Fiesta Corn Rice

Welcome to your new favorite side dish! This vibrant and incredibly flavorful Mexican Rice with Corn, also known as Arroz con Elote, is a simple yet essential addition to any Mexican-inspired meal. Far from just a simple rice dish, it boasts a rich profile of warm spices, fragrant aromatics, and the delightful sweetness of corn, making every bite a truly mouth-watering experience. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or preparing a casual weeknight meal, this recipe promises to deliver authentic taste and impressive visual appeal with minimal effort. Its fluffy texture and beautiful colors will elevate your dining table, making it an instant family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Mexican Corn Rice

This Mexican Corn Rice isn’t just a side dish; it’s a culinary experience designed to delight your senses and simplify your cooking. Here are several compelling reasons why it will quickly become a cherished recipe in your kitchen:

• Explosive Flavor Profile: The harmonious blend of perfectly cooked rice, sautéed garlic and onions, and a medley of warm, aromatic spices creates an irresistible flavor that truly excites the palate. The touch of sweetness from the corn beautifully balances the savory spices, making each mouthful a delectable journey.
• Effortless Ingredient Sourcing: Forget the stress of specialty store trips! All the ingredients required for this recipe are readily available at any standard grocery store. This convenience ensures that you can whip up this delicious side dish whenever the craving strikes, without any hassle.
• Budget-Friendly and Satisfying: Rice is a staple that’s not only incredibly filling but also very economical. This recipe leverages affordable ingredients to create a hearty and satisfying dish that helps you keep your grocery budget in check while still serving a meal that feels indulgent.
• Quick and Straightforward Preparation: With clear, concise instructions, even novice cooks can achieve perfect results. The steps are designed to be intuitive and efficient, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
• Versatile Pairing Potential: This Mexican Corn Rice is a chameleon in the kitchen, complementing a wide array of main courses. From tacos and burritos to grilled chicken or fish, its vibrant flavors enhance almost any dish, making it a go-to side for countless meals.
• A Feast for the Eyes: The bright golden hue of the rice, punctuated by the yellow kernels of corn and flecks of green cilantro, makes this dish visually appealing. It adds a festive touch to your table, promising a delightful meal before the first bite.

In essence, this Arroz Con Elote offers the perfect balance of simplicity, flavor, and practicality, ensuring it’s a dish your entire family will love and request again and again.

Essential Ingredients for Mexican Corn Rice

Crafting the perfect Mexican Rice with Corn starts with selecting fresh, quality ingredients. Below is an overview of what you’ll need to create this delicious and vibrant side dish. For precise measurements and detailed instructions, please refer to the complete recipe card available at the bottom of this page.

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

Understanding each ingredient’s role can help you achieve the best results and even inspire creative substitutions.

• Long-Grain White Rice: The foundation of our dish. Long-grain white rice, such as Jasmine or Basmati, is ideal for its ability to cook up fluffy and separate, preventing a mushy texture. Its delicate flavor also allows the robust spices to shine through.
• Oil: A neutral-flavored oil like canola oil, vegetable oil, or light olive oil is recommended. These oils have a high smoke point, which is perfect for sautéing and toasting the rice without imparting unwanted flavors.
• Onion: Yellow or white onions are best for this recipe. When sautéed, they become sweet and translucent, providing an aromatic base that forms the core flavor of the rice. Dicing them finely ensures they meld seamlessly into the dish.
• Chicken Bouillon: This ingredient is key to achieving that savory, deeply satisfying Mexican rice flavor. You can use either bouillon cubes, dissolved in the boiling water, or granulated chicken bouillon powder. For a vegetarian version, simply substitute with vegetable bouillon.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a foundational layer of savory garlic flavor without the sharpness of fresh garlic. It blends smoothly into the spice mixture, ensuring even distribution.
• Taco Seasoning: A convenient way to infuse a complex blend of spices quickly. Feel free to use your favorite store-bought packet or a homemade blend. Ensure it’s fresh for maximum flavor impact.
• Cumin: This essential spice brings a distinctive earthy, warm, and slightly smoky flavor that is characteristic of Mexican cuisine. Don’t skip it, as it’s crucial for the authentic taste.
• Roma Tomatoes: Also known as plum tomatoes, Romas are preferred for this recipe due to their firm flesh, lower water content, and fewer seeds. This makes them ideal for creating a concentrated, flavorful tomato base without making the rice watery.
• Hot Boiling Water: Crucial for ensuring the rice cooks evenly and quickly. Adding hot water prevents the rice from seizing up and helps maintain a consistent cooking temperature throughout the process.
• Corn: Adds a delightful burst of sweetness and vibrant color. Both frozen corn kernels (thawed) or canned corn (thoroughly drained) work wonderfully. Fresh corn cut off the cob is also an excellent option if in season.
• Salt: A fundamental seasoning that enhances and balances all the other flavors in the dish. Adjust to taste, remembering that chicken bouillon also contributes to the saltiness.
• Garnishes (Optional): Fresh cilantro, finely chopped, adds a burst of freshness and a touch of color. Sliced jalapeño provides an optional kick of heat and a vibrant green visual.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Mexican Corn Rice

