Mexican Red Rice

Mexican Red Rice

4 servings
Fluffy, beautifully seasoned Mexican Red Rice (Arroz Rojo). With a whisper of coriander / cilantro flavour, this is tasty enough to eat plain. The key to fluffy rice is the right water to rice ratio, and don't use too much tomato paste otherwise the liquid gets too thick = gluggy rice. Makes just over 3 cups, once fluffed. Scale up recipe by using slider on Servings. See AUTHENTICITY note below. Recipe VIDEO below.

Ingredients

  • olive oil
    1 ½ tbsp
  • garlic cloves

    , minced

    2
  • white onion

    , finely chopped

    ½ small
  • long grain white rice)

    , uncooked (note 1

    1 c
  • chicken or vegetable broth)

    (note 2

    1 ¾ c
  • tomato paste
    2 ½ tbsp
  • salt
    ¼ tsp
  • serrano or jalapeno pepper)

    , whole (optional

    1
  • coriander / cilantro
    1 sprig
  • finely chopped coriander / cilantro leaves

Directions

  1. 1

    Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic, stir briefly, then add onion. Cook for 4 - 5 minutes until translucent (not browned / golden).

  2. 2

    Add rice, broth, salt and tomato paste. Stir until tomato paste is dissolved.

  3. 3

    Plonk in jalapeno and coriander. Cover, bring to simmer, then lower heat to low so the water is simmering gently.

  4. 4

    Cook for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed (tilt pot to check).

  5. 5

    Remove from heat, leave lid on and rest for 10 minutes (KEY STEP). The residual liquid on the surface of the rice will get absorbed and rice will go from sticky to fluffy.

  6. 6

    Fluff with fork then serve! (Optional: garnish with extra coriander)

Mexican Red Rice

Mexican Red Rice

18 min4 servings247 cal

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About this Recipe

Craving a vibrant, flavorful side dish that transports you straight to a bustling Mexican kitchen? This recipe for fluffy, authentic Mexican Red Rice, or Arroz Rojo, is exactly what you need. It delivers beautifully seasoned grains with a subtle whisper of fresh coriander, creating a dish so tasty you'll want to eat it plain. This recipe is designed to be approachable yet yield professional results.

Why This Mexican Red Rice Works

The secret to achieving perfectly fluffy Mexican Red Rice lies in two critical elements: the precise broth-to-rice ratio and carefully managing the amount of tomato paste. Unlike other recipes that can result in mushy or gluggy rice, this approach ensures each grain remains distinct and tender. By avoiding excessive tomato paste, the liquid maintains the ideal consistency for even absorption, leading to that coveted light and airy texture.

What to Expect

Prepare for an aromatic and visually stunning side that's bursting with savory depth. You'll enjoy a fluffy, perfectly cooked rice infused with the rich flavors of garlic, onion, and a vibrant tomato base. The dish has a beautiful reddish hue, and a fresh, herbaceous note from the coriander that brightens every spoonful. It's a comforting and satisfying experience, designed to complement a wide range of main courses or shine as a star on its own.

Customization & Variations

Tailor your Arroz Rojo to suit your palate. For those who appreciate a gentle warmth, include the whole serrano or jalapeno pepper during cooking; it infuses flavor without overwhelming heat. You have the flexibility to use either chicken or vegetable broth, making it adaptable to different dietary preferences. Don't shy away from adding extra finely chopped coriander leaves as a garnish to enhance that fresh, bright finish.

Serving & Context

This versatile Mexican Red Rice is the ultimate companion to virtually any Mexican-inspired meal, from sizzling fajitas to savory enchiladas or simply grilled chicken. Its vibrant color and comforting, savory profile make it an ideal dish for family dinners, festive gatherings, or even a simple weeknight treat, always ready to impress.

Frequently Asked Questions