Name: Mexican Restaurant-Style Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 27 min
Total time: 37 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 cups extra long-grain rice; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup tomato sauce or taco sauce (see notes); 4 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper

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Introduction

This Mexican restaurant-style rice is perfectly fluffy with a rich, savory tomato flavor. It’s an ideal side dish for tacos, enchiladas, or any Mexican-inspired meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can recreate this classic favorite at home.

A round white bowl filled with one layer of fluffy cooked rice mixed evenly with a light orange or reddish sauce that gives the rice a soft, slightly shiny texture. On top, near one edge, there is a small fresh green cilantro leaf adding a pop of color. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface with a small corner of a green patterned cloth visible at the bottom right. The photo is taken close up, showing the grainy texture of the rice clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/4 cup olive oil
2 cups extra long-grain rice
5 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup tomato sauce or taco sauce
4 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a shallow 3-quart saucepan or medium skillet with a tight-fitting lid over medium heat. Add the rice and gently sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is slightly browned and fragrant.
Step 2: Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for 2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Step 3: Stir in the tomato sauce or taco sauce, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Mix well and bring the liquid to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Cover with the lid, reduce the heat to low or medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer, and cook for 20 minutes. Stir the rice occasionally with a fork to prevent sticking but avoid overworking it. Do not stir or lift the lid during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Step 5: Remove the pan from heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.
Add finely chopped onions or bell peppers when sautéing the rice for extra flavor and color.
If you like a bit of heat, mix in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of chili powder with the spices.
Using a tight-fitting lid is essential to trap the steam and cook the rice evenly.

Storage

Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Avoid reheating multiple times to preserve texture and flavor.

How to Serve

A close-up image of a bowl filled with fluffy, orange-colored rice where each grain is well separated and lightly coated, topped with a small bunch of fresh green cilantro leaves placed in the center. The white bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a green cloth featuring white circular patterns underneath. The rice has a soft texture and appears steamy and warm. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular long-grain rice instead of extra long-grain?

Yes, you can substitute regular long-grain rice, but the texture may be slightly different. Extra long-grain rice tends to be fluffier and less sticky.

What if I don’t have tomato sauce or taco sauce?

You can use canned crushed tomatoes or a mix of tomato paste and water as a substitute, adjusting the quantity to maintain the liquid balance.