Growing up in south Texas, Mexican rice was on the table for most of our meals. In fact, my mom's rice was so popular among my extended family that she was constantly asked to prepare it for any get-together, from birthday parties to Easter Sunday to Thanksgiving. Yes, Thanksgiving. Mexican rice as aside to turkey is more common than you'd think in south Texas households!
My mom's Mexican rice recipe is more authentic, opting for fresh vegetables (onions, tomatoes, celery) instead of the Knorr tomato bouillon. So, I recognize that there are many variations and substitutions for Mexican rice. This is just one way to make this popular dish by using shelf-stable ingredients already in your pantry!
Why You'll Love This Mexican Rice Recipe Using Knorr Tomato Bouillon
- Quick and Easy - This may not be the freshest or most authentic Mexican rice recipe, but it is quick, easy and uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, such as Knorr granulated bouillon or cubes.
- Versatile - Serve this Mexican rice as a side with any protein, stir in vegetables, or add chicken to make this a full meal.
Recommended Tools For This Recipe
- Non-Stick Frying Pan with Lid - A tight-sealed lid is vital for making this Spanish rice recipe, as it'll trap the steam and prevent too much moisture from escaping, which can result in dry, hard rice.
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Mexican Rice Ingredients
- Long-Grain White Rice - an affordable staple you likely already have in your pantry!
- Cooking Oil - I prefer using extra virgin olive oil but have successfully used canola and vegetable oil to make Mexican rice in the past.
- Knorr Tomato Bouillon with Chicken Flavor- This tomato bouillon enhanced with onions and parsley will give your Mexican rice that vibrant orange color. (Note: If you prefer your recipe to be more fresh, this can be substituted with freshly blended tomatoes or canned tomato sauce.)
- Knorr Chicken Bouillon - Even though the Tomato Bouillon has chicken flavor, I still like to add some chicken bouillon to ensure it has that wonderful flavor.
- Garlic Powder - I typically sprinkle about a teaspoon of garlic powder, but again, this can be substituted with minced garlic for a stronger taste.
- BONUS: Add a handful of cilantro, celery, or peas and carrots for a healthier Mexican rice.
Tips for Making Perfect Mexican Rice Every Time
- Toast the rice until it's golden before adding water. Don't rush this step! Toasting the rice adds depth to the flavor.
- Try to avoid opening the lid while the rice simmers. Every time you peek, you release steam, which can result in unevenly cooked rice.
- Let the rice rest before fluffing. Once the water has evaporated and you've turned off the heat, let the rice sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
