Flavorful Mexican Red Rice Recipe for a Fiesta Delight

Mexican Red Rice is a vibrant and flavorful dish that dances on your taste buds with every bite. With its rich, tomato-infused aroma and the delightful crunch of vegetables, this dish promises to transport you straight to a sun-soaked fiesta in your kitchen. Just imagine the warmth of spices swirling around, making your senses tingle with anticipation.

Every family has that one dish that evokes fond memories—Mexican Red Rice is mine. My abuela would whip up a big pot of it every Sunday, filling the house with an irresistible fragrance. It was always served alongside her legendary tacos, creating a symphony of flavors that had us coming back for seconds (or thirds). Perfect for any gathering or just a cozy night in, this rice is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare.

Ingredients for Mexican Red Rice

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Long-Grain Rice: I recommend using long-grain white rice for fluffy texture; it’s perfect for absorbing all those spices.
• Tomato Sauce: Choose a good-quality tomato sauce or homemade version for rich flavor.
• Vegetable Broth: Using broth instead of water enhances the flavor profile immensely.
• Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth to the dish; finely chop it for even cooking.
• Garlic: Minced garlic brings an aromatic kick; use fresh garlic for maximum flavor.
• Bell Peppers: Any color works here—red, green, or yellow—add them diced for crunch and sweetness.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives a burst of freshness; feel free to add as much as you like!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Mexican Red Rice

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Rinse the Rice

Start by rinsing one cup of long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step helps remove excess starch and keeps your rice fluffy.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pan over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and toss in one chopped onion and two minced garlic cloves. Sauté them until they become translucent and fragrant—about three minutes.

Step 3: Add the Peppers

Next, stir in one diced bell pepper and cook for another two minutes until slightly softened. The colors will start to look beautiful already!

Step 4: Mix in Tomato Sauce

Pour in one cup of tomato sauce along with one cup of vegetable broth into the pan. Stir everything together until combined; the aroma will have you drooling!

Step 5: Cook the Rice

Add the rinsed rice to the mixture. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover with a lid. Let it simmer gently for about fifteen minutes or until all liquid is absorbed.

Step 6: Finish with Cilantro

Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and stir in freshly chopped cilantro. This final touch adds brightness that elevates every bite.

Transfer to plates and serve alongside your favorite protein or enjoy as is for a delightful vegetarian feast! Enjoy this flavorful journey into Mexican cuisine!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by rinsing the rice until the water runs clear. Sauté onions and garlic in oil, then add the rice to toast it lightly. Pour in broth and tomatoes, cover, and simmer until fluffy perfection.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out white rice for brown rice for extra health benefits. Add bell peppers or peas for color and sweetness. Spice it up with jalapeños or chipotle for a smoky kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Mexican Red Rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth to avoid dryness.

I remember the first time I made Mexican Red Rice for my family gathering. The looks on their faces when they took that first bite were priceless—pure joy, like I had just handed them gold!

FAQs:

What is Mexican Red Rice?

Mexican Red Rice, also known as Arroz Rojo, is a flavorful dish that features rice cooked with tomatoes, garlic, and spices. This vibrant side dish pairs well with many traditional Mexican meals. It typically includes ingredients like onion, bell pepper, and cumin for added depth. zesty watermelon salsa The rich red color comes from blending tomatoes into the cooking liquid. homemade watermelon sorbet chilled watermelon gazpacho watermelon feta skewers This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare and can be customized with various vegetables or proteins.

How do I make Mexican Red Rice?

To make Mexican Red Rice, start by rinsing the rice until the water runs clear. Sauté onions and garlic in oil until fragrant. Add blended tomatoes and cook until the mixture thickens. Stir in the rinsed rice, broth, and seasonings. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender and absorbs all the liquid. Fluff with a fork before serving to enhance its texture.

Can I use brown rice for Mexican Red Rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice instead of white for a healthier option in your Mexican Red Rice recipe. However, keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook due to its outer bran layer. Adjust your cooking time accordingly by increasing it to about 45-50 minutes. You may also need to add more liquid since brown rice absorbs more moisture than white rice does.

What dishes pair well with Mexican Red Rice?

Mexican Red Rice complements a variety of dishes perfectly. It works well as a side for grilled meats like chicken or beef fajitas. You can also serve it alongside tacos or enchiladas for a complete meal experience. Additionally, it pairs nicely with beans or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option, making it versatile enough for any dinner table. For more inspiration, check out this perfect side dishes recipe.

Conclusion for Mexican Red Rice:

In summary, Mexican Red Rice is a delightful and colorful dish that enhances any meal with its rich flavors and easy preparation method. By utilizing fresh ingredients like tomatoes and spices, you can create a satisfying side that complements various main courses beautifully. Whether you opt for white or brown rice, this recipe allows flexibility while remaining true to its traditional roots. Enjoy this vibrant dish at your next gathering or family dinner!

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Mexican Red Rice

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• Author: Hannah Reed
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Mexican Red Rice is a colorful, aromatic delight that brightens up any meal with its rich tomato flavor and crisp vegetables. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or festive occasions, serving as a delicious side dish or a satisfying vegetarian main. Whether paired with tacos or enjoyed on its own, each bite transports you to the heart of Mexico’s vibrant culinary scene.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

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Instructions

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a large pan over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until translucent (about 3 minutes).
3. Add the diced bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Stir in the tomato sauce and vegetable broth; mix well.
5. Add the rinsed rice, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until all liquid is absorbed.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in chopped cilantro before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 0mg