Creating this flavorful Mexican Corn Rice is straightforward with these easy-to-follow steps. While this section provides an overview, detailed instructions for each stage are available in the printable recipe card below.

1. Prepare the Flavor Base: In a mini food processor or a small blender, combine the diced Roma tomatoes, chicken bouillon, garlic powder, taco seasoning, cumin, and salt. Pulse the ingredients until you achieve a smooth, vibrant sauce. This mixture is the heart of your Mexican rice, providing depth and authentic flavor.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the oil in a large nonstick pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and fragrant. This typically takes about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to let the onion brown excessively, as you want its sweet, delicate flavor to shine.
3. Toast the Rice: Add the long-grain white rice to the pan with the sautéed onions. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, for approximately 2-3 minutes. This toasting step is crucial as it helps develop a nutty flavor in the rice and prevents it from clumping, ensuring each grain cooks separately and results in a fluffy texture. The rice should turn a light golden color.
4. Incorporate the Tomato Paste: Reduce the heat to medium. Pour the blended tomato and spice mixture from the food processor over the toasted rice. Stir continuously for about one minute. This step allows the spices to bloom and meld with the rice, deepening their flavors. Watch carefully to ensure the rice mixture doesn’t stick to the bottom or burn.
5. Add Corn and Water: Stir in the corn kernels. Then, carefully pour in the hot boiling water. Give everything a good stir to ensure all ingredients are well combined and the rice is evenly submerged in the liquid.
6. Garnish (Optional): If you’re using fresh jalapeño and chopped cilantro, sprinkle them on top of the rice mixture at this stage. The jalapeño will infuse a subtle heat, and the cilantro will add a fresh aroma as the rice cooks.
7. Simmer and Cook: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan tightly with a lid, and allow the rice to cook undisturbed for 20 minutes. It’s important to resist the urge to lift the lid during this time, as steam is vital for proper rice cooking.
8. Rest and Fluff: Once the 20 minutes are up, remove the pan from the heat. Keep the lid on and let the rice rest for an additional 5 minutes. This resting period allows the steam to redistribute, resulting in perfectly fluffy grains. After resting, remove the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
9. Serve: Dish out your delicious Mexican Corn Rice. For an extra touch of freshness and color, garnish with more freshly chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful side dish!

Recommended Equipment

Having the right tools can make preparing this Mexican Corn Rice even easier and more enjoyable. Here are the essential pieces of equipment you’ll need:

• Food Processor or Blender: Crucial for blending the tomato and spice mixture into a smooth paste. A mini food processor is perfect for this task, but a standard blender will work just as well.
• Large Pot or Skillet with a Tight-Fitting Lid: A good quality nonstick pan or a heavy-bottomed pot is essential for even cooking and preventing the rice from sticking. The lid is vital for trapping steam, which cooks the rice to perfection. Ensure it fits snugly to prevent steam from escaping.

