Joanna Gaines Mexican Rice

Joanna Gaines’ Mexican Rice is one of the best and easiest Mexican rice recipes you’ll ever try. This easy Mexican rice is made with long-grain white rice, vegetable oil, ground cumin, white onion, garlic, chicken broth, kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and tomato sauce. Seasonings like cumin, salt, and pepper add that authentic touch. 

All you need to do to make this restaurant-style Mexican rice is to sauté the rice and seasonings, add the liquid, and let it simmer, then let it stand covered before fluffing it with a fork. Serve this spicy Mexican Rice with enchiladas or refried beans for a healthy meal.

What Rice To Use For Mexican Rice 

Long-grain white rice is the rice used for Mexican rice this is because its individual grains remain separate and fluffy after cooking, providing the ideal texture for this dish.

Mexican Rice Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
• 1½ cups Long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
• 1 White onion, finely chopped
• 1 Garlic clove, minced
• 2-4 cups Chicken broth or water, as needed
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
• One 8-ounce can of Tomato sauce
• 2 cups Fresh cilantro or parsley, minced (for garnish)

How To Make Mexican Rice With White Rice 

1. In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add 1½ cups of rinsed long-grain white rice. Stir until the rice turns light brown, about 10 minutes.
2. Stir in 1 teaspoon of ground cumin and cook for 30 seconds. Add 1 finely chopped white onion and 1 minced garlic clove. Cook until they soften, about 5 minutes.
3. In a 4-cup measuring cup, mix one 8-ounce can of tomato sauce with enough chicken broth to make 3-4 cups in total.
4. Pour the liquid mixture into the rice. Add 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Stir once.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
6. After simmering, remove the saucepan from the heat but keep it covered. Let it stand for 10 minutes.
7. Use a large fork to fluff the rice. Sprinkle 2 cups of minced fresh cilantro or parsley on top for garnish.

How Long Do You Cook Mexican Rice 

You should cook rice in a skillet for about 10 minutes until it turns light brown, and then let it simmer covered for 20 minutes.

How To Make Mexican Rice Fluffy 

To make Mexican rice fluffy, let it stand covered for an additional 10 minutes after simmering, then fluff it with a large fork.

How Long Does Mexican Rice Last In The Fridge 

Properly stored cooked Mexican Rice can last up to 3 days; simply keep it in a covered container.

Can You Freeze Mexican Rice 

Yes, Mexican Rice freezes well for about 1-2 months, simply store it in a freezing bag. 

To thaw frozen Mexican Rice, place it in the fridge overnight.

How To Reheat Mexican Rice 

The best way to reheat Mexican Rice is in the skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a few splashes of water to prevent it from drying out. Cook until it’s heated through, usually about 5 minutes.

What To Eat With Mexican Rice

The best side dishes to eat with Mexican rice are enchiladas, refried beans, guacamole, pico de gallo, grilled vegetables, sour cream, and corn tortillas.

What To Do With Leftover Mexican Rice 

Leftover Mexican Rice can be made into:

1. Fried rice with vegetables and protein.
2. Rice bowls topped with beans, cheese, and salsa.
3. Stuffed bell peppers or tomatoes.
4. A base for a quick chicken or shrimp stir-fry.
5. Rice fritters by mixing with egg and frying.

Mexican Rice Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 Serving

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 400mg

Try More Recipes:

• Joanna Gaines Cacio E Pepe
• Joanna Gaines Chili Recipe
• Joanna Gaines Meatloaf Recipe
• Joanna Gaines Potato Soup
• Aroma 8 Cup Rice Cooker Instructions