Mexican rice, also known as “arroz rojo,” is a beloved side dish that accompanies a variety of dishes from tacos to enchiladas.
Its vibrant color, tantalizing aroma, and comforting texture make it a perfect addition to any meal. This recipe brings the authentic taste of Mexico right to your kitchen with easy-to-follow steps and ingredients that are likely already in your pantry.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tomato, diced (or ½ cup tomato sauce)
- 1 ¾ cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced (optional, for added color and crunch)
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional, for a pop of green)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Mexican Rice:
1. Prepare the Rice: Start by rinsing the rice under cold water to remove excess starch. This step helps prevent the rice from becoming overly sticky when cooked. Drain well and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent. The aroma will begin to fill your kitchen, adding a rich base of flavor to the rice. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently, until the garlic becomes fragrant.
3. Toast the Rice: Next, add the rinsed rice to the pan and stir it into the onions and garlic. Cook the rice for 4-5 minutes, stirring constantly. The goal is to lightly toast the rice, which will give it a nutty flavor and prevent it from becoming mushy later. You’ll notice the rice turning slightly golden as it toasts – this is the magic!
4. Add the Tomatoes and Spices: Once the rice is nicely toasted, it’s time to add the tomatoes. If you’re using fresh tomatoes, dice them finely and add them to the skillet. Stir to combine. If you’re using tomato sauce, just pour it in and mix well. Next, add the cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. These spices bring that quintessential Mexican flavor to the dish – warm, smoky, and just the right amount of heat. Stir everything together to coat the rice evenly in the spices.
5. Pour in the Broth: Now it’s time to add the liquid. Pour the chicken broth (or vegetable broth) into the pan, ensuring that the rice is well covered. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and let the rice simmer for about 15-20 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb all the wonderful flavors and the broth will cook it perfectly.
6. Optional Vegetables: For added texture and color, stir in the diced carrots and frozen peas about 5 minutes before the rice is done cooking. These veggies not only make the dish more colorful, but they also add a subtle sweetness and crunch that perfectly complement the rice’s fluffy texture.
7. Fluff the Rice: Once the rice has absorbed all the liquid and is tender, remove the pan from the heat. Let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Finally, use a fork to fluff the rice gently. This will separate the grains and give the rice a light, airy texture.
8. Garnish and Serve: To finish, garnish your Mexican rice with a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro. This adds a fresh, zesty note that elevates the entire dish. Serve your rice as a side with tacos, burritos, grilled chicken, or even a simple salad.
Pro Tips:
- Rice Variety: While long-grain rice is ideal for Mexican rice, you can experiment with other types like jasmine or basmati for a unique twist.
- Tomato Paste: If you want a deeper tomato flavor, try adding a tablespoon of tomato paste along with the fresh tomatoes or tomato sauce.
- Heat Level: Adjust the chili powder and cumin according to your spice preference. For more heat, add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce.
- Make It a Main: You can turn this into a main dish by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or even beans for extra protein.
Why You’ll Love It:
Mexican rice isn’t just tasty; it’s incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a weekend BBQ, this flavorful side dish always steals the show. The savory combination of tomatoes, garlic, and spices creates an aromatic and satisfying dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Plus, it’s so simple to make, it’s perfect for both beginners and experienced home cooks alike.
So next time you’re in the mood for a fiesta of flavors, don’t forget to add this easy Mexican rice to your menu. It’s sure to become a family favorite!