Expert Tips for Success

Achieving perfectly fluffy and flavorful Mexican Corn Rice is simple with a few expert tips:

• Blender vs. Food Processor: While a food processor is convenient for the tomato paste, a regular blender works perfectly. If using a blender, you might need to add a tiny splash of water (no more than a tablespoon) to help it blend smoothly, especially if your tomatoes are very firm.
• Perfectly Sautéed Onions: When sautéing the onions, aim for translucency, not browning or burning. Overcooked onions can impart a bitter flavor. Cook them until they are soft and fragrant, which usually takes only a few minutes.
• Toast the Rice Thoroughly: The toasting step is critical for developing flavor and ensuring separate, fluffy grains. Stir the rice constantly while it toasts for 2-3 minutes until it turns a light golden color. This prevents uneven browning and helps each grain absorb flavor more effectively.
• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: After the rice has finished cooking, resist the urge to immediately uncover and serve it. Allowing it to rest, covered, for an additional 5 minutes off the heat is essential. This allows the steam to redistribute, resulting in a perfectly fluffy and tender texture.
• Adjusting Spice Levels: The jalapeño is entirely optional. If your family prefers milder flavors, simply omit it. For those who enjoy a spicier kick, you can add a whole jalapeño (remove seeds for less heat) or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to the tomato mixture.
• Choosing the Right Pan: A heavy-bottomed nonstick pan is highly recommended. It distributes heat evenly, preventing the bottom from burning while the top remains undercooked.
• Hot Water is Key: Always add hot or boiling water to the rice. Adding cold water can shock the rice, slowing down the cooking process and potentially leading to a gummier texture.
• Avoid Peeking: Once the lid is on and the rice is simmering, do not lift the lid. Each time you peek, you release valuable steam that is essential for cooking the rice properly. Trust the process and the cooking time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are answers to some common questions about making Mexican Rice with Corn:

Storage and Reheating

Proper storage and reheating ensure your Mexican Corn Rice remains delicious for future enjoyment.

• Storage in the Refrigerator: Allow any leftover rice to cool completely to room temperature before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days. Using glass containers is recommended, as they prevent staining and keep the rice tasting fresh.
• Freezing for Longer Preservation: Mexican rice freezes beautifully. Once cooled, place the rice in a freezer-safe airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Squeeze out any excess air from bags to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze in individual portion sizes for easy thawing.
• Reheating Instructions:
  • Microwave: For a quick reheat, place a portion of rice in a microwave-safe bowl. Add a tablespoon or two of water or broth and cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel. Reheat on 50% power for 1-2 minutes, then stir and continue heating at full power in 30-second intervals until warmed through. The added liquid helps restore moisture.
  • Stovetop: For larger quantities or a more even reheat, transfer the rice to a skillet or pot over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth (about 1-2 tablespoons per cup of rice) and cover. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the rice is heated thoroughly, approximately 5-7 minutes.

  Ensure rice is heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

Make-Ahead Instructions

While this Mexican Corn Rice is always best enjoyed fresh off the stove, its robust flavors make it an excellent candidate for making ahead, especially if you’re planning a party or a busy week. You can prepare this dish up to 24 hours in advance. The flavors tend to meld even more beautifully overnight, offering a deeper taste profile. Simply follow the storage instructions mentioned above and reheat gently when you’re ready to serve. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep or entertaining, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your meal without compromising on flavor or quality.

What to Serve with Mexican Corn Rice

This versatile Mexican Corn Rice is the perfect complement to a wide range of dishes, especially those with a Mexican flair. Its balanced flavors and fluffy texture make it an ideal side that enhances your main course without overpowering it. Here are some fantastic pairings:

• Tacos and Burritos: Serve alongside these Beef and Potato Tacos or delicious Baja Shrimp Tacos for a complete and satisfying meal. It also pairs wonderfully with classic chicken or vegetarian tacos.
• Enchiladas and Fajitas: The rice is excellent for soaking up the rich sauces of enchiladas or complementing the sizzling vegetables and meats of fajitas.
• Grilled Meats: Pair it with grilled chicken, steak, or pork chops for a hearty and flavorful dinner. The fresh notes of the rice cut through the richness of the meat.
• Seafood: Beyond shrimp tacos, this rice is a delightful accompaniment to baked fish, pan-seared scallops, or other seafood dishes.
• Soups and Stews: A scoop of this rice can add substance and flavor to a bowl of tortilla soup, black bean soup, or a hearty chili.
• Bowls: Use it as a base for vibrant grain bowls topped with your favorite proteins, fresh vegetables, avocado, and a squeeze of lime.

