Authentic Mexican Rice (Arroz Rojo)
+10 photos

Authentic Mexican Rice (Arroz Rojo)

5 servings
A staple in Mexican cuisine, arroz rojo is typically made with long grain rice and gets it beautiful red color from fresh tomato juice.

Ingredients

  • Mahatma® Rice Extra Long Grain White Rice
    1 ½ c
  • neutral oil
    3 tbsp
  • onion

    diced

    ¼
  • garlic clove

    crushed

    1
  • Knorr chicken bouillon
    1 tbsp
  • garlic powder
    ½ tsp
  • roma tomatoes

    makes 8 oz tomato juice

    2
  • hot water
    2 c
  • salt (or
    ¼ tsp
  • cilantro
    3 sprig
  • jalapeno
    1

Directions

  1. 1

    Over medium heat, add the oil to a heavy-bottomed or good quality non-stick pan, then fry the onions and garlic

    Step 1
  2. 2

    When the onions and garlic have lightly browned, remove the garlic and set it aside.

    Step 2
  3. 3

    Add Mahatma® Rice Extra Long Grain White Rice to the pot and toast the rice in the oil, moving it constantly for about 5 minutes or until it becomes slightly puffy and golden brown.

    Step 3
  4. 4

    Add the Knorr chicken bouillon and garlic powder, the mix and continue toasting for another minute.

    Step 4
  5. 5

    Blend together the roma tomatoes and fried garlic clove. You should have about 8 oz (1 cup) of tomato sauce.

    Step 5
  6. 6

    Add it to the rice, stirring constantly for 30 seconds. The color should change to warm reddish orange color. At this point, watch the heat to make sure the bottom is not burning. Adjust the heat if you need to.

    Step 6
  7. 7

    Add the HOT water to the rice. It has to be hot- if the liquid isn't bubbling on the sides of the pot, your water is not hot enough. Stir in salt to taste at this point if you're adding. I recommend about 1/4 tsp.

    Step 7
  8. 8

    Add the cilantro and jalapeno on top, continue boiling over medium-low heat until some of the water has evaporated. Then turn the heat to the low and cover for 20 minutes. Do NOT lift the lid!

    Step 8
  9. 9

    After 20 minutes, turn off the heat and fluff the rice with a fork. There will be a thin layer of tomato sauce at the top- that is what we want. Just gently fluff & mix it into the rice to distribute evenly.

    Step 9
  10. 10

    At this point, the rice is ready if you don't like overly soft rice. This is good for me, but if you want it more soft & fluffy, cover for another 10 minutes (no heat).

    Step 10
Authentic Mexican Rice (Arroz Rojo)
+10

Authentic Mexican Rice (Arroz Rojo)

35 min5 servings

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About this Recipe

Authentic Mexican Rice (Arroz Rojo)

Discover the vibrant flavors of a true Mexican kitchen with this Authentic Mexican Rice, also famously known as Arroz Rojo or Sopa de Arroz. This staple side dish is renowned for its beautiful, appetizing red hue and incredibly savory taste, making it the perfect companion to almost any Mexican meal. Forget bland rice; this recipe brings a rich depth that will elevate your dining experience!

What makes this Arroz Rojo so special? It's all in the details! We start by toasting long-grain Mahatma® Rice to perfection, giving it a delightful texture and nutty aroma before it absorbs all the wonderful flavors. The signature red color comes from fresh Roma tomatoes, blended into a flavorful juice that infuses every grain. Coupled with aromatic onion, garlic, and Knorr chicken bouillon, each spoonful is a testament to traditional Mexican cooking. The addition of fresh cilantro and a whole jalapeño (for flavor, not necessarily heat!) adds a final layer of authentic zest.

Tips for Perfect Arroz Rojo

  • Toast Your Rice: Don't skip browning the rice in oil. This crucial step helps each grain maintain its shape and prevents stickiness, contributing to that perfect fluffy texture.
  • Fresh Tomato Power: Using fresh Roma tomatoes for your tomato juice yields the brightest color and freshest flavor. It’s a game-changer compared to canned alternatives.
  • Flavor Boost: Chicken bouillon is a secret weapon in many Mexican kitchens, adding a profound savory depth to the rice that you won't want to miss.
  • Spice & Herb Infusion: Adding a whole jalapeño while the rice cooks allows its flavor to permeate without making the dish overly spicy. The fresh cilantro sprigs release their aromatic oils, adding a burst of freshness.

Serving Suggestions & Variations

Authentic Mexican Rice is incredibly versatile. It's the quintessential side for tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, or grilled meats and fish. You can also turn it into a more substantial dish by stirring in some cooked vegetables like green peas, diced carrots, or corn during the last few minutes of cooking. Enjoy this culinary delight that brings the warmth and tradition of Mexico right to your table!

Frequently Asked Questions