Skip to content
recipesvibrant

Adriana's Mexican Rice

5.0 · 13 reviewsRecipe card by Dienia B.Editorial by recipesvibrant · Updated October 15, 2026
MexicanLow ProteinVeganLow CholesterolHealthy< 30 Mins
Adriana's Mexican Rice

Total time

30 min

Servings

2

Calories

727.7

Category

Rice

Adriana's Mexican Rice is a fast, flavor-packed side dish that masters the art of the golden-brown grain. This authentic, tomato-infused recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners and home cooks looking for a reliable, plant-based staple.

Ingredients

Makes 2 servings

  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 1 tomatoes
  • 1 1/2 rice
  • 3 water

Method

  1. Blend in the blender the garlic and tomato till puréed.

  2. Heat oil in skillet.

  3. Add rice; toast until light brown, being careful not to burn (rice will be puffy).

  4. Add water and puréed mixture.

  5. Cover and turn down to simmer.

  6. Cook for 15 minutes or till all water is absorbed.

Cook's notes

  • Wait until the rice turns a deep, sandy gold; the toasting process is crucial for preventing the grains from sticking together later.
  • Use a high-speed blender to ensure the tomato and garlic are completely liquefied, creating a smooth poaching liquid that coats every grain.
  • Avoid the urge to stir the rice once the liquid is added; lifting the lid releases steam and disrupts the cooking process, potentially leading to mushy rice.
  • Let the rice rest covered for 5 minutes after the burner is turned off to ensure the grains are perfectly fluffy before serving.

Easy swaps

  • Instead of Water, use Vegetable brothEnhances the savory depth of the tomato base without needing extra seasonings.
  • Instead of Long-grain white rice, use Jasmine riceRequires slightly less water and provides a fragrant, softer texture.
  • Instead of Tomato, use Canned tomato sauceUse 1/4 cup of plain tomato sauce if fresh tomatoes are out of season or underripe.
  • Instead of Vegetable oil, use Avocado oilIts high smoke point is ideal for toasting the rice without burning the garlic.

Frequently asked

Why did my rice turn out mushy?

This usually happens if the rice was stirred while simmering or if there was too much liquid. Ensure your water-to-rice ratio is exact and keep the lid tightly sealed.

Can I use brown rice for this recipe?

Brown rice requires significantly more liquid and longer cooking times. Stick to white long-grain rice for this specific 30-minute technique.

How do I know when the rice is perfectly toasted?

The rice should turn a light golden-brown color and start to look slightly opaque or 'puffy' in the hot oil. Watch closely as it transitions quickly from toasted to burnt.

Does this recipe require extra salt?

The recipe relies on the natural flavor of the garlic and tomato, but you can add a pinch of salt to the blender mixture to taste if desired.

You might also like

More Rice →