Arroz Rojo (Mexican Red Rice)

Arroz rojo, also known as Mexican red rice, is a versatile side dish that can easily take the spotlight as a main dish. Its simplicity and rich flavor make it a favorite among many.

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What Is Arroz Rojo?

The term “arroz rojo” translates to “red rice,” a classic in Mexican cuisine loved by families. This recipe elevates basic ingredients like rice, tomato puree, and vegetables into a colorful and flavorful side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.

The vibrant color of this dish comes from the tomato puree, while the delicious flavor is enhanced by onions, garlic, cumin, and paprika.

Whether served alongside grilled meats, as part of a vegetarian spread, or as a hearty base for a burrito bowl, arroz rojo is a versatile addition to any meal, not limited to Mexican cuisine.

👉 If you’re craving more dinner recipes, be sure to try out my beef carne picada, Mexican chicken schnitzel, spiced Mexican tuna steak, or black beans, corn, and avocado salad. You can also find some delicious Mexican appetizers here.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare the arroz rojo recipe:

• Rice: Long-grain white rice is recommended for its fluffy texture and ability to absorb the flavors of tomato puree and spices.
• Flavor base: Olive oil adds richness, while garlic, onion, and carrots provide depth and sweetness.
• Spice it up: Cumin, paprika, black pepper, and jalapeño offer warmth and complexity, allowing you to adjust the heat level to your liking.
• Vegetable broth: Use vegetable or chicken broth for added flavor and depth.

You can customize the recipe based on your preferences and dietary requirements by adding extra vegetables, corn, beans, or peas.

How To Make Arroz Rojo

• Prepare the rice: Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch for a fluffy texture.
• Sauté the base: Cook onion, garlic, and rice in olive oil until the rice is golden and onions are translucent.
• Add vegetables: Mix in tomato puree, carrots, and salt, and cook to enhance flavors.
• Simmer the flavors: Add vegetable broth, spices, and jalapeño, simmer until rice absorbs flavors and becomes tender.
• Rest and serve: Let the rice rest, fluff with a fork, garnish with cilantro, and serve hot.

Recipe Tips

• Adjust jalapeño pepper for preferred spiciness.
• You can use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth.
• Feel free to add more vegetables for extra flavor and texture.
• This recipe can be scaled up or down as needed.
• Rinse rice before cooking for fluffier grains.
• Use a covered skillet for even cooking.
• Let the rice rest after cooking to meld flavors.
• Adjust seasonings to taste.

Serving Suggestions

Arroz rojo pairs well with grilled meats, braised stews, roasted vegetables, Mexican-inspired dishes, or tacos. It’s also great in tacos or as a base for a Tex-Mex bowl.

Leftover Mexican rice can be enjoyed with a fried egg and salsa for breakfast.

More Rice Recipes

Full Recipe

Discover the complete list of ingredients, instructions, and nutritional information below. If you try this recipe, let me know in the comments and be sure to rate it for others to enjoy.