Mexican Rice vs. Spanish Rice: What’s the Difference?

Before diving into the recipe, let’s address a common question: What’s the difference between Mexican rice and Spanish rice? While the terms are often used interchangeably, they are not entirely the same. Both Mexican and Spanish rice include aromatics like onion and garlic, and typically use a tomato base, but there are distinctions.

Mexican rice usually boasts a softer and more tender texture, seasoned with cumin or chili powder for a distinct flavor profile. Conversely, Spanish rice tends to be firmer, frequently flavored with saffron, imparting a golden hue and a slightly different taste.

Essential Ingredients for Authentic Mexican Rice

• Long-grain white rice: This is the cornerstone for genuinely authentic Mexican rice. It cooks up light, fluffy, and separate, preventing clumping. I advise against substituting with jasmine rice, even though it’s technically long grain; it’s a tad too sticky and starchy, altering the desired texture.
• Neutral Oil: Opt for a neutral oil like vegetable, canola, or avocado oil for toasting the rice. Olive oil, while versatile, may impart a flavor not typically associated with traditional Mexican rice.
• Garlic Powder + Ground Cumin: These spices are the magic behind achieving that authentic Mexican restaurant taste. They infuse the rice with warmth and depth, enhancing its overall flavor profile.
• Onion: I prefer using a small diced yellow onion for its mild, sweet flavor. White onion can also be used, especially if it’s what you have readily available, but it will impart a slightly sharper bite.
• Chicken Stock: This liquid acts as the cooking medium for the rice, adding delicious savory flavor. Chicken broth can also be used as a substitute if that’s what you have. In a pinch, water will suffice, but consider adding 1 teaspoon of chicken bouillon per cup of water to amplify the flavor.
• Tomato Sauce: Look for a plain tomato sauce without added herbs or seasonings. The goal is to introduce a clean tomato flavor that complements the other ingredients without overpowering them.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Perfect Mexican Rice

Follow these simple steps to create authentic Mexican rice that rivals your favorite restaurant!

1. 

   Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

2. 

   Toast the rice. Once the oil is hot, add the rice, garlic powder, cumin, onion, and a generous pinch of salt. Stir frequently and cook for about 5 minutes, until the rice smells nutty and appears lightly golden.

3. 

   Add the liquid. Stir in the tomato sauce and chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a boil, then give it one final stir.

4. 

   Cover and simmer. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, and cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid. Let the rice cook undisturbed for 13 to 15 minutes. No peeking! Keeping the lid on is essential for trapping steam and cooking the rice evenly.

5. 

   Fluff and serve. Once the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, remove it from the heat and fluff it gently with a fork.

Expert Tips for the Best Mexican Rice

Elevate your Mexican rice game with these tried-and-true tips!

• Toast the rice first: While it might be tempting to skip this step, toasting the rice in hot oil is key to achieving that signature nutty flavor and delightfully fluffy texture. It only takes a few minutes, but it imparts a remarkable depth of flavor to the finished dish.
• Customize with veggies: Keep it simple with just diced onion, or feel free to add small diced carrots or peas for added color and nutrition. Stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking to ensure they remain tender yet slightly firm.
• Using brown rice? You can! Just increase the amount of broth or stock by ½ cup, and anticipate a longer simmer time—around 35–40 minutes. Check the rice periodically to ensure there’s enough liquid. If the liquid is mostly absorbed but the rice is not yet tender, add a splash more broth or water (about ¼ cup at a time), cover, and continue simmering until the rice reaches the desired tenderness.
• Use a tight-fitting lid: Steam is essential for cooking rice properly. A tight lid keeps the steam trapped inside, facilitating even cooking without drying out the rice.
• Try the towel trick: For extra-fluffy rice, try the towel trick! Before covering your pot, wrap the lid with a clean kitchen towel, securing it so the edges won’t hang down near the burner. The towel allows the rice to steam adequately while absorbing excess moisture, preventing soggy or mushy rice. The result? Light, fluffy, perfectly separated grains every time.

Need extra help with rice basics? Stay tuned for a comprehensive guide featuring troubleshooting tips for perfectly cooked rice! (I’ll link it here once it’s live!)

Storing and Reheating Your Mexican Rice

Ensure your leftover Mexican rice stays fresh and delicious!

Let any leftover rice cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To revive its texture, reheat gently in the microwave with a splash of water or chicken broth.

You can also freeze Mexican rice for longer storage! Simply portion it into freezer bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.

Serving Suggestions: Pairings for Mexican Rice

My family loves Mexican food, and this versatile rice makes the perfect side dish for almost any Mexican-inspired meal. Here are some of our favorite ways to serve it:

• As a base for high-protein ground beef taco bowls.
• Tucked into a warm flour tortilla with refried beans, shredded rotisserie chicken, lettuce, cheese, and salsa verde for a flavorful burrito.
• Topped with Instant Pot carnitas, plus a dollop of sour cream and guacamole, for a hearty rice bowl.
• Alongside taco zucchini boats, taco salad cups, or rotisserie chicken enchiladas for a satisfying family-friendly dinner.

Looking for more inspiration? Don’t miss my favorite Mexican recipes for easy appetizers, desserts, and more!