Authentic Mexican rice, also known as arroz rojo, is a staple in Mexican cuisine, often served alongside dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and grilled meats. This fluffy, flavorful side dish gets its vibrant red color from tomatoes and is seasoned with garlic, onions, and spices to create a rich, savory taste. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make traditional Mexican rice at home, achieving restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients:
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 cup tomato sauce (or pureed tomatoes)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp chili powder (optional for extra heat)
- 1 cup peas and carrots (optional, for added texture and color)
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro (chopped)
- Lime wedges
Preparation
Rinse the Rice
- Place the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch, helping the rice cook up light and fluffy.
Sauté the Rice
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and cook, stirring frequently, for 5-7 minutes until it turns golden brown.
Add Aromatics
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
Incorporate Tomato Sauce and Broth
- Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth. Stir in cumin, salt, and chili powder (if using). Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Simmer the Rice
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, and let the rice simmer for 18-20 minutes without lifting the lid.
Add Vegetables (Optional)
- If using peas and carrots, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking to heat through without becoming mushy.
Fluff and Serve
- Turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime if desired.
Variations
- Spicy Mexican Rice: Add a diced jalapeño or serrano pepper when sautéing the onions for extra heat.
- Tomato-Free Version: Substitute tomato sauce with vegetable broth and a touch of saffron or turmeric for a different yet delicious flavor profile.
- Vegan-Friendly: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth, and skip any dairy-based garnishes.
Cooking Notes
- Prevent Sticky Rice: Be sure to rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch.
- Perfect Liquid Ratio: For every cup of rice, use a 1:1 ratio of liquid and tomato sauce for the best texture.
- Keep the Lid On: Avoid lifting the lid while the rice cooks to prevent steam from escaping.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this authentic Mexican rice with grilled chicken, beef tacos, or vegetarian enchiladas.
- Serve it alongside refried beans and a simple green salad for a complete Mexican-inspired meal.
- Use it as a filling for burritos or a base for rice bowls topped with guacamole and salsa.
Tips
- Double the Batch: This rice reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep.
- Storage: Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat with Moisture: Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to keep the rice moist and fluffy.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 220
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 6g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fiber: 2g
FAQs
What type of rice is best for Mexican rice?
Long-grain white rice is traditionally used because it stays fluffy and separate during cooking.
Can I make Mexican rice in advance?
Yes! Mexican rice can be made ahead of time and reheated. Just add a bit of broth or water to prevent it from drying out.
Why is my rice mushy?
Mushy rice can result from using too much liquid or not rinsing the rice beforehand. Stick to the recommended liquid ratio and rinse thoroughly for the best results.
Conclusion
Mastering authentic Mexican rice is easier than you think. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you can bring a taste of Mexico to your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for a fiesta or a casual weeknight meal, this delicious side dish will become a go-to in your recipe collection.