beef with aromatic Mexican rice, perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal. With its bold flavors and easy preparation, this dish is sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups water.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add garlic and ground beef, cooking until browned, breaking up meat with spoon as needed.
4. Stir in taco seasoning (or blend) and cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked rice and ground beef mixture; stir well to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Mexican Rice with Poblano
A flavorful and vibrant side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or as a filling for tacos. This recipe combines the creamy richness of cooked rice with the subtle heat of roasted poblano peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium poblano pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast the chopped poblano pepper for 20-25 minutes, or until the skin is blistered and charred.
2. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, roasted poblano pepper, cumin, and salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mexican Rice Soup
This hearty soup is a twist on traditional rice bowls, with the added warmth of chicken broth and spices. Perfect for a cozy meal or quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cooked chicken or beans for added protein
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until tender (5-7 minutes).
3. Add rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Rice Salad with Avocado
A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional Mexican rice, this salad combines the creaminess of avocado with the bold flavors of cumin, chili powder, and lime juice. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, diced avocado, red bell pepper, and chopped cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cumin, and chili powder.
3. Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Mexican Rice and Shrimp Stir-Fry
This flavorful dish combines succulent shrimp with sautéed onions, garlic, and bell peppers, all wrapped up in a savory Mexican-inspired rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in cumin and chili powder. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Serve shrimp mixture over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican Rice Pudding (Arroz con Leche)
This creamy rice pudding is a traditional Mexican dessert, perfect for warm weather or as a comforting treat any time of the year. With its sweet and nutty flavor profile, it’s a great way to end a meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 3 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Raisins or chopped pecans for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, milk, sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the pudding thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter.
5. Let cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with raisins or chopped pecans if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Rice with Chorizo
This recipe combines the rich flavors of chorizo sausage with traditional Mexican rice, creating a hearty and aromatic side dish perfect for accompanying your favorite Latin-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lb chorizo sausage, casings removed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the chorizo sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add it to the skillet. Stir until well combined with the chorizo mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Rice and Egg Breakfast Bowl
Start your day with a flavorful and filling breakfast bowl that combines the creamy richness of scrambled eggs with the savory spice of Mexican rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large eggs
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cooked rice and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. In a separate bowl, scramble the eggs.
6. Assemble the breakfast bowls by placing the Mexican rice mixture at the bottom, followed by the scrambled eggs.
7. Top with shredded cheese and chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 flavorful Mexican rice recipes! From classic dishes like Authentic Mexican Red Rice and Easy One-Pot Mexican Rice, to creative twists like Cheesy Mexican Rice Casserole and Vegetarian Mexican Rice Bowl, there’s something for every taste bud. Discover how to add a pop of flavor with Spicy Chipotle Mexican Rice or the bright zing of Lime Cilantro Mexican Rice. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food, a quick weeknight dinner, or a flavorful breakfast option, these recipes will transport your taste buds south of the border.
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