Delicious Variations to Try

This Mexican Corn Rice recipe is incredibly versatile and can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to get creative with these delicious variations:

• Amp Up the Spice: For those who love a fiery kick, incorporate additional heat by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a quarter teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the food processor mixture. You can also dice and sauté an extra jalapeño or serrano pepper with the onions at the beginning.
• Add Beans for Extra Protein and Fiber: Drained and thoroughly rinsed black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans make an excellent addition to this rice dish. Stir them in along with the corn kernels for added texture, flavor, and nutritional value.
• Turn it into a Complete Meal: Transform this flavorful side dish into a hearty main course by stirring in your favorite cooked protein. Shredded rotisserie chicken, grilled shrimp, pan-seared steak strips, or even crumbled seasoned tofu are all fantastic options. Add them during the last 5 minutes of cooking or resting time to ensure they are warmed through.
• Cheesy Mexican Rice: For a decadent twist, stir in about 1/2 cup of shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese right after the rice finishes cooking and resting. Cover the pot for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt into a gooey, delicious consistency.
• Lime and Cilantro Boost: For an extra burst of freshness, stir in the juice of half a lime and an additional tablespoon of fresh cilantro right before serving. This brightens all the flavors and adds a zesty finish.
• Smoky Paprika Addition: A teaspoon of smoked paprika added to the food processor mixture can deepen the smoky undertones of the dish, complementing the cumin beautifully.

More Mexican-Inspired Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed this Mexican Corn Rice, you’ll surely love these other delightful recipes that bring the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine to your table:

• This Rice Cooker Mexican Rice offers another wonderfully simple and hands-off method to achieve fluffy and flavorful Mexican rice, perfect for busy days.
• No Tomato Guacamole is a fantastic, creamy dip that would add a rich and savory counterpoint if served alongside or even on top of this rice.
• For a fun and delicious appetizer or light lunch, try these Mexican Chicken Pinwheels. They’re easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
• Planning a celebration? Explore the BEST Mexican Party Dishes for ideas ranging from irresistible tacos and casseroles to refreshing mocktails and festive decorations, ensuring an unforgettable gathering.
• If you’re a rice lover, this quick Lebanese Rice recipe is a fuss-free staple that requires no soaking and is beloved by families for its simplicity and comforting taste.
• For a wholesome and satisfying vegetarian option, the Mushroom and Rice Bake offers a fluffy texture and earthy flavor, perfect as a meatless lunch or a delightful side with your preferred protein.

Mexican Rice with Corn

A fluffy and flavorful rice side dish with perfect vibrant colors. Adding corn gives this Mexican rice a pop of color and sweetness, perfect for your tacos, burritos or enchiladas.

5 from 1 vote

Course: Side Dish | Cuisine: Mexican/American | Diet: Halal

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Resting time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 5 Servings

Calories: 296 kcal | Author: Amira

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups long grain white rice
• 3 tablespoons oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 Tablespoon chicken bouillon
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• 2 Roma tomatoes, diced
• 2 cups hot boiling water
• ¾ cup corn kernels
• ¼ teaspoon Salt or to taste

Optional:

• 2 Tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)
• 1 Jalapeno

Instructions

1. Add diced tomatoes, chicken bouillon, garlic powder, taco seasoning, cumin, and salt to a mini food processor and pulse until smooth.
2. In a non-stick pan over medium-high heat, add oil and sauté onion until fragrant.
3. Add rice and continue to cook, stirring constantly until rice turns to a light golden color, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Reduce heat to medium, empty the contents of the food processor over the rice, and keep stirring for about a minute. Watch out so the rice mixture does not burn.
5. Add in corn kernels then pour in boiling water, stir everything to combine.
6. Add jalapeño pepper on top along with chopped cilantro, if using.
7. Turn heat down to low, cover, and let it cook for 20 minutes.
8. Remove from heat and fluff the rice with a fork. Cover the pot again and let it rest for another 5 minutes.
9. Serve garnished with more chopped cilantro.

Nutrition

Calories: 296kcal | Carbohydrates: 49g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Sodium: 19mg | Potassium: 171mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 252IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 26mg | Iron: 1mg

Tried this Recipe? Pin it for Later!
Mention @AmirasPantry or tag #AmirasPantry!