Arroz Mexicano (Mexican Rice)

Name: Arroz Mexicano (Mexican Rice)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 tomatoes; 1/2 onion (divided); 2 garlic cloves (divided); 1 cup water (for sauce); 1 tbsp chicken bouillon (for sauce); 1/8 cup olive oil; 2 cups long grain white rice; 1 tbsp chicken bouillon (for rice); Pinch whole cumin; 1.5 cups water (for rice)

Published: August 24, 2025

by Saphira

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This dish is ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Authentic Flavor: Made from scratch with fresh ingredients, Arroz Mexicano offers a taste that beats any store-bought version.
Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with tacos, grilled meats, or serve it as part of a larger spread—it’s suitable for any occasion.
Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, making it easy to whip up anytime you crave a delicious side.
Family-Friendly: With its mild yet flavorful profile, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make Arroz Mexicano (Mexican Rice), you will need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

A large stock pot
A blender
A cutting board
A sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

Large stock pot: This allows for even cooking of the rice while providing enough space for stirring without spilling.
Blender: Essential for creating a smooth tomato sauce that forms the base of this dish.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for safely chopping vegetables.
Sharp knife: Ensures precise cuts for your ingredients, speeding up preparation time.

Ingredients

For the Tomato Sauce

2 tomatoes (quartered)
1/4 onion (quartered)
1 garlic clove
1 cup water
1 tbsp chicken bouillon

For the Rice

1/8 cup olive oil
2 cups long grain white rice
1/4 onion (finely diced)
1 garlic clove (finely minced)
1 tbsp chicken bouillon
Pinch whole cumin
1 1/2 cups water

How to Make Arroz Mexicano (Mexican Rice)

Step 1: Make the Tomato Sauce

To create a delicious tomato sauce that will infuse your rice with flavor:
1. Cook the tomatoes, onion, and garlic clove in 4 cups of water until the tomatoes are soft—this should take about 4-5 minutes.
2. Let everything cool down before proceeding.
3. In a blender, combine the cooked tomatoes, onion, garlic, 1 cup of water, and chicken bouillon.
4. Blend until smooth and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Rice

Now it’s time to transform your ingredients into fragrant Mexican rice:
1. Heat olive oil in a large stock pot over medium heat.
2. Add the long grain white rice, stirring constantly until it starts to toast—this should take about 5 minutes.
3. Four minutes later, add the finely diced onion. Continue stirring to avoid burning.
4. Look for a golden color in the rice before adding in the finely minced garlic, remaining chicken bouillon, pinch of whole cumin, water, and your prepared tomato sauce.
5. Stir everything together to combine well. Cover and cook on medium heat for 12 minutes.
6. Once done cooking, turn off the heat but let it rest covered for an additional 5 minutes.
7. After resting, uncover and mix well before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Arroz Mexicano (Mexican Rice) as a delightful side dish!

How to Serve Arroz Mexicano (Mexican Rice)

Arroz Mexicano is a versatile dish that can elevate any meal. Whether you serve it at a family gathering or a casual dinner, this Mexican rice pairs well with a variety of flavors.

With Grilled Meats

Chicken Fajitas: Juicy chicken strips sautéed with bell peppers and onions complement the fluffy rice beautifully.
Steak Tacos: Spicy steak tacos served alongside Arroz Mexicano create a satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor.

As Part of a Platter

Taco Bar: Set up a taco bar with tortillas, toppings, and Arroz Mexicano for a fun and interactive dining experience.
Burrito Bowl: Layer Arroz Mexicano in bowls with beans, cheese, and your choice of protein for a hearty dish.

With Fresh Salsas

Pico de Gallo: Serve fresh pico de gallo on the side to add a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the rice.
Guacamole: Creamy guacamole can enhance the texture and flavor profile of Arroz Mexicano.

How to Perfect Arroz Mexicano (Mexican Rice)

Perfecting Arroz Mexicano is all about technique. Follow these tips for consistently delicious results every time you make this dish.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and vegetables enhance the flavor significantly. Avoid canned tomatoes if possible.
Toast the Rice Properly: Toasting the rice before cooking adds depth to its flavor. Stir it continuously until it turns golden.
Control the Heat: Cooking on medium heat ensures even cooking without burning. Adjust as necessary while you cook.
Let It Rest: Allowing the rice to rest after cooking helps achieve fluffiness. Do not skip this step!

Best Side Dishes for Arroz Mexicano (Mexican Rice)

Arroz Mexicano pairs well with many side dishes, making it an ideal complement to various meals. Here are some excellent options to consider.

Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide protein and richness that balance the lightness of the rice.
Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn on the cob topped with cheese and spices adds sweetness that contrasts nicely.
Chiles Rellenos: Stuffed peppers filled with cheese or meat bring bold flavors that work well alongside Mexican rice.
Mexican Salad: A fresh salad made with lettuce, avocado, and lime dressing offers brightness to your plate.
Quesadillas: Cheese-filled tortillas that are crispy on the outside make for a delightful pairing with fluffy rice.
Sautéed Vegetables: Colorful sautéed veggies add nutrition and texture, enhancing both presentation and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Arroz Mexicano (Mexican rice), avoiding common pitfalls can help you achieve the perfect dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Using insufficient water: Not adding enough water can lead to dry rice. Always measure your water accurately for fluffy results.
Skipping toasting the rice: If you skip toasting the rice, it may become mushy. Toasting enhances flavor and texture, so don’t rush this step.
Ignoring cooking time: Cooking rice for too long can make it sticky and soft. Stick to the recommended 12 minutes for optimal texture.
Not letting it rest: Failing to let the rice rest after cooking can result in unevenly cooked grains. Allowing it to sit ensures even moisture distribution.
Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Using too little bouillon or spices can result in bland rice. Adjust seasonings according to your taste preference for a flavorful dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Arroz Mexicano (Mexican Rice) will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Arroz Mexicano (Mexican Rice)

Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Arroz Mexicano (Mexican Rice)

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place rice in a covered dish with a splash of water and heat until warmed through.
Microwave: Place rice in a microwave-safe bowl, add a small amount of water, cover, and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Stovetop: Add rice to a skillet with a splash of water. Heat over medium-low, stirring until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Arroz Mexicano (Mexican Rice):

How Do You Make Mexican Rice?

To make Mexican rice, you’ll need long grain white rice, tomatoes, onion, garlic, chicken bouillon, and spices. Follow the cooking instructions closely for best results.

What is the Best Rice for Arroz Mexicano?

Long grain white rice is ideal for Arroz Mexicano as it stays fluffy and separates well during cooking.

Can I Customize My Arroz Mexicano?

Yes! You can add vegetables like peas or bell peppers, or incorporate different spices according to your taste preferences.

How Can I Make It Spicier?

To spice up your Arroz Mexicano, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper while cooking.

Final Thoughts

Arroz Mexicano (Mexican Rice) is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any meal. Whether paired with tacos or enjoyed on its own, this dish offers endless customization options. Give it a try and make this comforting side dish your own!